The Importance of Puppy Socialization: A Guide to Socializing Your Puppy Effectively

two dogs eating

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and joyous experience. It is important to remember that raising a well-rounded and well-adjusted dog starts from the early stages of life. One of the key aspects of puppy care is socialization. In this article, we will explore the why, when, and how of properly socializing your puppy.

What Does Puppy Socialization Mean? 

puppy chilling outside

Puppy socialization is the process of exposing young dogs to various people, animals, and environments in order to help them develop into well-adjusted and confident adult dogs. It involves introducing the puppy to different sights, sounds, smells, and experiences to help them learn and adapt to new situations. This is essential for their mental and emotional well-being and can prevent behavior problems in the future. Proper socialization allows puppies to build positive associations with different stimuli, such as car rides, strangers, and other animals, which can help reduce fear and anxiety as they grow older. It is important to start the socialization process as early as possible, ideally between 3 to 14 weeks of age, as this is the critical period when puppies are most receptive to learning. However, socialization should continue throughout their lives to reinforce positive behaviors and keep them confident and well-rounded. 

Why Socialize Your Puppy

Socializing your puppy is extremely important for their overall well-being and development. It involves exposing your puppy to various people, animals, and environments in a positive and controlled manner. This process helps them become comfortable and confident in different situations, reducing the likelihood of fear or aggression as they grow older.

When puppies are properly socialized, they are more likely to grow up to be well-behaved and adaptable dogs. Socialization also helps prevent behavior problems such as separation anxiety or excessive barking. Additionally, socializing your puppy from an early age helps them build a strong foundation for future learning and training. It allows them to develop good manners and crucial social skills such as proper greetings and appropriate play behavior. Socializing your puppy is an investment in their future well-being, ensuring that they become happy, confident, and well-adjusted dogs that can easily adapt to various environments and situations. 

What is the significance of socializing a puppy? 

Puppy socialization is crucial because it sets the foundation for your dog’s future behavior. A well-socialized puppy is more likely to become a social, calm, and confident adult dog. It also helps prevent fear and aggression issues, making them easier to handle in various situations.

When to Socialize Your Puppy

Socializing your puppy is an important part of their development. The ideal age to start socializing your puppy is between three and twelve weeks old. During this time, their brains are more open to new experiences and they are generally more accepting of different people, animals, and environments. Socialization helps puppies learn how to interact with others in a positive way and builds their confidence. It also helps prevent behavior problems later on in life, such as fear aggression or separation anxiety.

When socializing your puppy, it is important to introduce them to a variety of people, animals, and situations in a controlled and positive manner. This can include taking them to puppy playdates, obedience classes, and exposing them to different noises and environments. Remember to always monitor your puppy’s interactions and make sure they are comfortable and safe. By socializing your puppy early on, you are setting them up for a lifetime of positive relationships and experiences. 

At what stage is it most beneficial to socialize a puppy? 

The critical socialization period for puppies is between 3 and 12 weeks of age. During this time, they are most receptive to learning about the world around them. Early socialization is key, as puppies’ brains are like sponges, absorbing information and experiences rapidly.

What if your dog did not experience early socialization? 

Even if your puppy missed the early socialization window, it is never too late to socialize them. Older puppies or adult dogs can still benefit from exposure to new people, animals, and environments. However, extra care should be taken to ensure that the experiences are positive and gradually introduced.

How to Socialize Your Puppy

Socializing your puppy is an essential part of their growth and development. It is important to expose them to different people, animals, and environments at a young age to help them become well-adjusted adult dogs. Start by introducing your puppy to family and friends in a controlled and positive manner. Gradually increase the level of exposure and introduce them to new experiences, such as walks in the park, car rides, and visits to the veterinarian. It is important to allow your puppy to interact with other dogs, but make sure it is in a safe and supervised environment. Puppy socialization classes can also be beneficial, as they provide an opportunity for your puppy to interact with other dogs and learn basic obedience skills. Positive reinforcement is key throughout the socialization process, rewarding your puppy for good behavior and providing them with a sense of security. With proper socialization, your puppy will grow up to be a confident and well-behaved adult dog.

