Creating a happy, balanced dog

A happy, balanced dog is our goal.

Good dog training, really good dog training is complex. The concept of punishment should not be approached carelessly, and the oversight of a qualified professional is always recommended. It is a way of approaching dog training and behavior that is both fair and compassionate, while also creating real world reliability that is achievable for the everyday dog owner. Our training methods are based on relationship and trust. Understanding the emotional state of the dog is paramount to creating this relationship and preserving the integrity and enthusiasm of the dog. 

Balanced training uses diversity and flexibility to adapt to every dog and owner. This gives the trainer a complete toolbox and the ability to train the widest range of clients and their dogs.

There is no one method or tool that works to help every dog. So we like to have every option in the tool kit available to help dogs be the best they can be. This can mean a flat collar and treats or a prong/e collar and high value toy depending on the dog, the situation and education level of the dog.  These tools give the owner the ability to quickly, effectively and correctly communicate to the dog the correct answer to any question while preserving the happiness and enthusiasm of the dog. Any tool can be used incorrectly, it is up to us as handlers to learn and be as precise in our communication with our dog as possible. 

I also often use the help from our own pack of dogs (and extended pack of past clients that frequently visit) with the belief that there is no easier way for a dog to learn, than learning by example. With that help, we are able to show that there is a leader of the pack which all the other balanced dogs follow- the human.

With balanced training, we create enthusiastic, happy dogs by using a highly desired reward with the use of correction. Because every dog and every dog owner is going to have a unique situation, rewards can be a favorite toy, a treat, or anything a dog responds to with enthusiasm.

Techniques focused only on correcting negative behavior may work quickly but can also leave negative side effects.

Techniques focused only on positive cheerleading, without giving the dog clear structure and direction can make the dog frustrated.

Balanced training should utilize a long foundation of building a great relationship and trust between the dog and owner, lots of play and genuine enjoyment of the dog, and many quality reps of the behaviors in ways the dog clearly understands and enjoys. You cannot “correct” a dog for what it doesn’t know. That is unfair, especially to an animal that wants to please you. Dogs have been bred for centuries to understand and work with us. It’s on us to understand them and reciprocate their efforts. Failures on the dog’s part reflect mistakes in our communication with them the majority of the time. Only once the dog has a solid understanding of what’s expected should “corrections” come into play. These should be the minimum amount needed to help the dog understand the criteria and should always be followed by encouragement and praise for attempting the correct thing. Always praise effort! Perfection will only come through our best efforts and many reps.