Dog Training

What is positive training? Does it mean its a good, affirmative, or constructive way to train? What about negative training? Is it bad for dogs?

After three days of being around the dogs of the Westminster Kennel Club Show, I have a new perspective on dog training and a challenge for dog owners.

Dog training doesn’t need to be complicated or frustrating if you understand the concepts of how a dog learns.  In fact, it can be rather enjoyable when you use common sense and follow the practice of consistency, repetition and timing when training your dog.

By providing problem-solving exercises every day, you give your dog the strength to restrain himself in situations where he otherwise would react.

As much as we feel our dogs are our family, they react and think differently than we do.  Here are some things to think about if you own a dog. By Laura Pakis, Certified Dog Trainer and Professional Blogger, Dogs see the world as black or white. You cannot reason with a dog Put words…

Your dog isn’t jumping on your friend because he’s afraid of the doorbell. Nor is he pulling you to the ground while lunging after the cat that just passed for the same reason. Your dog has no manners because you’ve allowed him to practice bad behavior time and time again with zero accountability.

What can you do about this? Learn how to use praise and proper correction.

The most rewarding part of being a dog owner is training your dog successfully. Training provides an excellent opportunity for you to bond with your dog and establish a good relationship with him or her. Young or old, big or small, it is important that you train your dog and help him learn at least a few basic commands.

Types of physical praise, OR how to pet your dog By Dog Blogger, Autumn For me, there’s nothing better than a bellyrub, but when using physical praise every dog has a certain type of touching they prefer.  Know there are several different forms that can be used and find out what works best for your…

Using physical praise is a great way to improve your bond with your dog

Be fair and firm, but always have fun when dog training By Laura Pakis, Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Blogger, continued… If you and your dog are not having fun then you may not be doing something right. Training should be taken seriously, but it should also be upbeat and energetic. Your dog will learn…

Dog training isn’t a trick, it’s a way of life By Laura Pakis, Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Blogger, continued… Your dog is always watching and learning. Make sure you are always enforcing and rewarding good behavior, while simultaneously discouraging unwanted behaviors.  The behaviors you want will become a way of life for your dog…

Simply saying, “Good dog,” in a monotone voice won’t cut it. Verbal praise should be upbeat and as full of emotion as you can muster.

Rewarding with Praise with help increase the bond you already have with your dog By Dog Blogger, Miss Moneypenny More than anything, we dogs like to be praised.  Endorphins are released when you touch or pet us. While I’m not one to pass on food treats (and maybe your dog is the same), it probably…

Just like you humans, dogs learn in a variety of ways.  But how exactly do dogs learn?

Just as you prepare for a day at a doggy daycare facility or the groomers, you have to prepare your pet for time with the trainer.

Dog training is not some sort of magic or hidden talent. It requires the right tools paired with someone who has the expertise to explain how to use them.

When it comes to dog obedience, practicing in the same place is fine when learning, but once the dog understands them, you have to incorporate distractions.

Dog leashes are essential not just because of their use in controlling your 4-footed best friend, but also because they are a vital training tool.

Are you as a dog owner clouded by the preconceived notion that certain training tools should never be used? You may need to change your perception

A properly timed reward can boost your dog’s confidence, and increase his trust in you By Laura Pakis, Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Blogger, Reward is an integral part of training, and there are many ways in which a dog can be rewarded.  While food or treats may seem like the easiest way to reward…

Training equipment is just that—equipment used for training. It is a tool and, as such, does not substitute in any way a trainer’s or owner’s ability to train.

Being off-leash isn’t a single thing: it’s you and your dog’s assessing situations. There is a partnership. Being off leash help dogs to think.

You haven’t given a command to your dog in months and now you’re wondering why he isn’t listening.   Owning a dog isn’t much fun when your dog listens poorly. It’s time for a Spring tune up.