Frequently Asked Questions

Does my dog really need training?

Yes! And so do you! Dogs and puppies are naturally curious and learn from their environment even if what they are learning is not intended. They learn their behavior has rewards or consequences and learn to associate what events go together (picking up a leash must mean a walk!) Training will help you understand how your dog learns and help him understand what behavior you like.

What is clicker training?

Clicker training is an extremely effective method of communicating with animals based on the science of operant conditioning. It has been used for years to train dolphins and other animals including chickens. This form of training is an excellent example of how physical force is not necessary when training your dog.

Do I have to use a clicker?

The clicker is simply a tool to 'mark' a behavior. It often helps make training faster because it is a novel sound to the dog, isolates an instant of behavior which is necessary for clear communication to the dog and helps the handler perfect their timing in training. The clicker is used to teach a behavior and once the behavior is learned, the clicker is faded or used to teach a new behavior. When animals learn to learn this way, it opens up an enormous world for you and them. It creates a well-educated dog - a dog that can learn to offer the right behavior instead of having to constantly be told what to do.

I don't have a lot of extra time. Won't training take a long time?

Consistency and clear communication are more important than the amount of time you spend doing "training sessions". We recommend short 5-10 minute sessions as many times a day as possible. Just like any activity, the more you and your dog practice, the better and more reliable you will both be.

I have had my dog for a few years now. Isn't he too old to learn?

No! You can teach an old dog new tricks. Training also helps to strengthen the bond between owner and dog. Your dog will be happier and less likely to develop behavior problems if he or she is trained. Optimally, the easiest time to train is when your dog is a puppy but older dogs can learn just as well.

Are you one of the 'positive only' trainers? I have heard that positive reinforcement trainers never correct the dog. Isn't that unrealistic?

Positive reinforcement is not permissive. It does not mean the dog 'gets away' with anything. It simply means that the primary training tool is to teach the dog the correct behavior you want and to reward or reinforce that behavior so the dog learns that it is good to offer that behavior. All animals do what works for them. Humans are included in that!
Understanding the difference between punishment and corrections is very important. A punisher is something an animal will try and avoid. Using punishers effectively is very important. Delivered inappropriately, they can be counter-productive to your training and damage the relationship between you and your dog. In addition, focusing only on punishment can teach the dog to avoid certain behaviors when the owner is present. For example, dogs who consistently potty in the house but are never caught in the act are usually dogs who have been not been properly trained to eliminate outside. Thus they have learned to not do the behavior in the owner's presence.
Making sure your trainer has a solid understanding of learning theory and the correct use of classical and operant conditioning is imperative to training success.