REWARDS
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​Research has shown that a positive, rewards-based training approach quickly develops balanced, secure, eager- to-please dogs. Rewards can range from food treats to a belly rub to playing ball, or going on a walk. It all depends on what your dog loves. In order to receive these rewards, it is of the utmost importance your dog EARNS them. There can be no "free ride" if your dog is to be responsive, behaved, and eager-to-please. There was a time when dogs had specific jobs, they had a purpose and were well-balanced because of it. They were bred to guard property, hunt vermin, herd livestock and were rewarded for performing these jobs well. In our modern lives, these jobs are no longer available to them, at least in L.A. However, the need to do these jobs is still in their D.N.A. It is very frustrating, for a dog, to not be able to perform a job that is ingrained in them. This is when behavioral issues rear their ugly heads. Your dog's job description must now change to focus on you, respond to your obedience cues, and be a well-mannered companion. Only when they do their job, should they be rewarded.
EXERCISE
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Dogs need 45 minutes to 1 1/2 hours of daily exercise, time frame dependent on the breed, age and personality of the dog. Even the most obedient dog will become rambunctious, depressed, or frustrated, not to mention fat, if they aren't exercised. A tired dog is a well-balanced, happy dog. What we often forget is that dogs need mental exercise as well. Keeping your dog's mind engaged and challenged will tire him out more quickly than physical activity!
CONSISTENCY
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Much like humans, dogs are more confident and secure when there is consistency in their lives. Through practical and standardized techniques, we’ll show you how to provide the consistency needed by clearly communicating the positive behavior you wish your dog to retain and those behaviors you wish to restrain. We will show you how to send a consistent message to your dog so that they always know what is expected from them.
ONCE
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​While obedience training is essential in maintaining a well-balanced dog, instructing your canine to respond the first time a cue is given is most important. Simply put, cues should be said ONCE...always. When you repeat cues, your dog's thinking is, "Why should I respond the first time or respond at all! Dad/Mom will say it a few more times anyway and still reward me." Or she thinks, "Whatever is distracting me is more rewarding than the reward Dad/Mom has." Teaching your dog to respond the first time a cue is given strengthens your leadership role, which in turn makes your dog more focused, secure and develop a strong need to please.
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