Author: Nan Long

“I’ve witnessed firsthand the destructive power of shock collars in dog training. Shock collar and electric fence companies will tell you they’re not harmful when used ‘correctly,’ but this is false. What they don’t tell you about is the damage these devices can do, both to the human/canine bond and to a dog’s emotional stability. … Continue reading Dangers of Positive Punishment

(Great tips for the Holidays!) When work with clients one of the first things we talk about is proper management. That is the use of management so dogs can’t practice behaviors we don’t want. What our dogs practice, they get better at! Until consistent training can occur management is very helpful. An example of this … Continue reading Effective Use of Management and Training

Of course you do, and that is the best place to find your dog trainer. In fact the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behaviorists has made the following recommendations to veterinarians about dog training: Does reward-based training mean that dogs are allowed to do unwanted behaviors?Use of reward-based methods does not mean dogs are allowedto … Continue reading Do you trust your veterinarian?

My Dog Pulls, What Do I Do? We can help you have a dog that walks nicely on a leash. Unfortunately we often inadvertently reward pulling by following our dog. In other words pulling never happened until we connected the human to the other end of the leash! Different equipment, such as no-pull harness can … Continue reading

Dog safety in hot weather is important! Since their only method of cooling is thru a nose and their feet they struggle more with hot weather than some of their humans. Here is some good information courtesy of a course I took with PetTech: Rule of 120. This is a number based on temperature plus … Continue reading Weather Safety with Dogs

We use only the most current science-based training methods. We want to insure you get the very best training possible. Our mission is to help initiate the changes and teach you and your dog how to maintain the work. Here is some great information from the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior on dog training:“Many … Continue reading Compassionate Training Solutions

I had a new private client today. She has previously hired a non-force free trainer to help with her 8 month old German Shepherd Dog. After a couple of sessions the dog started to try to hide from the trainer. The training was not enjoyable to the dog. The dog was failing at recalls, probably … Continue reading Training Should Be Fun!

Dog training is an unregulated industry. In most states in the U.S. anyone may call them selves a dog trainer. As a dog owner it is up to you to find the right trainer to help you and your dog. So what should you look for? Here are some essential dog trainer requirements: 1. Knowlege. … Continue reading How to Pick the Right Dog Trainer

It's important to remember that what our dogs practice they get better at. Interrupting undesirable behaviors by using consequences and/or management helps them learn what is acceptable and what is not. In the context of play it's important to remember there should be interruptions in play, things like pauses, shake offs and role reversals. If … Continue reading Teaching Dogs Good Play

When you work with us you will receive a customized training plan unique to your needs. If plans aren’t user friendly, it is harder for you to implement. During your private session we will thoroughly assess your needs, start the work, and help you learn how to practice it. When we leave that day you … Continue reading The Beauty of Private Training