Why we use food for dog training
"I don't want to rely on food for my training"
"Back in my day we didn't bribe dogs"
"My dog should just do as I say"
Does this sound familiar to you? We hear sentences like this so often and often when we ask why they are in for training it's because the dog won't recall, won't listen, pulls on the lead etc and there is a general break down in a section of their relationship.
Why is the dog like this?
Because the owner is holding low value to them. The owner hasn't worked on building the relationship in a way that the dog finds beneficial. In other words, the lack of rewards has dropped engagement and the owners overall value in the dogs eyes.
Imagine having a friend that provides no value to your friendship but has high expectations and demands things of you? How long would you remain friends with this person? Personally, this isn't a friendship I would want to invest any time in and it's the same for your dog.
So if you've found yourself in the position where your dog isn't listening and you want to change it's attitude, the first thing you need to fix is the gaps in your relationship and it's not as hard as you would think.
Firstly
- STOP feeding your dog from his/her bowl.
- Put your dogs daily food allowance in a treat pouch
- Start working on basic exercises and fun games for your dog to earn it's daily calories
- Use a marker to mark the moment your dog gets the game/training right
- Reward your dog early and often
- Be consistent
- Keep the sessions short 5 mins max
- Play with your dog daily Ball, tug, wrestling or whatever your dog finds enjoyable
- Invest daily time into your relationship where the dog feels good about your company
Do this daily for a couple of weeks and look at the change in your dog. You should see a dramatic difference in your dogs attitude, attention and overall demeanour.
For those of you saying that your dog doesn't have food drive, use high value food (not dry biscuits or dried liver. Try PRIME100 or equivilant) and remove all access to food other than through interactions with you. You can build food drive in
all dogs.
If you think that this isn't possible, our team works with 50 dogs per day and manages to get every one of them believing they are amazing and worth leaving games for.
Remember- Training only works when you do!
Raising Puppies the right way- Why it's important
The Key to a Well-Behaved Companion: Properly Raising Your Puppy
Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. As puppy parents, it's our responsibility to lay a solid foundation for their future. By correctly raising a puppy, we not only nurture their development but also prevent behaviour issues in the long run. At Dog Education Centre, we understand the importance of early education, which is why we offer a one-of-a-kind puppy school led by qualified trainers. Additionally, our follow-up intensive "Super-Pups" day-train provides continued support for your furry friend's growth and well-being.
Start Early: Puppyhood Matters
The first few months of a puppy's life are crucial. This is the time when they are most receptive to learning and adapting to their environment. By enrolling your pup in a reputable puppy school, such as the one at Dog Education Centre, you ensure they receive the necessary socialisation and basic obedience training. Early exposure to different people, animals, and environments helps build their confidence and minimises fear or aggression issues later on.
Positive Reinforcement: The Key to Success
Positive reinforcement training is a highly effective and humane approach to puppy education. By rewarding desired behaviours you establish a clear communication channel with your pup. This method encourages them to repeat those behaviours, gradually shaping their understanding of what is expected of them. Our qualified trainers at Dog Education Centre specialise in positive reinforcement techniques, ensuring a happy and harmonious learning experience for your puppy.
Consistency and Routine: Building Structure
Puppies thrive on consistency and routine. Establishing a structured daily routine helps them feel secure and confident in their environment. From meal times and potty breaks to playtime and training sessions, consistency in expectations and schedules helps puppies understand boundaries and reduces anxiety or disruptive behaviours. At Dog Education Centre, we emphasise the importance of a consistent routine as part of our puppy school and follow-up programs.
Continued Learning: The Super-Pups Program
At Dog Education Centre, our commitment to your puppy's long-term development doesn't end with basic puppy school. We offer an exclusive Super-Pups program, an intensive follow-up day-train course designed to build upon their foundational training. Our qualified trainers provide specialised guidance tailored to your pup's unique needs, addressing any behaviour challenges that may arise. Through this program, we ensure a smooth transition into adulthood, setting the stage for a well-mannered and well-adjusted adult dog. We also offer intermediate and advanced classes for ongoing education.
Raising a puppy correctly is a proactive investment in their future well-being and happiness. By enrolling them in a reputable puppy school, like the one at Dog Education Centre, and continuing their education through the Super-Pups program, you are providing them with the tools and skills needed for a lifetime of good behaviour.
Remember, the early months are critical, and with positive reinforcement, consistency, and ongoing support, you can nurture a strong bond and prevent behaviour issues long term. Start your puppy's journey on the right paw with Dog Education Centre, where we are committed to creating super pups that grow into exceptional companions.
Terms and Conditions
Copyright 2018
Dog Education Centre ABN: 31 618 951 787
CONTACT
(02)60245073
dogs@brydiecharlesworth.com
3 Sheathers Road
West Wodonga Vic
3690
OPENING HOURS
- Mon - Fri
- -
- Saturday
- -
- Sunday
- Closed
