Tips & Quips
Managing the Bark: Effective Dog Training Strategies for Incessant Dog Barking with a Dog Trainer
Incessant dog barking can be frustrating, but with the right dog training approach, you and your dog can find peace. A professional dog trainer can help you identify the root cause of the barking and develop a customized dog training plan to address it. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of dog training in stopping incessant dog barking and how a dog trainer can guide you.
Understanding Dog Barking
Dogs bark for various reasons, including alerting, anxiety, or attention-seeking. Dog training is crucial in teaching your dog when it’s okay to bark and when to be quiet. A dog trainer will help you understand your dog’s barking triggers and develop a dog training strategy.
Dog Training Techniques for Barking
1. “Quiet” Command: Teach your dog the “quiet” command using positive reinforcement dog training methods.
2. Redirect Attention: Redirect your dog’s attention away from barking triggers, a key aspect of dog training.
3. Desensitize: Desensitize your dog to triggers, gradually increasing exposure, a technique used in dog training.
The Role of a Dog Trainer
A dog trainer specializes in dog training and behavior modification. They’ll assess your dog’s barking, identify triggers, and develop a dog training plan. A dog trainer will guide you through dog training exercises and provide feedback.
Benefits of Dog Training with a Dog Trainer
1. Customized Dog Training Plan: A dog trainer creates a plan tailored to your dog’s needs.
2. Expert Guidance: A dog trainer provides expert dog training guidance and support.
3. Faster Results: Dog training with a dog trainer yields faster results than going solo.
What to Expect from Dog Training
1. Assessment: A dog trainer assesses your dog’s barking and develops a plan.
2. Training Sessions: Regular dog training sessions with a dog trainer.
3. Homework: A dog trainer provides dog training exercises to practice at home.
Finding the Right Dog Trainer
When searching for a dog trainer, look for:
1. Experience: Experience in dog training and barking issues.
2. Certifications: Certifications from reputable dog training organizations.
3. Positive Methods: Positive, reward-based dog training methods.
Conclusion
Incessant dog barking is a common issue, but with dog training and a dog trainer, you can address it effectively. By understanding your dog’s barking and using dog training techniques, you’ll enjoy a more peaceful life with your furry friend.
✅ Dog training is key to stopping incessant dog barking.
✅ A dog trainer helps identify barking triggers and develops a dog training plan.
✅ Positive reinforcement is a crucial aspect of dog training.
✅ Dog training with a dog trainer yields faster results.
✅ Consistency is essential in dog training for barking issues.
The Importance of Dog Socialisation: Why a Group Dog Training Class is a Must with a Dog Trainer
Dog socialisation is a critical aspect of dog training, and enrolling your dog in a group dog training class with a dog trainer is one of the best ways to ensure your furry friend becomes a confident and well-adjusted member of society. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of group dog training classes and how a dog trainer can help you and your dog get the most out of this experience.
What is Dog Socialisation?
Dog socialisation is the process of exposing your dog to various environments, people, and other dogs to help them develop good social skills and reduce anxiety. A group dog training class provides the perfect setting for dog socialisation, allowing your dog to interact with other dogs and people in a controlled environment.
Benefits of a Group Dog Training Class
1. Socialisation Opportunities: A group dog training class offers ample opportunities for your dog to socialise with other dogs, people, and environments.
2. Learning from a Dog Trainer: A dog trainer leads the group dog training class, providing expert guidance and instruction on dog training techniques.
3. Supportive Environment: A group dog training class provides a supportive environment where you and your dog can learn and grow together.
What to Expect from a Group Dog Training Class
1. Structured Lessons: A dog trainer will lead structured lessons, focusing on specific dog training topics, such as basic obedience or socialisation.
2. Group Activities: Group dog training classes often include group activities, such as games and exercises, designed to promote socialisation and teamwork.
3. Feedback from a Dog Trainer: A dog trainer will provide feedback and guidance, helping you and your dog improve your skills and address any issues.
Why a Dog Trainer is Essential
1. Expert Guidance: A dog trainer has the expertise and experience to lead a group dog training class and provide individualised feedback.
