WELCOME
Training your dog is not just about having your dog perform behaviours you like and removing the ones you don't like. It is about building a relationship that will develop trust, respect, understanding and of course fun. Training today has evolved into a much more positive approach. Gone are the days of using force and coercion where the animal is always cautious, inhibited and afraid to make mistakes. Instead, much research by top scientists have led us to the discovery that operant conditioning is the best way to train all mammals. This concept is not a new one. It was discovered by BF Skinner back in the 60's but has only been brought to the surface by dolphin trainer Karen Pryor
(www.clickertraining.com). Her work has changed the way we train animals. Not just in our homes but in zoos and aquariums all over the world. She discovered that animals are creative thinkers and we can use this to tap into the behaviours we would like to see. Her methods have made a huge impact on the amount of shelter animals that are being rescued. Dogs that are thought to be impossible to change are being saved and lead happy, fulfilling lives. But, change is difficult and crossing over from one training method to a new one is not easy. Many people are skeptical but the proof is abundant. Zoo keepers can now perform tasks on zoo animals without the use of tranquilizers. This to me, is proof enough that operant conditioning works and is more humane than any other method of training.
While using operant conditioning training methods, you will see your canine companion become excited when training begins and not submissive because they know pain may be involved. Your dog will start offering the behaviours that have been heavily reinforced (rewarded) and the bad behaviours will start to diminish. In the process, your dog will become confident and creative along with trusting you and knowing that training is safe and fun. Does this type of training mean you can never say "no" ? Not at all ! Animals do it everyday to each other but what I can't believe is that my control will extend to periods when I am not around. Positive is not the same as being permissive. But operant trainers tend to manage the environment as an alternative to punishment especially when the dog has not learned the behaviour yet - no different then putting those plugs in the light sockets until the baby is older and learns what light sockets are all about.
You have a choice to make - train using your dog's brain or with pain. I know what choice my dog would make if he was able, how about yours??
BARB MAJA, CPDT-KA
(Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed)
Why train your dog?