A Step by Step Guide on How to Socialize a Puppy  

Socializing a puppy is an important aspect of their development as it teaches them to be comfortable and well-adjusted around people, animals, and different environments. Below is a comprehensive guide outlining your puppy’s socializing journey:

  1. Begin early: The ideal time to start socializing your puppy is between 3 to 14 weeks of age. This is when puppies are most receptive to new experiences and less likely to develop fear or aggression.
  2. Expose your puppy to different people: Introduce your puppy to a variety of friendly people of different ages, genders, and ethnicities. Encourage them to gently pet and interact with your puppy, giving them treats and praise when they approach new people calmly.
  3. Introduce them to other animals: Arrange playdates with other vaccinated and friendly dogs, preferably those that are well-socialized themselves. Make sure the initial meetings are in a controlled environment, and monitor their interactions closely to prevent any aggressive or fearful behavior.
  4. Teach proper leash manners: Take your puppy on regular walks to help them get used to being on a leash and encountering other people, animals, and surroundings in a controlled manner. Encourage positive interactions and use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise when your puppy behaves well.
  5. Expose them to different environments: Introduce your puppy to various environments such as parks, busy streets, outdoor cafes, etc. Start with calm and less overwhelming places, gradually increasing the level of exposure. Be cautious and aware of your puppy’s reactions to ensure they don’t become anxious or frightened.
  6. Provide positive experiences: Make sure all socializations experiences are pleasant for your puppy. Use positive reinforcement and reward-based training methods, like treats, toys, and praise, to encourage good behavior. Avoid using punishment or forceful methods, as they can create fear and anxiety.
  7. Gradually increase exposure: Gradually expose your puppy to new and challenging situations, while also considering their individual comfort level. For example, if your puppy is scared of loud noises, start by exposing them to gentle sounds and gradually introduce louder ones over time.
  8. Continued socialization: Remember that socialization is an ongoing process that should continue throughout your puppy’s life. Make sure to provide regular opportunities for them to interact with people, animals, and different environments.
  9. Seek professional help if needed: If you encounter significant difficulties or aggression during the socialization process, seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist can be beneficial. They can help assess the situation and provide customized guidance to address any specific issues.
    Remember, patience is key during the socialization process. Every puppy is unique, and some may take longer to adjust than others. Keep the interactions positive, and focus on building your puppy’s confidence and trust in a variety of situations. 

Alternative methods to socialize your puppy that has not yet been fully vaccinated 

If your puppy is not fully vaccinated yet, it is still possible to socialize them safely. Arrange playdates with other well-vaccinated, healthy dogs in controlled environments. Avoid public places like dog parks until your puppy is fully vaccinated to minimize the risk of diseases.

What is habituation?

Habituation is the process of familiarizing your puppy with different stimuli in their environment. It involves exposing them to various sounds, sights, and smells, helping them become accustomed to everyday experiences.

What is desensitization?

Desensitization is the process of gradually exposing your puppy to stimuli or situations that they may find uncomfortable or fear-inducing. This helps them overcome their fears and learn to react calmly and confidently.

Do’s and Don’ts of Puppy Socialization

When socializing your puppy, there are certain do’s and don’ts to keep in mind. Do provide positive experiences, reward good behavior, and expose them to different environments. Don’t force interactions, expose them to overwhelming situations, or punish fearful behavior.

Factors That Contribute to A Social, Calm, and Confident Dog?

There are several factors that contribute to raising a social, calm, and confident dog. Proper puppy socialization, positive reinforcement training, consistent discipline, and a loving and supportive environment all play a role in shaping your dog’s behavior.

Considerations for Puppy Classes

When choosing a puppy class for your furry friend, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, it is crucial to find a class that is taught by a certified and experienced trainer. This ensures that your puppy will receive the proper guidance and instruction. Additionally, the class should focus on positive reinforcement training methods rather than punishment-based techniques. This not only helps to build a strong bond between you and your puppy, but also promotes a happy and positive learning environment. Another important factor to consider is the size of the class. A smaller class allows for more individual attention and personalized instruction for both you and your puppy. A one-on-one puppy training class is even better as it allows focused learning. It is also important to look for a class that covers a variety of topics, such as basic obedience, socialization, and problem-solving. Lastly, consider the location and schedule of the class to ensure that it is convenient for you to attend regularly. By taking these considerations into account, you can find the perfect puppy class for your four-legged friend. 