2. Customised Approach: A dog trainer can tailor the group dog training class to meet the needs of you and your dog.
3. Support and Encouragement: A dog trainer provides ongoing support and encouragement, helping you and your dog stay motivated and engaged.
Tips for Getting the Most out of a Group Dog Training Class
1. Be Consistent: Regular attendance is crucial in a group dog training class.
2. Practice at Home: Practice the skills and techniques learned in the group dog training class at home.
3. Be Patient: Dog training takes time and patience, so be patient with your dog and yourself.
Conclusion
Enrolling your dog in a group dog training class with a dog trainer is an excellent way to provide them with the socialisation and training they need to thrive. With the guidance of a dog trainer, you and your dog can learn and grow together, developing a strong and loving bond.
✅ A group dog training class is an excellent way to socialise your dog.
✅ A dog trainer provides expert guidance and instruction in a group dog training class.
✅ Consistency and practice are key to getting the most out of a group dog training class.
✅ A group dog training class provides a supportive environment for you and your dog to learn and grow.
✅ A dog trainer can help you address any issues or concerns in a group dog training class.
Overcoming Dog Separation Anxiety: A Guide to Dog Training with a Dog Trainer
Dog training is crucial in addressing dog separation anxiety, a common issue affecting many dog owners. A professional dog trainer can help you develop a customized dog training plan to alleviate your dog’s distress and anxiety when left alone. In this article, we’ll explore the role of dog training and a dog trainer in overcoming dog separation anxiety.
Understanding Dog Separation Anxiety
Dog separation anxiety is a condition where dogs exhibit distress and anxiety when separated from their owners. Symptoms include barking, howling, chewing, and pacing. Dog training is essential in addressing these behaviors and helping your dog feel more secure.
The Role of a Dog Trainer
A dog trainer specializes in dog training and behavior modification. They can help you identify the root cause of your dog’s separation anxiety and develop a dog training plan to address it. A dog trainer will work with you to teach your dog to cope with separation and reduce anxiety.
Dog Training Techniques for Separation Anxiety
1. Gradual Separation: A dog trainer will teach you to gradually increase separation time, starting with short periods.
2. Desensitization: Dog training involves desensitizing your dog to departure cues, such as putting on shoes or grabbing keys.
3. Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog for calm behavior during separation, a key aspect of dog training.
The Importance of Dog Training Consistency
Consistency is key in dog training, especially when addressing separation anxiety. A dog trainer will emphasize the importance of sticking to a routine and providing a stable environment.
Benefits of Working with a Dog Trainer
1. Customized Dog Training Plan: A dog trainer will develop a plan tailored to your dog’s needs.
2. Expert Guidance: A dog trainer provides expert guidance on dog training techniques and behavior modification.
3. Reduced Anxiety: Dog training with a dog trainer can significantly reduce your dog’s separation anxiety.
What to Expect from Dog Training
1. Assessment: A dog trainer will assess your dog’s behavior and develop a plan.
2. Training Sessions: Regular dog training sessions with a dog trainer will help you progress.
3. Homework: A dog trainer will provide exercises to practice at home.
Finding the Right Dog Trainer
When searching for a dog trainer, look for:
1. Experience: Experience in dog training and separation anxiety.
2. Certifications: Certifications from reputable organizations.
3. Positive Methods: Positive, reward-based dog training methods.
Conclusion
Dog training is essential in addressing dog separation anxiety. A professional dog trainer can help you develop a customized plan to alleviate your dog’s distress. With patience, consistency, and dog training, you can help your dog feel more secure and reduce separation anxiety.
✅ Dog training is crucial in addressing dog separation anxiety.
✅ A dog trainer can help develop a customized dog training plan.
✅ Consistency is key in dog training for separation anxiety.
✅ Dog training with a dog trainer reduces anxiety and improves behavior.
✅ Positive reinforcement is a key aspect of dog training.
The Role of a Dog Trainer: Unlocking Your Dog's Full Potential
A dog trainer is a professional who specializes in teaching dogs new behaviors and correcting unwanted ones. A skilled dog trainer can help you build a strong bond with your dog, improve their behavior, and enhance their overall well-being. In this article, we’ll explore the role of a dog trainer and how they can help you and your furry friend.
What Does a Dog Trainer Do?
