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People usually seek out a dog trainer to solve a specific problem. After a short discussion, it is often clear that the situation is more complex and there are many problems to be solved.
What's a dog parent to do?
The list of problems is often endless - house soiling, puppy mouthing, barking, digging, chewing on furniture, counter-surfing, jumping up on people, pulling on leash, separation anxiety and so on. The initial problem is just the tip of the iceberg. That's why it is helpful to back up a few steps.
First: Build a Solid Foundation
Dogs have certain basic needs, such as good nutrition, exercise, and a safe resting place. They also need a leader to communicate and enforce the household rules. Finally they need consistency, to ensure that they don't become confused about the rules. You can think of these things as the foundation. This is the best place to start.
To find out more, go to the "Foundation" page.
Next: Train Your Dog
You can build on your foundation by teaching your dog to do what you ask - to pay attention, sit and stay, come when called, etc. This is what we typically think of as "Training".
Training is about teaching your dog what to do - what is acceptable behavior. In a class, you will spend the majority of your time learning how to teach your dog various behaviors. The real training goes on at home!
In the Training section of this web site, you will learn how to use a clicker or verbal marker to mark the behaviors you like. It's a great way to communicate clearly with your dog. It helps you to focus on rewarding good behaviors, instead of only suppressing misbehavior with corrections.
Once you can communicate with your dog, you will be able to use these trained behaviors to prevent unwanted behavior.
To get started, go to the "Clicker" page.
Finally: It's Time for Problem Solving
If you skip the foundation and training steps and go directly to problem solving, you will most likely trade one problem for another or add new problems to the list. Alternatively, if you work on the foundation and training first, you will find that many problem behaviors disappear on their own. Your dog will be happier and you will be too!
Dogs do what works, so if an unwanted behavior persists, it must be working. First ask yourself whether you have done everything possible to solve the problem in a positive way. Then take appropriate action.
To find out more, go to the "Problem Solving" page.