When Can Your Puppy Start Training Classes?

Your puppy can start training classes once they have received their initial vaccinations and are cleared by a veterinarian. Puppy classes provide a structured environment for socialization, learning basic commands, and building important skills.

Remember, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior stresses the importance of early puppy socialization. It is considered the standard of care for puppies to receive proper socialization before they are fully 16 weeks old. Start socializing your puppy early to ensure they grow up to be confident and well-adjusted dogs.

If your puppy hasn’t had his initial vaccinations and veterinarian clearance, you can still help your puppy get started with dog training in the comfort of your home. Talk to us at OLK9 Training Toledo for an in-depth puppy training consultation.

7 Best Dog-Friendly Stores Toledo, Ohio

dog-friendly store in Toledo

7 Best Dog-Friendly Stores in Toledo, Ohio

Are you looking for dog-friendly stores in Toledo that will allow you to shop with your dog? For a long time, most establishments you would visit would have a “No Dogs Except Service Dogs Allowed” sign in the front window or its variation. There were a few exceptions, mostly pet stores, and small, family-owned businesses. Fast forward to today. Pet ownership in the U.S. has increased, making businesses adjust their policies to accommodate the increasing number of pet owners. Gone are the days when you had to leave your canine companion at home whenever you wanted to grab a bite or shop. Now more and more stores are adopting dog-friendly policies. Here are the best dog-friendly stores in Toledo, Ohio, if you want to shop with your furry best friend.

Schramm’s Flowers & Gifts 

Schramm’s Flowers & Gifts was established in 1872 and has diligently served the Toledo area since then. The family-owned and operated flowers and gift shop offers the finest floral arrangements and gifts with friendly and prompt service. The professional staff ensures your experience is as pleasant as possible by going the extra mile to make your floral gift perfect. On top of that, the store allows dog owners to tag along with their beloved pets.

Lambertville Do It Best Hardware 

Lambertville Hardware is dog-friendly
Lambertville Hardware

The Oswald Family has owned Lambertville Hardware since the 1970s. They’re one of our all-time favorite dog-friendly stores in Toledo. The shop, which started as a small 1,000-square-foot store, has undergone many changes and is now a 20,000-square-foot hardware. The store’s knowledgeable staff are committed to providing outstanding service to everyone who comes through the door. The store is pet-friendly, and your furry best friend can join you as you peruse the aisles of garden supplies, BBQs, and tools.

Hoen’s Garden Center & Landscaping 

Hoen’s Garden Center & Landscaping is another dog-friendly store in Toledo-Ohio. The family-owned garden center and full-service landscaping enterprise offers various annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees, miniatures and pottery. Hoen’s Garden Center & Landscaping takes great pride in its enormous variety of potted flowers, hanging baskets, and custom potted containers. Leashed and well-behaved pups are welcome to peruse the aisles with you.

T.J. Maxx

The nationwide clothing retailer is located in Holland, OH. T.J. Maxx has a dog-friendly policy where leashed dogs and pups small enough to sit in a shopping cart can accompany their owners into the store. Browse the aisles for a wide selection of brand-name apparel, accessories, homeware, shoes, and more.

Gathering Volumes

Gathering Volumes is a family-owned, community-based, independent bookstore serving the Perrysburg, OH area. All the books on the shelf are carefully and personally chosen by Perrysburg buyers based on customer feedback. Gathering Volumes is the place to be when you want to meet up with friends or spend a few hours surrounded by great books. The store even has a dog-friendly policy for dog owners who want to enjoy a good read in the company of their furry friend.

Handmade Toledo

Handmade Toledo is a creative multipurpose space featuring a handmade maker shop and a workshop space for all sorts of handmade, make-and-take classes, gallery space, and maker studio spaces. The store also doubles up as an event space for art-related events, allowing makers and artists to be part of a like-minded, inspiring community. Dog owners can bring their canine sidekicks.

Fresh Thyme Market

Fresh Thyme Market was established in 2012 to improve how communities eat by offering healthy and fresh food at an amazing value. The grocery store and natural food marketplace provide healthy food options with an atmosphere reminiscent of a local farmer’s market. The store is committed to offering Clean Label products free from flavors, artificial colorings, and preservatives. They carry items catering to various consumers from vegan, keto, paleo, vegetarian, and wheat-and gluten-free diets. You’re welcome to browse the healthy food options with your dog since the grocery store has a dog-friendly policy. This definitely a fan-favorite when it comes to dog-friendly stores in Toledo.