A dog trainer works with dogs of all ages and breeds, teaching them basic obedience commands, addressing behavioral issues, and helping them overcome fears and anxieties. A dog trainer can also provide guidance on dog behavior, offer advice on training techniques, and help you develop a customized training plan tailored to your dog’s needs.
Types of Dog Trainers
1. Professional Dog Trainer: A professional dog trainer has extensive experience and training in dog behavior and psychology. They often work with dogs in a variety of settings, including private homes, training facilities, and group classes.
2. Certified Dog Trainer: A certified dog trainer has passed a certification exam and demonstrated a level of competence in dog training. Look for certifications from reputable organizations such as the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) or the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).
3. Behavioral Dog Trainer: A behavioral dog trainer specializes in addressing specific behavioral issues, such as aggression or separation anxiety.
What to Expect from a Dog Trainer
A good dog trainer will:
1. Assess Your Dog: Evaluate your dog’s behavior, temperament, and learning style to develop a customized training plan.
2. Teach You Training Techniques: Show you how to teach your dog new behaviors and address unwanted ones.
3. Provide Ongoing Support: Offer ongoing support and guidance to help you overcome challenges and achieve your training goals.
Benefits of Working with a Dog Trainer
1. Improved Behavior: A dog trainer can help address behavioral issues, such as barking, chewing, or digging.
2. Strengthened Bond: Working with a dog trainer can strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
3. Increased Confidence: A dog trainer can help you develop the skills and confidence you need to train your dog effectively.
Finding the Right Dog Trainer
When searching for a dog trainer, look for:
1. Experience: Look for a dog trainer with experience working with dogs like yours.
2. Certifications: Check for certifications from reputable organizations.
3. Positive Methods: Ensure the dog trainer uses positive, reward-based training methods.
Conclusion
A dog trainer can be a valuable resource for dog owners looking to improve their dog’s behavior and strengthen their bond. By working with a skilled dog trainer, you can unlock your dog’s full potential and enjoy a more harmonious relationship. So, if you’re struggling with your dog’s behavior or want to take their training to the next level, consider consulting a professional dog trainer.
✅ A dog trainer can help you build a strong bond with your dog.
✅ Look for a dog trainer with experience and certifications.
✅ A dog trainer can help address behavioral issues and improve your dog’s behavior.
✅ Working with a dog trainer can increase your confidence as a dog owner.
✅ A dog trainer can provide ongoing support and guidance to help you achieve your training goals.
Are you ready to take this journey with your dog together with our expertise and experience and live happily ever after ? Sign Up now!
Puppy Toilet Training 101: A Guide to Housebreaking Your Puppy
Puppy toilet training is a crucial part of housebreaking your puppy, and with the right approach, you can successfully teach your puppy to use the toilet in no time. Effective puppy toilet training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of puppy toilet training, providing you with expert tips and techniques to make puppy toilet training a breeze.
Understanding Puppy Toilet Training
Puppy toilet training is the process of teaching your puppy to use a designated area for toileting, such as a puppy pad or outside in the yard. Successful puppy toilet training requires establishing a routine and sticking to it. By using positive reinforcement and consistency, you can encourage good toileting habits and discourage accidents.
Getting Started with Puppy Toilet Training
Before you start puppy toilet training, make sure you have the right equipment, including puppy pads or a designated toileting area. Establish a routine for feeding, exercise, and playtime to help your puppy learn when it’s time to toilet. Puppy toilet training is all about timing, so pay attention to your puppy’s natural toileting schedule.
Key Puppy Toilet Training Principles
1. Consistency: Consistency is key in puppy toilet training. Use the same commands and take your puppy to the same spot each time.
2. Positive Reinforcement: Reward your puppy with treats, praise, and affection when they use the toilet correctly.
3. Watch for Signs: Watch for signs that your puppy needs to toilet, such as sniffing or circling.
Puppy Toilet Training Techniques
1. Take Your Puppy Out Frequently: Take your puppy to the designated toileting area immediately after meals, naps, and playtime. Follow the 5-4-3 progression
2. Use a Designated Command: Use a specific command, such as “go potty” or “do your business,” to help your puppy associate the command with the action.
3. Praise and Reward: Praise and reward your puppy when they use the toilet correctly, and clean up accidents without punishing your puppy.
