Our Training Philosophy
Ivan Pavlov's discovery of classic conditioning (with which he just so happened to use dogs) taught us that training is much more than demanding action and physical positions for dogs. Dogs are cognizant, sentient beings that react to consequences. They respond very well to positive reinforcement by understanding what we expect them to do.
Thank to people like Ivan Pavlov
Think of the bazillion things your dog could do in a day that would drive you crazy. Chewing socks and shoes come to mind! It is far easier to teach a dog what is appropriate for them to put their teeth on than it is to scold or correct each and every time they chew socks, shoes, or books. Better still, it's easier for your dog to comprehend your point.
Think of the BAZILLION things your dog could do...
The science of animal training and behavior involves observing and discovering patterns and responses in animals. Our philosophy is to treat your relationship with your dog with kindness, trust, and love so that they will become polite members of society.
The Science of Animal Training and Behavior
Train with Brains, Not Brawn!
Just like children, dogs are raised to grow up and be polite members of society. Trust and confidence all the way helps instill appropriate behavior. When a bad habit is developed, we can alter or modify that behavior using the relationships that was built upon trust. Instead of using threats or harsh punishment, dogs can learn the behaviors we prefer and leave their bad habits behind.
Do Dogs Really Want to Please?
It's debatable, but they certainly want to know what's in it for them. They are such opportunists that they'll repeat what has been rewarding for them (i.e. a piece of cheese, a pat on the head, a walk in the park). As for the humans, it's a lot more fun to use reward-based methods than to be on the edge waiting for your dog to do something you need to correct. Food rewards can be faded away while the new behaviors stay put. But when using fear to teach a dog (or child) that fear does not generally fade away.