Off-leash training is a transition because it is, most definitely, a slow process. It would be nice if we could just reach down, unsnap the leash, and know that your dog would instantly obey the commands “Come”, “Sit”, “Down”, “Stay”, and “Heel”. Regardless of how proficient a dog may be in basic obedience while attached […]
Off-Leash Training (Part 3)
Making A Correction While Using The “A” Line The only difference between the “A” line and the “B” line is the thickness and weight of each. Shifting the “B” line gave the dog a feeling of freedom as compared to the weight and thickness of the six-foot training leash. The “A” line will give your […]
Are Puppy Kindergarten Classes Necessary? You Be The Judge (Part 3)
Puppy classes also provide a wonderful opportunity for puppies to get to know other people and puppies. This early socialization is vital for the puppy’s general well-being as it grows up. Puppies that are exposed to a variety of people learn that people come in all shapes, sizes, colors and ages, and that people are […]
Off-Leash Training (Part 2)
The “Stay” Command Using The “B” Line While executing the “Stay” command while the “B” line (five-foot long nylon line with the thickness similar to a kite string) is in use, you will have the advantage of stepping out more than just a leash length away. Because the “B” line is five feet long and […]
Off-Leash Training (Part 1)
For those of you with dogs that are trained to heel accordingly, you are ready to make the transition into off-leash training. What You Will Need You will need two pieces of rope, five feet in length each. One of the pieces of rope should be strong and preferably made of nylon. The nylon line […]
Obedience Training: Not Just For Show Dogs
The time is now for the public to understand that obedience training is not just for pure bred show dogs or those dogs used for services like police work, public service, and military missions. If fact, it is surprising that so many owners of mixed-breed dogs feel that their dog isn’t “good enough” or “acceptable” […]
Are Puppy Kindergarten Classes Necessary? You Be The Judge (Part 2)
Most puppy kindergarten classes introduce you and your puppy to the basic obedience commands that will be used throughout the dog’s life. The most common include sit, down, stay, come and heel. Other commands may include watch me and leave it. Ideally, the puppy-class instructor will demonstrate each command, showing you how to teach your […]
Loose-Leash Training: The Most Effective Way To Train Your Dog (Part 5)
A final tip to help you with loose-leash training your dog is about helping your dog to walk in a specific spot. Dawn Jecs, dog trainer and owner of Choose To Heel in Puyallup, Washington, teaches dogs to walk in a certain spot in relation to the handler. When they’re in that spot, the leash […]
Loose-Leash Training: The Most Effective Way To Train Your Dog (Part 4)
When on-leash, your dog needs to learn to walk with you, not against you. To keep the leash loose, the dog needs to stay tuned to your verbal and hand signals, and pace itself to your speed. Michelle Kirk, a local pet sitter in Pacific Beach of San Diego, California, uses a training clicker (a […]
Loose-Leash Training: The Most Effective Way To Train Your Dog (Part 3)
Walking Toward A Goal On any walking route, certain places are especially attractive to dogs. When dogs near those places, their excitement increases and the urge to pull is strong. You can use those places both as walking goals and training rewards. Start toward the attractive goal, such as a bush or clump of grass […]
