Choosing the Right Dog Training Method

You may have seen discussions on social media about balanced training versus force-free training, and you might be wondering where you stand. I believe in using methods that resonate with you while also considering what is best for the dog in front of us. It’s not important to label yourself; what truly matters is finding a dog training method that you are comfortable with and understand.

But what should you consider when going on this journey?

Consider the following aspects of your dog training journey:

1. What are your training goals? What specific goals do you have for your dog’s training? What do you hope to achieve?

2. What are your restrictions? Identify any limitations you may face, such as available tools, financial constraints, or legal regulations.

3. What are your values? What principles are important to you in the training process?

4. What are your available resources? What training materials, support systems, seminars, or online dog training schools are available to you?

Advice that shaped my journey as a trainer

1. Avoid receiving advice and following it blindly. Receiving advice can be challenging. While many people mean well, their suggestions may not always be beneficial for you and your dog. I’ve experienced both positive and negative outcomes from listening to others. It’s crucial to find a mentor or trainer whose methods align with your values and can help you succeed. Remember, it’s okay to politely decline advice that doesn’t resonate with you or your goals. Standing up for yourself and your dog is important. If you follow the advice, try to understand the method behind it and follow through if it aligns with your values.

2. Make sure to educate yourself. The internet is full of knowledge, and there are many online dog training schools on various topics accessible to us.

3. Observe Other Trainers. Watching others train their dogs can be incredibly beneficial. There’s real value in this experience. You can see trainers with different skill sets, various backgrounds, and dogs that might present more or fewer challenges than your own. Be open and absorb what you see. By observing, you’ll discover what resonates with you and what techniques you prefer or dislike.

4. Attend seminars, and if possible, take your dog along to work with in front of the group. Observe and listen to others; this experience can inspire a deep desire to train your own dog. However, be cautious not to change your training method every time you feel motivated by a new trainer, as this can confuse your dog. Consistency is essential, so ensure you follow through with your training approach.

5. Lastly, my training methods can vary significantly from one dog to another. For my detection dogs, I often use free shaping, while for my sport dogs, I rely more on luring. I assess each dog’s individual goals to determine which method will most effectively help me develop the specific behaviours I aim to achieve. Additionally, I follow different trainers and seek advice from those specializing in the specific discipline I am training my dog in, as there are many skilled trainers with expertise in various areas.

I hope this will give you a push in the right direction.