Marker Training

Just like clicker training but without the clicker.  Of course we can use a clicker if you'd like!  I find it easier for pet guardians to use a word instead of carrying a clicker with them at all times.  We will use a specific word (yes or good) to let your dog know the exact moment they do what we are asking.  This will give you a language to speak with your dog and make communication easy.  With marker training you can start increasing positive behaviors immediately.

Positive Reinforcement

I use lots of treats during training.  Whatever behavior we want to see repeated, we need to reinforce.  Treats are the fastest way to let your dog know what behaviors you want repeated.  Play, positive attention/affection and access to the environment can also be used as reinforcement too.  Food is often the fastest way to establish a relationship and teach new behaviors in a humane way.  For any client worried treats can be viewed as bribes, please read this.

LIMA

This is an acronym for the code of ethics I adhere to for training.  It stands for Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive.  All dog trainers registered with the APDT (Association of Professional Dog Trainers) must agree to utilize this humane hierarchy.  Results are important in training but we must also consider the dog's wellbeing while achieving those results.  I use the most ethical and science backed training.  For more specific information, look here.