Common Puppy Toilet Training Mistakes
1. Inconsistent Schedules: Inconsistent schedules can confuse your puppy and hinder puppy toilet training progress.
2. Punishing Accidents: Punishing accidents can create negative associations with puppy toilet training and make the process more challenging.
3. Not Supervising: Not supervising your puppy can lead to accidents and undermine puppy toilet training efforts.
Tips for Successful Puppy Toilet Training
1. Be Patient: Puppy toilet training takes time and effort, so be patient with your puppy.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is key to successful puppy toilet training.
3. Stay Consistent: Consistency is crucial in puppy toilet training, so stick to your routine and schedule.
The Benefits of Puppy Toilet Training
Puppy toilet training not only teaches your puppy good toileting habits but also strengthens your bond with them. By investing time and effort into puppy toilet training, you’ll enjoy a more harmonious and fulfilling relationship with your furry friend.
Conclusion
Puppy toilet training is a rewarding experience that requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to successful puppy toilet training. So, start your puppy toilet training journey today and enjoy the benefits of a well-housebroken puppy!
✅ Puppy toilet training is a crucial part of housebreaking your puppy.
✅ Consistency and patience are key to successful puppy toilet training.
✅ Positive reinforcement is the most effective puppy toilet training method.
✅ Puppy toilet training strengthens the bond between you and your puppy.
✅ With puppy toilet training, you can enjoy a more harmonious relationship with your furry friend.
Start that beautiful relationship with your dog on the right note by toilet training your puppy well! Sign Up here!
Dog Training 101: Mastering the Art of Walking Your Dog
Dog training is an essential part of responsible pet ownership, and one of the most important aspects of dog training is teaching your dog to walk properly on a leash. Effective dog training can make all the difference in ensuring a enjoyable and stress-free walk with your furry friend. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of dog training specifically focused on walking your dog, providing you with expert tips and techniques to make dog training a breeze.
Understanding Dog Training for Walking
Dog training for walking is all about teaching your dog to respond to commands and behave calmly beside you on a leash. With consistent dog training, you can encourage good walking habits and discourage pulling, tugging, and other unwanted behaviors. Dog training is key to a harmonious walk with your dog.
Getting Started with Dog Training for Walking
Before you start dog training, make sure you have the right equipment, including a comfortable collar and a sturdy leash. Begin dog training in a quiet area with minimal distractions, and start with short sessions of 5-10 minutes. Dog training is all about gradual progression, so start slow and build up your dog’s endurance.
Key Dog Training Principles for Walking
1. Consistency: Consistency is key in dog training. Use the same commands and hand signals each time you train your dog.
2. Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with praise and affection when they walk beside you without pulling.
3. Patience: Dog training takes time and effort. Be patient with your dog and remember that accidents will happen.
Dog Training Techniques for Walking
1. Structured Walking: Set aside 15 minutes daily in a quiet area and start walking with your dog beside you at a slow pace without stopping.
2. Communication Layer : Set this up with the THASA technique to establish a channel for communication so your dog will want to follow you
3. Protection Layer : Set this up so your dog will not have any reactivity to any triggers encountered on the walk
Common Dog Training Mistakes
1. Inconsistent Commands: Inconsistent commands and rewards can confuse your dog and hinder the dog training process.
2. Pulling on the Leash: Pulling on the leash can create a tug-of-war, making dog training more challenging.
3. Not Enough Exercise: Dogs need physical and mental stimulation. Ensure your dog is getting enough exercise and playtime to support dog training.
Advanced Dog Training for Walking
Once your dog has mastered basic walking, you can move on to advanced dog training techniques like heel training, navigating obstacles, and walking in crowded areas. Dog training is a lifelong process, and there’s always room for improvement.
The Benefits of Dog Training for Walking
Dog training for walking not only improves your dog’s behavior but also strengthens your bond with them. By investing time and effort into dog training, you’ll enjoy a more harmonious and fulfilling relationship with your furry friend. Dog training is a rewarding experience that benefits both you and your dog.
Conclusion
Dog training is an essential part of walking your dog, and with the right techniques and consistency, you can teach your dog to walk properly on a leash. By incorporating dog training into your daily routine, you’ll enjoy a more enjoyable and stress-free walk with your furry friend. So, start your dog training journey today and experience the benefits of a well-behaved walking companion!
