Positive Reinforcement Training with Affirmations and Dog Training Clicker
Affirmations play a crucial role in positive reinforcement training by clearly communicating to our dogs when they have performed a desired behavior. They act as verbal markers that help reinforce commands and guide our dogs toward consistent, appropriate responses. Affirmations are more than just general praise; they provide specific feedback that helps our dogs understand […]
Indiscriminate Inclusion: The Heart of Mindful Training
The very essence of Mindful Training is learning to see yourself in your dog. When you recognize that your dog is an extension of yourself, your approach to training shifts from control to compassion. You would never harm yourself, so why would you harm your dog? Instead, you would strive to support, nurture, and guide […]
Go Sniff!
It is a great non-basic command where you teach your dog to go and sniff a nearby area on command. This doesn’t sound like the most practical or applicable command for many situations, does it? Wrong! There are several moments in which this command can be an ideal tool to redirect our dogs. Examples: Your […]
Get Ready for First Training Session!
Make treats more meaningful: Reduce the amount of your dog’s meal before class to increase their treat drive. Potty Time: Take your dog out for a potty break right before the training session begins to ensure their bladder and bowels are empty. Harness: If your trainer asks that your dog is on a harness instead […]
Shaping Behavior
Shaping is a series of actions to take when your dog does not respond to your verbal command.
Tier of Rewards
The right treats make the best training reward.
Shaping a Stationary Behavior
Before working on Sit/Stay, Down/Stay, Place/Stay, or crate training for an extended period, burn some of your dog’s energy to be primed and ready for the practice.
Preparing for Training Day
When training, ensure you come prepared with all the items necessary to Shape your dog’s behavior.
Clicker Training: How to Give Affirmations and Use a Dog Training Clicker
An Affirmation is a means to let your dog know what it did that was correct or desirable. Examples include “Good Sit,” “Good Look,” and “Good Heel.”
Teach Your Dog Door Manners
Working on door manners significantly mitigates the likelihood of door dashing.