Author: Nan Long

Our training approach is based on the use of the Humane Hierarchy as defined by Susan Friedman. The first thing we address during a consult is our clients dog’s wellness needs. That means is something amiss physically, emotionally, nutritionally? I recently had a client who was having trouble with getting the dog to jump in … Continue reading Training using the Humane Heirarchy

We are certified professional dog trainers who train under the humane hierarchy, we are not advocates of balanced training.  Balanced training uses positive AND punishing techniques. A balanced trainer might use treats to reward a dog when teaching loose-leash walking (positive reinforcement), but they also might use a choke chain and resort to correcting when … Continue reading Our Training Methods

We offer unique and personalized plans for our clients. We go beyond the cookie-cutter approach used by some trainers. Our training is behavior based and very client friendly. We will assess your dog(s) in their home environment and formulate a plan (together with you), that meets your needs combined with our help, and your abilities. … Continue reading We offer the best training plans

All our training plans are specific to each client, owner and situation. During our in-your home training consult we will assess, create and help you practice that plan. We factor in help for behavioral issues, that doesn’t rely on typical obedience training. It’s a win-win for dogs and their owners! Here is an example of … Continue reading In-Home Work Shines

About 15 years ago, I changed the way I worked with my dogs. I had been using obedience based training that used power based control as the methods to manage my dogs. They performed not as much out of willingness but rather because compliance was required. Looking back I realize that my dogs were not … Continue reading Connection versus Control Based Training

Did You Know? That dogs and human heart rates both slow down when they meet each other? (provided both are willing!). When dogs sit together with their human their hearts begin to beat in synchronicity. Dogs “love” in their hormones by an increase in oxytocin that in turn increases the oxytocin in their people. These … Continue reading Why We Love Science!

Have you ever wondered why your dog suddenly experienced an unusual behavior? Sometimes issues can be caused by what’s known as trigger stacking. Fearful events that happen in quick succession that don’t allow time for the dog to recover emotionally. If you are experiencing issues like that we are here to help. Please call us … Continue reading Trigger Stacking

It’s all about the recall (Come command) The single most important thing you can teach your dog is to return to you. It’s a safety measure and if you work on nothing else, practice that. I always teach clients and their dogs how to successfully practice and make it a fun game. Call us at … Continue reading Training a successful recall

The work starts immediately upon bringing your puppy home. No puppy should leave it’s mother or litter mates before 8 weeks of age. Of course there will occasionally be exceptions with rescue puppies. There are crucial social interactions that are needed prior to that time with their puppy family. It is important that their next … Continue reading Puppies! Let the fun begin!

This is a good share and so true today.  We humanize our dogs and expect them to be perfect and never display dog behaviors. They are after all dogs and it is our job to help them cope in our human world. Our private in-home consults help you gain the exact help you need.  A … Continue reading We Are Force Free Canine Professionals