What to Consider When Looking for Dog-Friendly Stores in Toledo  

Shopping with your canine buddy at a dog-friendly store can be an unforgettable experience for both of you. However, you must consider some things before putting your pup on a leash and dragging them to a nearby store.

Taking your dog into places where there are lots of people for the first time can be a scary experience for them. From your dog’s point of view, the store is full of strangers, lots of activities, new smells, distractions, and unfamiliar noises, not to mention all the strangers who want to pet him.

Your dog must be well-trained to handle such situations. If our dog is fearful and shows signs of anxiety, it can be a terrible shopping experience for you. At the same time, if your dog barks excessively, pulls on their leash, knocks things over, and isn’t potty trained, it will be an awful experience for the rest of the people.

If that’s the case, you need to consider professional dog training. A professional dog trainer will work with your dog to eliminate problem behaviors that may make it difficult to take your pup to places where they might meet strangers and other dogs. Off Leash K9 Training of Toledo is the best dog training company in Toledo, Ohio, specializing in high-level, precision obedience training under distraction.

Our training offers you and your pup exceptional obedience that allows you to bring them anywhere with you, be it a noisy restaurant or a crowded store. We offer a 4-week basic obedience training program to teach your dog basic commands and an 8-week advanced obedience training course that goes beyond basic commands. We also offer aggression and anxiety training for dogs that react aggressively toward strangers or other dogs. 

Besides that, we have an immersive one-week and two-week board and train program where your dog boards with a pro trainer for a few weeks to modify bad behavior. Since all our training is off-leash and under distraction, you’re guaranteed a 100% obedient, 100% off-leash, and 100% distraction-proof pup, regardless of your dog’s size, breed, and age.

10 Best Dog Friendly Restaurants in Toledo, Ohio

Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants by Off Leash K9 Training Toledo

10 Best Dog Friendly Restaurants in Toledo, Ohio

Ribs. Brisket. Mac and cheese. Seafood. Beans. Slaw. Sweet tea. Toledo, Ohio, is a melting pot of everything good from culture, history, good food, and liberal ideals. Whether you are looking for a place to unwind with a few drinks with friends, a romantic date night spot, or a top-notch breakfast joint, Toledo has plenty of amazing restaurants, cafes, and bars. As a dog owner, it’s heartbreaking to go out for a bite or a beer and leave your pup at home. Luckily, Toledo is quickly becoming popular as a forward-thinking, progressive area, with one of the main topics of discussion being adopting pet-friendly policies and establishments. As a result, the city is quickly transforming into a pet-owners paradise. There are plenty of places with spacious patios that are welcoming to dogs and other pets. Some even put out bowls of water and treats so your dog has their own dining experience as you enjoy your food and drinks. So, next time you are on a walk with your furry friend, here are the best dog-friendly restaurants in Toledo, Ohio, you can quickly pop into for a bite.

Ye Olde Durty Bird 

Ye Olde Durty Bird is one of the best dog-friendly restaurants in Toledo, Ohio. It has been rated among Toledo’s best gastropub restaurants. This popular establishment specializes in hearty bar food, including wings, sandwiches, sliders, steaks, and burgers. They have a large outdoor patio where your dog can lounge as you enjoy great food and live music.

Pita Pit

Nelson Lang, the founder of Pita Pit, made the first pita in 1995 in Ontario, Canada. His vision was to provide a healthy alternative to fast food joints. The “fresh thinking” concept was such a success that he established multiple franchises in Canada starting in 1997 before venturing into the United States market in 1999. Pita Pit USA, Inc. was finally established in 2005. Today, there are over 200 Pita Pit restaurants in multiple states across the US. Featuring classic menu choices like buffalo chicken pita, souvlaki, gyro, and a fantastic collection of artisan pitas, the Pita Pit restaurant in Toledo is a great place to stop for a bite with your furry best friend.

