I understand that your dog is important to you, you wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t. For that reason, you need to work with a trainer who is right for both them and you. The dog training industry is unregulated and you need to be careful about where you get your advice.
So am I the right trainer for your team:
- I'm not going to be suggesting techniques that rely on pain or intimidation The 'alpha wolf theory' wolf theory was debunked well over 20 years ago. We are living with a domesticate species who has very real feelings. Techniques that rely on intimation may suppress unwanted behaviours, but will not address the cause of the behaviour and may increase anxiety.
- I do not offer quick fixes. I focus on management and modification not suppression. We may be working with each other for a while.
- The foundations are important. I will spend time going over them, this means that it is highly unlikely that a problem will be 'fixed' in one session.
- I focus on the whole dog. We need to think about the motivation or cause of the behaviour. I offer a team approach, working closely with vets, other trainers and dog walkers
From you I need:
- Communication. The more information the better. It will sometimes take me a while to respond to correspondence but please know I read every email and watch all video footage.
- Willingness to try different approaches. Especially in the foundation laying stage, we may focus on things like the dogs needs and your handling. If something doesn’t make sense you are always welcome to ask but there is always a process
- Realistic goals and empathy towards your dog. There are some traits about your dog that you may never be able to change. Goals will need to be set around giving both you and them a good quality of life.
- Commitment. I will work closely with you to find realistic solutions for your family life but there may need to be changes to your dog’s regular schedule. Having young children myself, I understand time can be limited, however many dogs have quite high biological needs and if you are unable to meet these needs it may be difficult to see improvements in behaviour.
If I’m not the right trainer for you, that’s ok. I am happy to recommend others or can suggest looking at the Pet Professional Guild Australia website overcome it.