What training tools do you use?
Bonker – This homemade tool, created from a rolled towel and rubber bands, is used as a soft, safe projectile. The tool can be used to startle the dog and break a cycle of whining by throwing the bonker at the dog’s kennel.
Carabiner – In the rare case the dog’s prong collar pops off, the carabiner will keep them safe and attached to their leash. The carabiner attaches to the dead ring on the prong collar (O-shaped ring) and the D-ring on the dog’s flat buckle collar. When on walks, always have them wear both the prong collar and their flat buckle collar.
E-Collar – Also called a remote collar, E-Collar Technologies brand electronic collars use low-level electrical stimulation, paging and vibration to allow handlers to communicate with dogs of all sizes and temperaments. When used correctly, e-collars are the most effective, most humane, most reliable and transformational training tools available today. E-collar contact points and collar straps are selected based on the length and thickness of the dog’s coat. The e-collar receiver should sit high up on the dog’s neck, to the right or left of their trachea.
Leash – Use a 4-ft or 6-ft nylon leash for the best grip. The handler can use either a two-handed or single-handed hold. A shorter length makes for an easier time holding the leash during a structured walk.
Pet Convincer – This handheld tool shoots a loud blast of compressed air when the trigger is pressed. Use the Pet Convincer for whining or barking in the crate, as well as redirecting or correcting dog on a walk. Aim for the dog’s shoulders or haunches, not their face. Another great use is scaring away off-leash dogs on walks. Getting rushed by an off-leash dog can be a major contributor to future leash reactivity issues, so always advocate for the dog’s safety (and your own)!
Prong Collar – Typically, a medium (3.0mm) Herm Sprenger prong collar is used with large to very large dogs and a small (2.25mm) Herm Sprenger prong collar is used with small to medium dogs. The prong collar has a martingale design, applying even pressure around the dog’s neck. The Herm Sprenger brand features smooth, rounded tips, allowing for fluid yet meaningful corrections. Prong collars are to be worn only when the dog is supervised. Always remove when crated or left alone.
Pull Tab – This short (6-in to 12-in), looped nylon leash is used with the prong collar to enforce commands when indoors. Once the dog has graduated from dragging a 4-ft leash indoors, use the pull tab and prong collar until corrections indoors are no longer regularly needed.
Why do you use prong collars?
Prong collars are the best, most effective tool for connecting and communicating with all sizes of dogs with the least amount of physical stress on the dog and the owner. Used correctly, especially in teaching loose-leash walking, prong collars are more effective and more humane than flat nylon collars or harnesses.
Why do you use remote collars?
We implement low-level, communication-style remote collar training. Modern remote collar training, using E-Collar Technologies Easy Educator remote collars, is humane, effective and reliable. Our training looks nothing like the harsh “shock collar” training of the past.
What commands do you teach?
Climb – The dog stays on a bed or other object, regardless of distractions. “Stay” is built into the command. The dog may leave the object only when released. They can stand, sit or lay down, as long as all four paws remain on the object.
Come – The dog moves toward handler when called, regardless of distractions. Command is complete when the dog reaches the handler.
Down – Having the dog lay down anywhere, with or without a mat or bed. “Stay” is built into the command. The dog may only get up once they are released.
Free – The dog is completely free to do what they want. Used for feeding, during play, for free time, releasing into the yard, etc. Also used as a release from Sit, Down, Climb, or Kennel commands.
Good – Verbal marker for confirming the dog has correctly completed a behavior.
Heel – Specific position used on walks, with the dog’s head parallel to to the handler’s hip. The dog may only move from position once they are released.
Kennel – Used to get the dog to enter and remain inside the crate. Their entire body, including head, must remain inside the crate, even with the door open. The dog must wait for a release command before exiting.
Let’s Go – An alternate release word that means “Move with me.” Used for loose leash walking, through thresholds, out of the crate, off Climb command, etc.
No – A corrective word for any inappropriate behavior (barking, jumping, mouthing) or breaking of a command.
Out – The dog must drop any object from their mouth, such as a bone, chew, ball or other toy.
Sit – Used for a short duration on walks, before feeding, at thresholds, etc. “Stay” is built into the command. The dog may only get up once they are released.
Is there a guarantee with your training programs?
There are many variables in dog training — severity of behavior issues, owner commitment, environmental changes, etc. While we can’t offer a 100% guarantee, we purposefully choose to work with the most committed and diligent owners to ensure a high rate of success with our programs. We want clients to be just as excited to work with us as we are to work with them, and we work hand-in-hand with clients to achieve their training goals. Our commitment to owners doesn’t stop after our training programs end — we’re always here to help!