Training is the most important thing you can do for your dog, yourself and your relationship. This is the one thing you definitely want to get right. Positive reinforcement is the only way one should train. It is scientifically proven to work. It also increases your bond with your dog. It makes your dog more secure and able to trust you. It also brings out the absolute best in your dog and allows them to feel confident enough to try new things. Have a look below for Chapala Bay's Training Booklet.
Most TV training is not good. It looks like it works due to seemingly reasonable explanation. If you understand canine body language and watch with the sound off, you’ll see the dogs are not ok. The dogs just shut down, fearful and therefore unpredictable. It is a sad life for a dog who can’t trust their person. That dog can’t attain it’s potential. Please, do not use these methods on any dog. They are not based on science and are not good.
The best way to find a good trainer is to first look at their credentials. A good start is to look at CPDT, Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.
If they have the CPDT-Ka designation, that is a very good start. That means they have a certification and extensive training. They have committed to science based, positive reinforcement training. You can also check their site to find a trainer in your area. Look for trainers who belong to local force free alliances. Click here to go to CPDT site.
Be careful of trainers who say they are “balanced”, that often means punishment. Also trainers who say they use “gentle” correction. That often means shock collars. Correction training is not good. They do sometimes come across as credible if you don’t know what to look for. Do your homework and you will have a happy, well adjusted dog!
Here are some links to some world renowned trainers;
Click here to go to Jane Killion's Puppy Culture site
Click here to go to Suzanne Clothier's site
Click here to go to Turid Ruugas' site
Click here to go to Nicole Wilde's site
Click here to go to Ian Dunbar's site
Please contact us for great training options for your dog. We have some great recommendations for Calgary and Edmonton.
Chapala Bay Puppy Training 2024 (pdf)
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