The Flying Joe

The Flying Joe was established in 2007 at 215 North Summit St, Toledo. It is one of Toledo’s best caffeinated thirst-quencher spots. Here you can enjoy everything from live bands to tastings. The Flying Joe is heavily focused on education and experience, ensuring that every occasion is an adventure you’ll want to recreate again and again. On top of that, they are open to allowing pet owners to bring their pets along.

Swig

Swig is a fun and unique bar hosting some of the most talented musical guests. The establishment has been running for almost a decade and has become a popular spot among locals. Enjoy their homemade sausages, gourmet appetizers, hand-crafted sauces, and chocolate-covered sundae. The best thing about Swig is that they have an open-door policy that allows pet owners to tag along with their pets for an unforgettable dining experience.

Tim Hortons

Located at Reynolds Rd, Toledo, Tim Hortons has its roots in Canada but has multiple locations across the United States. Here, you can indulge in their legendary coffee, plus delicious lunch plates. The Toledo location has dog-friendly seating, with tables on the outdoor patio. Feel free to order from their extensive menu that includes hash browns, breakfast wraps, sandwiches, flavor-filled donuts, and light oatmeal bowls. Their lunch options include wraps, paninis, and bowls of comfort food like Homestyle Chili.

Hamburger Mary’s

Hamburger Mary’s is a popular LGBTQ-friendly bar and eatery that also serves as a dog-friendly restaurant in Toledo, Ohio. The establishment features entertainment like their famous ‘Dining with the Divas’ drag shows. Their menu options include flatbread pizzas, burgers, sliders, sandwiches, appetizers, salads, soups, and more. Your dog is welcome to join you at one of the outdoor pet-friendly tables while you enjoy your evening.

Cousino’s Steakhouse

The Cousino’s Steakhouse is located in the southeast area of Toledo. It is a popular spot when you want to indulge in perfectly cooked steaks, burgers, and seafood. That coupled with their sensational sides and “sharables,” your night out with your pup will be a night you will want to re-live again.

Maumee Bay Brew Pub 

Maumee Bay Brew Pub is a popular pet-friendly restaurant and bar serving locals and visitors in the Toledo area. Enjoy giant soft pretzels and dips, onion rings, potato skins, burgers, wood-fired pizza, and a classic salad with an ice-cold beer.

Kobe Bay

Kobe Bay is a dog-friendly waterfront restaurant located on the banks of the Maumee River. Your dog is welcome to join you at one of the outdoor tables in the large open seating area. The restaurant offers a fusion of different cuisines, including Asian delicacies, seafood, and barbecue dishes. Kobe Bay’s weekend specials, like their Georgia pulled pork sandwiches or seafood boils, make weekends even more fun.

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt

Located at 5908 W Sylvania Ave, Toledo, OH, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt serves up freshly made creamy treats. Your dog is welcome to join you at one of their pet-friendly tables as you indulge in the delicious treats. You can choose from various decadent flavors: butter toffee, bananas foster, cinnamon sticky bun, praline pecan, maple walnut, peanut butter, jelly, or thin mint. If that doesn’t do it for you, then maybe a large scoop of homemade rich, gourmet chocolate-covered ice cream will.

What To Do Before You Take Your Dog to a Dog-Friendly Restaurant

Off Leash K9 Training Best of ToledoPet ownership in the United States has grown over the years. Today about 90.5 million families across the US own pets, which has seen more and more pet owners bring their pets along to share in their everyday experiences outside their homes. Because of that, cities and lawmakers have had to adjust the laws. Today, the rules and city ordinances regarding where one can take their pet vary, which has led to an increase in pet-friendly establishments like hotels and restaurants.

Even so, it’s your responsibility as the dog owner to ensure that your dog can comfortably dine with you at the various pet-friendly restaurants in your area. Toledo has its fair share of dog-friendly restaurants, as you have seen. Most of them will allow your dog to accompany you as long as you stick to the outdoor dining areas. However, there are a few things you must bear in mind when preparing to bring your pup to your favorite eatery.

First, before you take your dog anywhere, some basic training is required. Responsible pet ownership is about training your pup to handle situations outside your home. The sooner you teach your dog manners, the better it will be for you when you go out for a bite with them. Second, ensure that your dog is well-socialized before you bring them to one of the dog-friendly restaurants in Toledo. Dogs who are fearful of strangers, other dogs, and loud noises should only be brought to restaurants once they are properly socialized.