✅ Dog training is key to a harmonious walk with your dog.
✅ Consistency and patience are crucial in dog training.
✅ Positive reinforcement is the most effective dog training method.
✅ Dog training strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
✅ With dog training, you can enjoy a more enjoyable walk with your furry friend.
Want to start having that beautiful experience of enjoying your walk with your furry friend ? Sign Up here!
The Ultimate Guide to Dog Training : Teaching Your Furry Friend to be Obedient
Dog training is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. Not only does it help strengthen the bond between you and your dog, but it also ensures their safety and well-being. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of dog training, providing you with expert tips and techniques to train your dog to be obedient.
Understanding Dog Training
Dog training is the process of teaching your dog to respond to commands and behave in a desired manner. Effective dog training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By using reward-based dog training methods, you can encourage good behavior and discourage bad habits.
Getting Started with Dog Training
Before diving into dog training, it’s essential to establish a routine. Set aside dedicated time each day for dog training sessions, ideally 10-15 minutes per session. Start with simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” and gradually increase the complexity as your dog becomes more obedient.
Key Dog Training Principles
1. Consistency: Consistency is key in dog training. Use the same commands and hand signals each time you train your dog.
2. Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats, praise, and affection when they respond correctly to a command.
3. Patience: Dog training takes time and effort. Be patient with your dog and remember that accidents will happen.
Dog Training Techniques
1. Leash Training: Teach your dog to walk beside you on a leash without pulling.
2. Housebreaking: Establish a routine for feeding, exercise, and potty breaks to help your dog learn to hold their bladder.
Common Dog Training Mistakes
1. Inconsistency: Inconsistent commands and rewards can confuse your dog and hinder the training process.
2. Punishment: Punishing your dog for misbehaving can lead to fear and aggression.
3. Lack of Exercise: Dogs need physical and mental stimulation. Ensure your dog is getting enough exercise and playtime.
Advanced Dog Training
Once your dog has mastered basic commands, you can move on to advanced dog training techniques like agility training, trick training, and obedience competitions.
The Benefits of Dog Training
Dog training not only improves your dog’s behavior but also strengthens your bond with them. By investing time and effort into dog training, you’ll enjoy a more harmonious and fulfilling relationship with your furry friend.
Conclusion
Dog training is a rewarding experience that requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to raising a well-behaved and obedient dog. So, start your dog training journey today and enjoy the benefits of a lifelong companionship with your furry friend!
✅ Dog training is an essential part of responsible pet ownership.
✅ Consistency and patience are key to successful dog training.
✅ Positive reinforcement is the most effective dog training method.
✅ Dog training strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
✅ With dog training, you can enjoy a more harmonious relationship with your furry friend.
By incorporating these dog training tips and techniques into your daily routine, you’ll be able to enjoy a more obedient and loving companion. So, what are you waiting for? Start your dog training journey today! Sign Up here!
Why is Dog Toilet Training so difficult ?
Training a puppy or a dog for toilet can take as little as 3 days but it can also take up to 3 months, it all depends on your puppy/dog’s frame of mind, his biological development and the approach that you take. Our method for puppy/dog potty training in Singapore does not use a CAGE or Potty Spray!
90% of the people who seek our help have been told by the sales person at the pet shop that it is ‘very easy’, buy a cage, stuff your puppy/dog in there and that’s all there is to it. Unfortunately it is not as easy as that. In fact some of these sales people do not even know how to toilet train a puppy/dog, they just want to make it simple to make the sale !
The pet shop/pet farm environment is also very different from your home environment in that the puppies/dogs are usually caged in a small space with hardly any space to move around.
This disastrous arrangement has the puppy eating, sleeping and defacting all in that small space which goes against their natural cleanliness instinct. The wire mesh or metal grating flooring also hurts their sensitive paw pads.
Caging your puppy in this way causes a lot of psychological damage as he has no direct interaction with their pack and builds up a lot of pent up energy, with the result that when he is released, he may ‘go crazy’ and ignorant owners then cage them up again adding to this vicious cycle. He may also be very reluctant to return to his cage of his own accord.
