These videos are examples of our force free dog training and are mostly of the end result. The process is always guided by the dog and learning is broken down into achievable components. Filming took place across Torbay, Auckland
Loose Lead Walking should be taught. It doesn't make sense for the dog to walk next to you so we should teach them. There's no need for leash jerks, shouting or aversive tools. My top 5 tips are:
Level 3 recall practise happens away from home with low distractions. It's impossible to remove all distractions for my boy because he's really interested in smells, and smells are everywhere! In this session I know there are no rabbits, cats, dogs, birds to distract him so when I call him I've only got the smells to compete with.
Reliable recall is a dogs most useful 'trick'. Practise level 1 recall first
then increase the level of difficulty by adding distractions. If your dog doesn't come back when called, lower the distractions and make it easier
for your dog to choose you by moving closer or being more interesting!
Recall is a dogs most useful 'trick'. Start practising calling your dog at home, with no distractions around. Don't ask your dog to perform any other tricks when they get to you. Don't get mad if they don't come straight away, just make it easier next time.
If nail clippers freak your dog out you need to start by desensitising them to the sight of them. The process can vary in the time it takes but you MUST go at your dogs pace.
Putu used to be so upset by the nail clippers that he had to be sedated at the vets to get his nails clipped. We're not able to clip them yet but look at how happy he is to get them from the drawer!
Achieving reliable recall is the most important 'trick' you can teach your dog. It's helpful to understand the reasons why a dog might not respond to your call. They're never trying to wind you up or leave you hanging....promise!
Most people lack the motivation to exercise by themselves so they join a gym or classes. Training your dog is equally challenging so join one of our group classes if you need support.
After great recall, loose lead walking is the most desirable dog behaviour. It's an awkward thing to teach because you need to walk your dog every day and don't want them to practise pulling while you're teaching them.
It is a process which will take time and must be practised but read my loose lead walking blog for extra tips.
Encouraging eye contact. This is useful because a dog is more likely to listen when they are watching. Dogs communicate more through visual cues than verbal cues.
Small dogs and puppies may need to play this game on an elevated surface.
Engaging your dog with food and introducing secondary reinforcers.
If you're worried about your dog putting on weight, use a portion of their regular food when you play this, and other food related games.
Building on the heel position to move sideways.
I started practising this because I thought it would be a cool trick but teaching my dog to move sideways into heel really helped to teach him the value of being in this position. He moves closer to me without me asking!
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