You want your pup to feel comfortable regardless of the environment. At the same time, dogs who tend to jump on tables or people or who bark excessively may end up disrupting other patrons’ dining. Lastly, you must ensure that your pup can stay calm regardless of what is happening around them. Restaurants have so many activities going on. So, the question to ask yourself before you step out of the door with your dog is whether they can handle distractions.

Fortunately, you don’t have to carry the burden of training your dog alone. Off Leash K9 Training of Toledo is your best bet to ensure that your dog is trained in basic obedience, how to handle distractions, and aggression issues. Our Toledo Dog Trainers are part of the highest-rated dog training community in the US. We specialize in dog behavior consultationsprivate lessons, and teaching dog owners how to understand their pets better. Our packages include basic and advanced obedience trainingaggression and anxiety training, and puppy training consultation.

With Off Leash K9 Training of Toledo, your dog will be trained to have a similar level of obedience as police and military working dogs. All our training is done off-leash and with distractions, giving your pup the best possible chance of being in a position to handle all types of situations and environments. Enroll your dog in one of our training programs, and you never again have to dread taking them to one of the dog-friendly restaurants in Toledo.

The Importance of Corrections in Dog Training

behavior corrections dog training toledo

How to do corrections in Dog Training. All you have to do is a quick search on the internet to find a sea of people with the opinion that you should never correct your dog…that corrections are abusive and outdated, and that “new methods” of positive reinforcement are the be-all/end-all of dog training. Even current literature outlining the behavioral science of operant conditioning (which is applied to dogs across the board in a way I don’t fully agree with) lean towards telling the reader that modern trainers should avoid corrections. All these people claim that “science” is on their side. Good luck trying to find any of the studies cited in these texts or posts. The “studies” that CAN be found are so fundamentally flawed that it’s a stretch at the least to call them scientific.Dog Training Corrections 279x300 1

“All positive” training is an ideology that has completely taken hold in the dog training industry, much of which is based on an emotional reaction to pressuring dogs and a complete misunderstanding and lack of experience with correction. This is unfortunate, as the truth is both correction and reward have been around as long as people have been training dogs (a very long time), and a mixture of both is still, and always will be, the best approach to a great relationship with our canine companions.

Reward-based training, while a great tool to shape behavior and increase motivation, simply does not produce reliable obedience in the majority of pet dogs when used alone. In fact, using strictly reward based methodology can actually help CREATE behavior problems. Every week I take on new clients that have already been through “all positive” training programs. They spend week after week or even month after month in classes. While the dogs certainly learn commands, most only comply when they want the reward being offered and the client has a pocketful of treats. However as soon as a distraction (competing motivator) is introduced, such as another dog or company at the door, the client dog may as well have never heard a command before. In essence, the dog doesn’t think it has to play the game, and rightly so! In fact, it’s not fair to the dog for us to expect obedience in these scenarios if only reward-based methods have been used. More than one of my clients have had their dogs in classes for up to six months before giving our program a try and the dogs wouldn’t even “come” and “sit” outside, let alone anything else. There is a key differentiator between teaching your dog a trick for a treat and obedience training under distraction. Many of my clients NEED their dogs to obey commands under distraction because their dogs are large and powerful, and otherwise extremely hard to control. The rest simply want to experience the joy of a well-trained dog!

I’m convinced that most positive reinforcement trainers have only the best intentions at heart, yet lack experience and the understanding of corrections. They have been taught that corrections are abusive, and will damage your relationship with the dog. They use terms such as “shock collar”, describing trainers “shocking a dog into submission”. Unfortunately, many “trainers” are also to blame for these misconceptions. They DO use corrective tools this way, which is WRONG on so many levels. However, any tool can be misused, including a leash and collar, or even body language and voice! Again, it comes down to a lack of experience. Take a look at my many before/after videos and you’ll see dogs running to me when released from a command…not the other way around. You don’t see dogs that have been forced to submit…you see dogs that have been taught rules and boundaries through fair communication, and now have MUCH more freedom because of it.

