Positive Reinforcement Dog Training
Positive Reinforcement Dog Training
Lauren Gray is Certified CPDT-KA
TRAINING METHODS
My goal when I work with any animal is to create a willing partner. Sadly, the go to method of the past, and still used by many trainers today, is to work with an animal through fear. Methods that include shock collars, prong collars, electric collars, yelling, hitting, and harsh leash corrections are only bullying the animal into a fear-based compliance. By using science-based, positive reinforcement, fear free training methods, I am working with my dog, creating a leadership based on respect.
The number of dogs that are surrendered and ultimately euthanized per year is heartbreaking. Many of those dogs could easily have been saved if their owners had received quality and correct education. Humane handling takes having a proper understanding of canine behavior and learning to communicate with your dog effectively. My number one goal is to teach you just that; how to communicate with your pup! I want to educate you on how your dog learns and equip you with the right tools to keep you training and working with your dog even when I am out of the picture.
WHO IS LAUREN?
Lauren has loved animals as long as she can remember.
She grew up riding and caring for horses, walking any neighborhood dog she was allowed, and trying to take home anything with four legs. Finally, at thirteen, her parents gifted her with a beautiful Samoyed puppy named Casper. The rest, as they say, is history.
SATISFIED CUSTOMERS – PEOPLE AND DOGS ALIKE!
FREQUENT QUESTIONS ABOUT POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT TRAINING
There is not a definitive answer to this question. Training your dog depends on your dog’s background, how diligent you are in working with your pup, as well as what your end goals are. I can tell you that if you follow recommendations and practice consistently, we can make a lot of progress in just a few sessions!
No! Dogs of any age benefit from continued training. One of the awesome benefits of positive reinforcement training is the relationship you build with your dog. Training is one way to continue building on that bond. Additionally, it provides important mental stimulation for your dog as well decreases the chances of anxiety and stress while continuing to build confidence.
While I understand that family’s schedules are often difficult to align, it is helpful to have as many people as possible present. This provides greater consistency with your pup leading to a greater success rate in achieving your goals. A lack of consistency can provide confusion. That being said, those attending should be age appropriate. I find that young children provide more of a distraction and cause difficulty in the parent’s ability to concentrate during training. It is helpful to provide your child with an activity or game during this time to allow you to stay focused!
Every dog is different and will mature and be able to be trusted in his or her own time. Once you start to notice that your dog is not constantly getting into mischief and needing to be watched while you are home, you may be able to start to give some more freedoms. Start small and short! Using a small room or baby gates, you can try leaving him in a small area that has nothing on the floor that causes temptation. Leave for a short period of time such as a coffee run or quick walk around the block and see how your dog does. If he does well, you can slowly start to increase the space you allow your dog to have and the time you are gone.
Training and socialization should start right away! The prime socialization age for your puppy is 8 -12 weeks and vitally important to your pup’s confidence throughout his entire life. Good socialization makes the “weird and scary” fun and exciting. Additionally, your pup will benefit from learning basic obedience right from the start. This will provide mental stimulation, help to keep unwanted behaviors at bay, and build confidence!
SETUP A CONSULT
Have questions or want to schedule a first consult, please use the form below to contact Lauren’s Dog Training.
(Please note that Lauren’s Dog Training primarily serves the Pennsylvania regions of Western Montgomery County, Eastern Berks County, and Northern Chester County. If you are not in those regions, please discuss with Lauren about possible options.)