Dog Toilet training requires your dog to be first calm and focused so that he can learn faster and remember in Singapore. His biological development is also key here, so there are a number of factors which must be taken into account to successfully toilet train your dog.
At our clasess and consultations, we help you to build a solid foundation with your dog so that he becomes calm and focuses on you as the leader. We have a systematic approach to toilet training with progress indicators to monitor how well the puppy house training is progressing.
Using the right approach without resorting to harsh methods and with the proper guidance from our experienced trainers, toilet training need not be a nightmare of constant cleaning up of puddles of pee and poo, and once your puppy is properly toilet trained, you can then focus on the bonding aspect and experience the beautiful relationship between your puppy and yourself.
10 Common problems Dog Owners face & why
Take this simple test to assess if your dog needs obedience training
Will Your Dog Outgrow Its Bad Habits ?
Most people think that puppies will outgrow bad habits like biting and chewing things, rampant defecating, or incessant barking. The reality is that these bad habits if not corrected when young, will become ingrained behaviour which becomes harder to correct as time goes by.
What then can dog obedience training acheive ? It all depends on the depth and scope of the program. Good dog obedience training should go beyond basic obedience commands. Your dog can do a perfect sit but can still act like the hound from hell, so a good dog obedience training program must first and foremost consist of a solid pack leadership program that will provide the anchor and foundation of your relationship with your dog. At the Dog Listener Consultancy in Singapore, we implement a pack leadership program called Amichien Bonding founded by Jan Fennell. It is the most effective program available as it targets the instincts and natural learning processes of the dog, and as such no dog is too young or old to learn !
What types of Dog Training methods will suit your dog?
Dog psychology has advanced and evolved so much in the past decade that now the market is flooded with gadgets, gimmicks, and trainers all trumpeting that they can solve your hound from hell problems.
There are also many dubious and dodgy trainers around, as such, it is always wise to do your own research and get feedback first rather than depend on marketing hype or advertisements. There are also many local pet forums on the internet now that you can pose questions and get accurate feedback
At the end of the day, dog obedience training should be beneficial, both for your dog and yourself but with the overwhelming options out there, how do you know what is helpful for your dog and what is harmful ? We simplify and summarize the various types of training available on the market today and how they can harm or help your dog.
All methods have ultimate objectives which can be broadly categorized as such :
Control – The aim of such methods is basically to control your dog with pain.
If he doesn’t obey, he is punished with something painful or unpleasant that
he will remember and as such will not repeat such behaviour again.
Choker chains which can strangle, electric or stun collars which produce a strong current to ‘electrocute’, collars with sharp prongs or spikes which dig into a dog’s neck, and any kind of contraption that causes pain belong to this category. Methods like these can cause a low confidence, nervous or dominant dog to become worse as he can retaliate by barking or biting. They aim to rule and control by fear and submission.
Conditioning – Teaching by positive associations or rewards is the premise of these methods. By rewarding when your dog performs certain good behaviours, he will then be conditoned over time to know that when he does a certain action, he will receive a reward.
Some dogs are motivated by treats, some by play, some by attention. Dominant dogs will generally assess the benefits first and hence results are inconsistent.This is what people will term their dog ‘stubborn’ or ‘strong willed’ when they obey only when ‘they feel like it’
Cooperation & Communication – The philosphy behind this method is to be a natural leader. If your dog understands and respects you as his leader, he will naturally cooperate with you.
No gadgets and gimmicks are needed but rather the dog alludes to you. Dogs are pack animals by nature, and they have an effective social hierachy with an alpha leader leading the pack. If we can mimic this, then instinctively, he will accept you as his leader.
This is the premise of Amichien Bonding ™ a system developed by Jan Fennell in the UK, an internationally renowned dog behaviourist who had great success helping people overcome issues with their beloved dogs. Our programs are certified and Amichien Bonding ™ is taught in our classes and consultation.
Some dogs are motivated by treats, some by play, some by attention. Dominant dogs will generally assess the benefits first and hence with very good results, helping nervous dogs that bite to dominant dogs. This method provides the foundation of your leadership and relationship with your dog and with this firmly cemented, the other basic obedience methods very easily fall into place.
