What You Should Do To Have a Great Lesson

• Keep your dog “in the game”

Respected dog trainer Sue Ailsby uses the term “in the game” to describe a dog who is focused on their handler and ready to learn.  If a dog isn’t in the game, he isn’t ready to learn.  Reward your dog’s attention on you in class and keep him close to you.  During any class downtime reward your dog for sitting in front or beside you and paying attention to you.

• The Right Motivation

Treats should be about the size of your fingernail for large dogs and a bit less for small dogs. The treats you bring to class should be something your dog really loves!  In the teaching phase of a behavior we will use treats to reward your dog’s response when teaching a behavior.

• Doggy etiquette

Try to keep some space between your dog and the others in class.  If your dog is allowed to become overly distracted by the other dogs he will not be “in the game” and you will not be getting the most out of training class.  On lead greeting and playing is discouraged in class.  Even friendly dogs on lead can become possessive of their space or owners.  If you think your dog would enjoy offleash play with social dogs ask us about Playday or Doggy Daycare!

• Consistency

Be consistent with your training.  Once you begin teaching something stick with it!  Work your dog in class as you would at home and vice versa.  For example if you don’t want your dog to pull on lead then insist on a loose leash at class, at home and ererywhere else.

• Patience

Be patient and fair with your dog.  Avoid training when you don’t feel well or are in a bad mood.  If your dog is not feeling well it’s probably best to keep him home from class and hold off training until he is back to normal.  If you find yourself becoming frustrated ask your dog to do something easy and end the training session.

• Rate of Reinforcement

Studies have been done by colleges at dog training classes to determine why some students are more successful then others at dog training.  They found a key factor has to do with the rate of reinforcement (the frequency that the dog is given positive feedback for “good” behavior).  The most effective trainers in class offered a rate of reinforcement up to fives times as often as the less effective trainers.

• Have fun!

Remember this is a fun time for you and your dog.  Have a positive attitude and praise enthusiastically!