novice obedience
I am a balanced trainer, drawing from a wide spectrum of techniques to train the dog that is in front of me. What that means is that every dog is different so I strive to find what works best for your individual dog. I start off with a lot of positive reinforcement during the initial learning phase before transitioning to leash and collar corrections once the dog knows what is expected from them and eventually phasing out treats to only 5-10% of the time. I teach a First Time-Every Time type of training technique which means that we only command things one time and then the dog must respond. The lessons are one on one in your home and are backed up by video support and comprehensive PDF handouts for each lesson. I train YOU to train your dog.
This is a 7-lesson course where you will learn sit at heel position; a release command; heeling on a loose leash with right and left turns; sit to be pet; the “OUT” command; down at heel position; sit stay; down stay; the place command (sending the dog to a bed or place); the LOOK command; recall (come when called); and stand for examination (great for vet visits and grooming). The course begins with an understanding of marker training and leash pressure and transitions to how to use correction to achieve results.
There is a video orientation before training begins which discusses what to have for training; leashes and collars; my method and some key points; and some general recommendations for around the house. Each lesson includes a link to a video companion which reviews all the technique and homework as well as a detailed PDF handout for reference. Students who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate and be eligible for further training if desired.
I am based in Fonthill, but I do lessons in the whole Niagara Region. All my training is done at your home, or a place of your choosing and I will have at least one of my dogs at all practical lessons to act as a demo dog and for distraction for your dog. The curriculum is designed in a way where each week builds off the previous week so you will need at least a week between lessons to practice, however; the beauty of private lessons is that we can adjust the times to accommodate work and life schedules.