How can you tell if a Dog Trainer really knows his stuff?
Chances are if you are reading this article on finding the right dog trainer, you need some help with your dog. The first thing is to ask yourself why you are looking for dog obedience training, is it for :
Behavioural issues : Aggression, fussy eating, lack of focus, incessant barking, nipping, and more all of which has been going on for quite some time ?
Home Integration issues : Toilet training, biting/chewing of things, whining which is common when you have just got your dog or puppy
Enhancement of the Bond : Your dog does not have behavioural issues, but you are looking to deepen the bond or realize your dog’s potential, eg, through agility or performance programs or showing your dog
Now that you have the mindset to resolve your dog issues, it is important you choose the right dog trainer and dog training method, else psychological or physical harm may befall your dog, or you may not see any effective, long term results at all.
Based on your needs above, you then ask if the dog trainer you are assessing will meet your needs by using the Checklist below :
Expertise, Knowledge & Application of Training methods
Does the dog training school which the dog trainer come from have a long history and is it accredited ?
Does the school have publications like books, videos, TV presentations ?
Did the dog trainer obtain certification through a hands on program (vs distance learning) ?
Methods Used
Does the dog trainer only use positive methods of training, ie they are not harsh and do not cause any pain ?
Does he have various methods to treat different personailities going beyond basic obedience techniques ?
Does the dog trainer avoid the use of pain causing gadgets or gimmicks ?
Depth, Length of Experience & Understanding
Is the dog trainer actively teaching, training dogs of varied personailites on a day to day basis for at least 3 to 5 years ?
Did the dog trainer encounter difficult dogs on a regular basis and resolved issues permanently, verifiable with real life testimonies ?
Is the dog trainer able to profile your dog accurately and efficiently and explain the gist of his approach to solving the problems ?
It is only with the combination of the above 3 factors that a good dog trainer is able to first accurately and correctly profile the personaility of your dog, as dogs like humans, have varied and complex personalities, and may exhibit different behaviours in different situations. Only with enough depth of experience can a dog trainer truly understand why a dog does what he does, then correctly identify the root cause of the issues you face, and lastly with his vast knowledge of methods and expertise, tailor a program that will ensure your dog understands and accepts without fear or coersion.
It is also important to understand that the program must be carried out by you, as your dog alludes to you. The right dog trainer will patiently nurture both your dog and you, and effectively resolves the issues at the root cause level, with the end result being a deepening of an already beautiful relationship between you and your dog.
There is no one-solution-for-all-problems method and doing so may result in long term psychological damage to your dog. Eg, if your dog has a nervous personality, using harsh, pain causing methods will only make him more fearful and exhibit nervous aggression. And if your dog has a strong personality, trying to force him into submission with pain causing gadgets may rile him into challenging you, again with aggression.
If your answer is Yes to all the questions in the checklist, it is highly likely that this dog trainer will be the One. It is extremely important that you engage a dog trainer that firstly understands your dog well, and also your needs and personality to tailor a program that is practical, effective and efficient.
It is also important to understand that the program must be carried out by you, as your dog alludes to you. The right dog trainer will patiently nuture both your dog and you, and effectively resolves the issues at the root cause level, with the end result being a deepening of an already beautiful relationship between you and your dog.
Is Dog Training Necessary?
So after much thought and deliberation, you decided to take the plunge and got a puppy.
What next ? For some training the puppy or enrolling in puppy training classes may not be a priority as they think they can manage, what with the internet providing a treasure trove of information and knowledge
So is training a puppy really necessary and should it be done soonest ? Absolutely ! Here’s why :
Some think that training a puppy means the puppy will be under stress and feel it can be done later once the puppy “settles in”, but actually a good puppy training class will actually help your puppy settle in much faster and better !
Also there are some critical practical aspects of the training that needs to be done right from the start and one of them is the toilet training. If your puppy doesn’t learn this the right way, very soon you will be pulling your hair out and wanting to do the same to that puppy that has learnt to pee on your Persian carpet or does it so frequently around the house, that it’s like a literal rain on your parade.
Again some think that toilet training is easy, as the pet shop person will always say in his sales pitch : Just stick the puppy in the cage and the puppy toilet training will be done in a week !