I’m always surprised when debating with treat trainers while how utilizing an eCollar is completely off the table, they are perfectly willing to startle the dogs they train with water bottles, loud noises, or even yelling at the dog. I recently attended an all-day seminar by a world-famous trainer who suggested screaming at the dog while getting on the ground and throwing a tantrum…I’m not kidding here. These people are so against any form of correction that it’s becoming ridiculous. Screaming at a dog or flailing around to startle the dog completely goes against my philosophy. Confidence building is a critical aspect of dog training, and startling a dog can have many unwanted consequences. Doesn’t it sound more reasonable, and clear to the dog, to use small amounts of pressure to communicate what we do not want the dog to do?

A distinction also has to be made when defining correction. A trainer should in most scenarios not be using pressure as a punishment but as a communication tool. The trainer should simply be attempting to elicit the desired response from the dog with pressure being one of several factors of communication during the process. The key here, and this is critical, is the level of pressure. This pressure can come in many forms; spatial pressure, leash pressure, etc. Another form of pressure can be administered through the proper use of an electronic collar. My clients are always surprised by the level of correction we use when working with an electronic collar. In many cases, the clients cannot even feel the level of stimulation we are using when holding the collar in their palms. In many cases what this stimulation equates to is leash pressure. In fact, this is exactly how we use an eCollar much of the time…just like a leash and collar. Think about how much pressure your dog is exerting on the neck while pulling on the leash when taking YOU for a walk. Properly used, the pressure from an eCollar should be nowhere near this level.

Utilizing both reward and pressure, a trainer is able to resolve many behaviors that for most dogs cannot be fixed by tempting the dog with a reward alone. One of the most satisfying aspects of my job is resolving fear/anxiety and aggression issues. Yes, utilizing pressure can and does help resolve anxiety in dogs! I’ve worked with many dogs that have been turned away by all positive training programs, with owners being told that the dog is “untrainable”, or in extreme cases needs to be put down! I understand how these trainers came to that conclusion as they ran out of options when the dog wasn’t interested in the reward being offered in the face of the stimuli that was causing the dog to react. It’s always extremely rewarding to see an owner’s reaction after a session or two with us (in many cases as their last resort due to the misconceptions outlined above) when their dog does a complete 180…in their words transforming into a “completely different dog”!

The benefits of working with both reward and pressure far outweigh any reservations one might have with a good trainer (do your research!) pressuring their dog. A well-trained dog gets to spend more time with the family, even when company arrives! The dog can run around freely in the yard and be recalled with just a word. The dog can travel with the family. The dog can be walked down the street without a head halter forcing the dog away from distractions. All this with no concern from the owner about what may happen if the leash gets dropped. Both the dog and owner can now live happier lives, with the bond between the two becoming that much greater!

Dog training is an art. There are no hidden secrets as many would lead you to believe. Like any art, it is a nuanced skill developed with time, experience, and a true passion for the craft. Knowing how much pressure to use with a dog comes from experience alone, and each dog is different. Dog owners should always seek the help of a professional and never try techniques on their own where mistakes can be made. This is where positive reinforcement shines…you literally cannot mess it up. Don’t get me wrong, good positive reinforcement trainers have spent a lot of time mastering timing, presentation and other critical skills, and many are extremely good at what they do! What I am saying is that you aren’t going to see any negative consequences if these skills are lacking. However, strictly using positive reinforcement confines the trainer to only a small portion of the many tools available. As I stated earlier it’s also not a fair method of communicating with the dog, as the dog is essentially either interested in what you have or not…no obedience has been taught. In the end, the results/obedience achieved with most pet dogs using only positive reinforcement reflect these facts, which is why so many people seek our training after trying these methods.

 

– Daniel Carter

eCollar Demonstration

ecollar training toledo

Below is a short eCollar Demonstration, lighthearted video showing a small portion of a presentation I recently gave. This talk focused on pressure and motivation in dog training, and the clip below highlights the eCollar portion. I am regularly asked about eCollars and am constantly educating the public on how we use them here at Off Leash K9 Training, Toledo.

Many potential clients are concerned that the eCollar will hurt or scare their dogs, but are then completely on board once they experience for themselves the level of pressure we are using with this tool.

The eCollar is just exactly that; a tool. It’s only one of many tools in a toolbox full of tools, and it’s just ONE aspect of our training program. Can we train your dog without using this tool? Of course! However, once our program is fully explained and demonstrated, virtually none of my clients have opted to abandon its use!
– Daniel Carter

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