What is Balanced Dog Training?
Balanced dog training is a method in dog training which uses both positive and negative reinforcement to shape behavior. Examples of positive reinforcement would be the use of a marker word followed by a treat or play. The purpose is to imprint to the dog that the behavior just displayed is wanted and receives a positive reward. The association between behavior and reward is a positive experience for the dog. Over time the dog learns that when I do this behavior I receive this reward and when that reward is beneficial to the dog then the dog will respond when commanded. There is not always a reward but the dog has learned that “good” behaviors are the way of life. An example of a Negative reinforcement would be when the dog displays an unwanted behavior and receives a negative reward like a stern “no” and a pop of the leash, or withholding attention. Over time the dog will learn that that behavior is associated with an unwanted experience from the dog’s perspective and then that behavior is less likely to occur.
Why do you use a prong collar and slip lead?
A prong collar and a slip lead when properly utilized allows the owners to effectively communicate with their dog.Training your dog properly allows the human to communicate with the dog and the dog responds accordingly. The prong collar and slip leash are like power steering to a vehicle. Without the power steering in your vehicle it would be a complete upper body workout to simply drive your car. Sadly when a dog doesn’t have obedience it’s a complete workout to simply walk your dog.
My dog’s problems are out in public. Why do you encourage obedience and structure in the home?
This is a great question. Your home is your dog’s kennel at least in dog terms. If your dog doesn’t have obedience in an environment that they’re comfortable and familiar with then why would your dog have obedience in a new environment with all new distractions? Learning obedience in your home and then introducing distractions sets your dog up for success. Of course you can’t be mad at your dog if you haven’t taught them how to behave in the first place.
What sets Elementum K9 apart from others?
There are many options for dog trainers. I thank you for even considering me with your dog. What sets Elementum K9 apart from others is that I am a people person who loves dogs. In my past careers I have developed my ability to effectively communicate and problem solve. I know I have the ability to teach any dog owner how to better their relationship with their dog. I do not know everything and who does? I’m not too proud to admit it but I’m humble enough to be a lifelong learner about something I’m greatly passionate about. I also have high enough character to tell you that I can’t help you if your needs are out of my wheelhouse.
Can my dog be trained to be obedient off-leash?
The answer is yes. My follow up question, however, is how well trained is your dog on a leash? The answer to that question dictates how much work is needed to train your dog off of the leash.