Training a puppy takes a lot more than that, and toilet training is only 1 small aspect. Once the puppy gets used to the environment, the honeymoon period is over …
In the weeks to come, curiosity and courage will take over and with the teething stage kicking in, you will start to feel the bite of this when your household starts to get chewed up, from carpets to shoes to chair legs. Confining the puppy in the cage will result in a catastrophic explosion of energy when it is released only to wreck more damage!
And from there, that cute little one, once perceived and cute and adorable has turned into a little monster, tearing at your clothes, or chewing on your fleshy fingers like some barbecued chicken wing !
By then certain bad habits would have been ingrained and now more time and effort will be required to do a reboot of the mind.
So you see, a good puppy training class is really important and it is equally important to do it soonest as it establishes a common platform for both human and dog to start to have a good communication process. A proper program requires a structured approach, with clear progression of the objectives, starting from the home where the foundation needs to be anchored and then progressively moving to the big wide world.
With a good foundation established, you will then be able to truly appreciate and love your dog for all that he is, and with the knowledge to understand and manage all the issues that will come along the way just like a good parent !
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How is your class different from other trainers ?
Our classes and consultations consists of 3 aspects : Amichien Bonding, an essential pack leadership program, the Basic Obedience program, and a dog/puppy integration program. In essence you have a comprehensive program which will resolve issues at the root cause and goes beyond just Basic Obedience, which is what other trainers can only offer. We are the only certified JF Dog Listeners to teach Amichien Bonding in Singapore.
Are your Classes & Consultations too short to achieve any results?
Because the program is so effective and efficient, you start to see results almost immediately, hence the number of classess and consultations have been optimised and in essence it also saves you money. We are ethical in that we don’t believe in stretching classes longer than they should, so that we can charge more. Furthermore, all classes and consultations are backed by FREE lifetime support!
How big are your classes ?
Will I get the individual attention? Our class size is never more than 10 participants to ensure enough time is spent on each individual to address their issues. We are also around after class to address your issues more in depth or you can contact us anytime via phone, sms or email.
Can you guarantee results?
Dogs like humans have complex characters and a lot depends on the time and effort put in by the owner as well as the personality traits of the dog. We guarantee that we will work with you till results are achieved.
How soon can I see results?
Because of the effectiveness of the program, generally you can see results almost immediately. A lot also depends on the issues, the personality of the dog and the effort put in by the owner.
How different is your method from say the traditional choke chain method or the newer electric collar method?
Firstly we only use non-violent, positive methods and kind methods of correction. Our method also advocates cooperation from your dog and is not conditioning nor control. Traditional Choke Chain or Electric Collars work on the premise of fear and punishment. There is no cooperation or respect from the dog and once the gadget is not in use, the dog will revert to his old behaviour.
How young can my dog start training?
Dogs can start being cognitive from as young as 2 months, but their attention span is rather short. An ideal age to start teaching your dog is about 3 to 4 months onwards.
My dog is already very old, is it still possible to get rid of his bad habits?
As our methods invoke the natural learning processes of your dog, no dog is too old or young to learn. Our oldest client is 13 yrs old.
My dog is fearful or aggressive outside, can I still join the group classes?
You can still do so, but it may not be so effective, as your dog may be distracted or stressed by the presence of other dogs. For your situation you can consider the Individual Home Based Classes.
Will the Group or home based Individual program be better for my dog?
You can do a simple assessment by listing down the critical issues that you face and whether they occur in the home or outside. If most of the problems occur at home, you do not have a good foundation and it is recommended that you start off with the home based Individual Foundation Program. When things are very stable and you have resolved all the issues at home, the Group Program will then be very effective and beneficial as it focuses on the Socialization aspect. The Group Program will also be offered at a discount to those who have completed the Individual Foundation Program.
Can I make progressive payments after each lesson ?
Our policy is to receive full payment after the 1st lesson because we need you to be fully committed to the program just as we are fully committed to helping you resolve the issues with your dog and achieve a deeper bond
Can I transfer a current program to another dog or to another person ?
The course fees paid apply only to stipulated owner and dog and the program is not transferable to aother dog or owner. Likewise no refund is given in the event the owner decides not to continue with the program or gives up the dog
