In simplified terms, I use a balanced training approach that is customized to each dog and owner. There is no one-size-fits-all in dog training and we may go through a variety of methods and tools in order to find what works best for your dog. My main focuses are helping you build a good communication system with your dog in order to have a strong relationship, and prioritizing a healthy mindset.

At its core, balanced training is implementing rewards as well as fair corrections when appropriate. It is a “balance” of using positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, positive punishment, and negative punishment in varying ways depending on a multitude of factors including the dog, the handler, the environment, the task at hand, etc. Effective communication comes from being able to tell your dog “yes” do more of that, and “no” I don’t like that behavior. Knowing WHEN it’s appropriate and HOW to implement each element is extremely important and is something we’ll discuss together since it is so situationally dependent.

Examples:

• Positive Reinforcement: adding something that your dog finds valuable in order to increase the likelihood that they repeat the behavior.

  • E.g., giving your dog a treat, toy, or verbal praise after successfully sitting when you said “sit”

• Negative Reinforcement: removing something that your dog doesn’t like in order to increase the likelihood that they repeat that behavior.

  • E.g., releasing pressure on the leash as your dog turns and walks towards you

• Positive Punishment: adding something that your dog doesn’t like in order to decrease the likelihood that they repeat that behavior.

  • E.g., applying spatial pressure when your dog goes to move out of their down stay, or a quick pop on a slip lead or prong when they try to leave heel position

• Negative Punishment: Removing something that your dog finds valuable in order to decrease the likelihood that they repeat that behavior.

  • E.g., pausing your affection to your dog if they jump up on you while greeting them

Keep in mind these are purely for example purposes only and in reality dog training is usually a fluid combination of all of these elements.

Training tools are anything that is helpful in teaching and communicating with your dog. E.g.. Flat collars, harnesses, slip leads, prong collars, e-collars, martingales, head halters, flexi leashes, treats, muzzles, long lines, etc.

Since every dog/owner/situation is different I do not have required tools in order to work with me. HOWEVER, you must come in with an open mind and be willing to learn about new tools that I may recommend. If I believe that a specific tool could be helpful to your dog I do ask that you at least try it.