Wednesday, September 16, 2009

When it's not fun

I got to start a new Charm class tonight - a class for not so nice dogs - and looking at these owners brought me back to when I was going through this with my own dog. Sand is a not so nice dog. I was the hated person in the neighborhood. Seemingly the only person in the world with an aggressive Lab. I turned to techniques that killed my relationship. My dog was a puddle at my feet and I was heartbroken. After this I committed myself to turning our training and relationship around. I got to see this tonight in one student. I got to see someone take the first step toward crossing over from force and pain. Training should be fun for both parties. Training should open doors to a fulling relationship. Next time you feel like resorting to force, look into your dog's eyes.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Tricks for dogs

Trick training may seem a bit dumb and insignificant, but in fact they can be vital to developing a well rounded dog. Tricks promote problem solving for both dog and handler. You are also broadening your dog's vocabulary. When thinking of tricks to teach, start easy and pick something that your dog does naturally. For example if your dog likes to paw at things, begin with High 5, Wave, or Shake. Some tricks build naturally build on each other, such as a retrieve can be turned into putting toys away or closing a door. Here's an example of Kayla showing off her hold.







What can your dog do?