Thursday, December 20, 2012

Mannerly Mutts Philosophy on Dog Training

The two Dobermans are Jackie and Leon, who have
unfortunately passed away.   The training they
recieved allowed them to enjoy their life in this way.
My philosophy on dog training is based on the idea of providing dogs the best and most full lives available in their domesticated situation with humans.   Training is a means to create a communication between two species, which do not share a common language.    Communication in the form of commands, body language, and demeanor are needed to develop through teaching and learning between the canine and canine owner.  It is more effective and efficient to be able to guide the dog what to do in situations, rather than have them guess what you would like them not to do, in my personal opinion. 
In order for dogs to have the most freedom and exercise, commands must be able to be performed reliably in distracting real life situations in which they are likely to accompany their owners.  Therefore it is important to use and design methods that teach the dog and owner in increasingly difficult distraction and situations.  For my dogs and my clients dogs; freedom, activity, fun, and mental work make their lives so much more enjoyable.  Sure dogs enjoy food, and I do sometimes use food rewards, but nothing trumps an adventure.   Being able to bring a dog to as many places as it is possible enriches not only the dog's life but the dog owner's life as well.   It forms a relationship that is a partnership and deep friendship.  As a reward for all involved, nothing trumps that.
These ideas have been developed through my interactions and observations of the International Association of Canine Professional members (professional association), Margot Woods (seminar presenter and training advocate), Martin Deeley (seminar presenter and previous executive director of the IACP), William Koehler (author and trainer who died many years ago. the proper use of the KMODT method using small steps practiced consistently to teach a dog gently and effectively—note you can ignore the last chapter of the book for way outdated methods) and Michael Ellis who stresses training under drive and motivation.  


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