Canine behaviour is a dynamic field and I spend considerable time pursuing ongoing education and professional development by keeping current on all industry literature. This allows me to provide you and your dog with the most up to date developments. I exclusively use positive and non-confrontational training techniques. I do not use physical or verbal punishment, choke chains, pinch collars, e-collars, spray bottles or penny-cans.
Pain and discomfort are present approximately 80% of the time when dogs are displaying unwanted behaviours. Not only is it important to provide dogs with relief but it also has an impact on the success of behaviour change programs. This functional assessment is done via video and photo analysis and can thus be done in person or virtually. Your dog’s structure, posture, movement, gait and everyday activities are recorded and meticulously analysed. These findings are then compiled into a report which is forward to your veterinarian for further diagnostics.
Virtual on-line sessions are provided over live video chat in real time in the comfort of your home. This is a great option for you if you want to work with a certified behaviour consultant and trainer, especially if you do not have one in your area. Regardless of where you live, I can help you. If you live close by virtual sessions can be combined with in-house sessions, depending on your needs and goals.
Behaviour Consultations are sessions that are geared toward solving more complex behavioural concerns. During the initial consultation we will explore every aspect of your dog’s life to determine the source of the unwanted behaviour. We will then prepare a training program specific to the needs of you and your dog, and teach you how to help your dog overcome the areas of difficulty.
Individual training are one-on-one sessions with just you and your dog in the comfort of your home. We will start a series of lessons with an information gather sessions to determine your and your dog’s needs and a program will be designed accordingly. These sessions are usually reserved for dogs that might have difficulty working in a group environment. If your work schedule does not allow to attend a group class then individual training sessions are for you.
Clicker training is a positive reinforcement method that is a fun, interactive way of teaching your dog obedience and good behaviour and have him loving it at the same time. After the training process, compliance is not dependent on food or the clicker. Dogs that are very active and difficult to keep stimulated will also benefit greatly from this technique as it will have your dog utilising every bit of brain power he has! Clicker training is not just about using a clicker to train, it is a philosophy. It is not about tossing cookies and allowing dogs to be permissive. In order to truly clicker train you have to change old beliefs on how animals think and learn.
Contrary to popular belief, deaf dogs do not have diminished mental capabilities. Deaf dogs are even competing in sports such as agility, fly-ball and obedience. They are still smart and can process cues and signals, make associations and connect behaviour with consequences. Deaf dogs also experience emotions, form bonds and friendships and have needs and wants like any other dog. The principles behind training deaf dogs are the same as for dogs who can hear; the approach is just a little different. Just because your dog can’t hear does not mean he can’t be trained just as good as a hearing dog.
The Ttouch™ technique is an excellent way of bringing about positive behavioural, emotional and physical changes in your dog. It works with gentle, non-invasive stroking, lifting and manipulation of the dog’s skin, extremities and limbs, which we can teach you in a one-on-one session, or as part of a workshop. Ttouch™ consists of three elements namely bodywork, leading exercises and groundwork. To learn more about the other benefits and how the three elements could positively change your dog’s behaviour, click the button below.