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A step by step look at the 4-class

"Pack Leader" training style.

 

Below is an in-depth look at what happens during each training session. Every session will bring on new challenges for both the owner and their dog. You and your dog will be set up for success each session with careful planning that is geared specifically to what you want to achieve. The Pack Leader style of training will help you and your dog have a lifetime together based on trust, loyalty, respect, and affection. 

* Please note that each dog and their owner learn at different levels and that in order to move to next level both owner and their dog must show proficiency in the prior class. A commitment to practice helps achieve results faster but we will never push the dog or it's owner onto the next level if they just aren't ready. Patience and practice together are the driving forces of achieving goals!

Training Class 1

In the 1st class we will discuss your goals for you and your dog. We will also go into detail about the philosophy of "Pack Leadership." I will observe your dog in his environment and begin to understand your relationship. We will also address any immediate issues that need attention. We will then discuss which training gear is right for you and how to work with the equipment. We will also talk about the amount of exercise that is right for your dog's energy level and develop a plan on how to achieve this. I will then teach you how to walk your dog on a leash. This is the most important step in pack leader training. The rules of exercise, discipline, and affection are all taught during the walk. The walk will begin to remove any pent-up energy, which in turn, allows the dog to relax. A relaxed dog is a good dog.  It also teaches your dog to follow you which will establish and solidify your role as 'pack leader." Finally, the walk also helps create a stronger bond between you and your dog as you do this activity together. You will find that your dog begins to love the walk because he gets to spend time with YOU, and all dogs want is to bond with their pack.

Training Class 2

The 2nd class is usually done 7-10 days later. At this time we will discuss any issues/concerns/questions that have come up since the last visit and address how to correct them. We will go on the "pack walk' to exercise your dog and allow me time to review your skills and help you make any adjustments. We will then begin to train on the sit/stay commands. We start this in a fairly neutral environment to keep your dog engaged. Your dog will be ready to learn this after a week or so of following their Pack Leader on the walk. We go over a clear step by step process on how to sit/stay. This begins to teach your dog how to resist urges and use self control. It's like meditation for dogs. It helps balance an excited dog by having them sit still.This is where we begin to use your voice and energy to work with your dog as opposed to the leash. It takes patience and a stable,calm,confident energy to do this. As your dogs gets better you will begin to add stimulus to the situation again testing your dogs ability for self control while also teaching them to defer to you as Pack Leader and that you know what is best for the pack. 

Training Class 3

The 3rd class is usually done 10-14 days after the previous class. In this class we again start by addressing any questions/concerns/issues and discuss the proper solution. We will go on a "pack walk" but this time we will add a twist by bringing my dogs along! We then get to see how your dog does with other's on a leash and make any adjustments along the way. By this time your leash skills will be getting pretty good so by increasing stimulation you get to practice teaching your dog self control while keeping your energy stable/calm/assertive! After the walk we will go back to the sit/stay exercise but again adding stimulation. We may add toys/food/or even other dogs to the mix. We will also work with you being in the room and away. This again tests your dogs ability to use self control. Then you will learn the 'come' command. I will show you a step by step process on how to do this. We begin in a controlled environment and eventually move to longer distances and,when ready, more stimulus. 

 

 

 

Training Class 4

The 4th class is recommended 14 days after the previous class. We again go over any issues/questions and discuss a proper course of action. We will do the "pack walk" but this time we may meet at a park or another place that allows dogs in order to increase stimulus. We will practice sit/stay/come but again with more stimulation. We then begin to discuss requirements for the Canine Good Citizenship Test. By this point your dog will be very close to being ready to pass this test if you choose. you may find the requirements here 

 

 

There is much more to learn depending on 

your desire to go further and I am happy to help you both along that path but at this point you have established yourself as the "Pack Leader" and you and your dog have a solid foundation on which you can grow. You have used the tools of exercise,discipline,and affection to create a healthy relationship between you and your dog that will last your entire time together. 

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