Trying New Behaviors in Hopes of Being Right
Dogs that are trained with positive reinforcement have a different way of thinking than dogs trained using correction based methods. This became very apparent to me when we trained Loker to “wave” his paw at us when we waved at him. Mainly, it was that dogs trained with positive reinforcement offer or try different behaviors…
Now, Instant, Immediate, Prompt, Instantaneous or Eventually
Why are prong collars and e-collars so popular despite the obvious physical and psychological harm they do to dogs? It’s because they give instant results. Unfortunately, positive reinforcement based training takes repetition for the dog to learn and change. Despite it’s proven long term effects on behavior, it doesn’t give the results as quickly as…
The Ethics of Training Methods
A friend recently asked me to read this article and give some thoughts on it: The Relativity of Pressure. Well, I had a “thought” for about every other sentence I read so I figured I’d turn it into a blog post! Here are my thoughts on the ethics of dog training methods: How should we…
Guest Post: Service Dog Training Transition
About a month ago I received an email from one of my readers that said I just wanted to thank you for this site. I am crossing over. I am blind and am on my third guide dog. I received my first two from a program. They were lovely dogs, but they taught using training…
Arousal Levels in Dogs
After a recent seminar by Suzanne Clothier, I’ve really been reflecting on how arousal plays a role in behavior. I had not really thought about it before. I have seen lots of people use play as a reward for correct behavior. Suzanne has really made me question my choice in raising arousal levels. One of…
How to Be a Pack Leader – The 21st Century Way!
I once believed I needed to be a pack leader. I was a huge fan of a certain Dog Whisperer and I was skilled at making many dogs listen to me. These days, though, I have a slightly different perspective on being a good pack leader. How to Be a Pack Leader Being a good…
Loose Leash Walking with a Ghost
I recently attended a weekend long seminar by Suzanne Clothier. She is so wise when it comes to understanding dogs and she is a strong believer in putting responsibility on the dog to work with you. This weekend I came to the realization that positive reinforcement training can become a crutch for some dogs. As…
What’s Behind Reactivity in Dogs?
I recently watched the beginning of Suzanne Clothier’s recorded seminar on Arousal, Anxiety, and Fear and am looking forward to attending her seminar in Grapevine, TX this weekend. I am already hooked after watching 30 minutes of the 2 hour lecture. Not only is she entertaining to watch, but she puts things into perspective so that any…