What is "Balanced Training"?
Balanced Training simply put, is training utilizing all of the scientific principles of operant conditioning, classical conditioning (Pavlov) and any and all techniques associated! We HEAVILY start with and utlizie positive reinforcement only, tons of food love and play. Eventually, when the dog understands what we are asking of them, we move into the "you must" stage.
This is where "purely positive" trainers fail. We are not heavy handed, but there comes a point when the dog is going to choose to ignore you, even though they know what we are asking, and at that stage some form of correction is necessary!
It sounds scary but it really isn't! This system of training has proven to be the most effective way for any dog to learn, from your pet dog, to world class sport dogs and military working dogs.
What Tools May Be Used?
When it comes to dog training, it is important to remember that one size does not fit all; Having a large toolbox is key. Most people do not need to use training tools such as slip leads, pinch collars etc. But those that do, really do. We do NOT blanket every dog with the need for tools! However it is very difficult for some owners to teach loose leash walking without the use of some assistance.
The tools used will depend on what each dog responds best to as well as the goals you wish to accomplish. Every dog is different but using the appropriate tool and amount of pressure will vary from dog to dog!
We can teach you the use of pinch collars, slip leads and electric collars AKA E- Collars!
Will a Prong Collar Hurt My Dog?
No! Prong collars have a bad reputation. Do they look barbaric? Absolutely.
However, they are an excellent communication tool that will not hurt your dog when used correctly. Prong collars are actually the safest collar used properly for dogs to receive ample communication from the handler! A prong collar is designed to mimic a mother nipping the puppies neck as a correction and also applies the pressure consitently 100% around the dogs neck! A flat collar puts 100% of the pressure on the opposite side of where the leash attaches, and could damage the trachea and or cause whip lash!
We exclusively use Herm Sprenger collars as they are high quality and have rounded and smooth prongs.
We do NOT recommend the use of "gentle leaders" or head halters. There have been a lot of actual injuries such as whiplash and damage to the nasal cavity of the animal! They work by contoring the dogs body in an un-natural way; While shutting nervous dogs down even further.
We also do NOT recommend the use of harnesses for loose leash walking. A harness was designed for a dog to pull something, and its very hard to teach walking without pulling using one! Same for the clip in the front or "no pull" harnesses. They contort the dogs body in an un-natural way.
Will a Prong Collar Hurt My Dog?
No! Prong collars have a bad reputation. Do they look barbaric? Absolutely.
However, they are an excellent communication tool that will not hurt your dog when used correctly. Prong collars are actually the safest collar used properly for dogs to receive ample communication from the handler! A prong collar is designed to mimic a mother nipping the puppies neck as a correction and also applies the pressure consitently 100% around the dogs neck! A flat collar puts 100% of the pressure on the opposite side of where the leash attaches, and could damage the trachea and or cause whip lash!
We exclusively use Herm Sprenger collars as they are high quality and have rounded and smooth prongs.
More On E-Collars
E-collars have come a long way since their invention - modern e-collar training is nothing like it used to be! E-collars are the clearest, gentlest and most effective way to communicate to your dog, especielly in off-leash scenarios.
We exclusively use E-collar Technologies and Garmin products. These collars have an easy system with 100 or 10 (Garmin) levels of stimulation. Our training is done using the lowest possible stimulation for every scenario.
Can this tool be abused? Of course. So can a flat collar or a harness. E-collars open a new, clear, consistent line of communication between you and your dog even when there is no leash involved! It is the only tool giving you to possibility to reliably recall your dog at great distances.
All owners and dogs have the opportunity to see great success with e-collar training when used correctly and in an educated and humane manner.
Giving your dog the ultimate independence and off leash freedom is the goal! The quality of life gained from being able to safely control your dog in any setting is HUGE!
Keep in mind, though, the tool is only as strong as the training behind it! We will never recommend anyone use an e-collar without professional guidance.
Will My Dog Be "Fixed" After Training?
We will never claim to fix dogs - they are not broken! What we do work to fix is relationships; relationships between you and your dog and between your dog and the world around them. We will be there to give you the tools, knowledge and support to reach those goals. The long-term success of the training, though, really comes down to you and your commitment to putting in the work based on realistic goals!
Dogs are not computer programs! Even after a 4-6 week board and train, maintenance will be required to maintain the level of obedience obtained during training! It will be very short sessions and maintenance training in comparison to the length and nature to the board and train!
What If I'm Unhappy With the Results of the Training?
Due to the many variables involved to create a well-behaved, balanced dog, including owner commitment, consistency and follow-through, it would be unethical for us to offer a 100% guarantee.
That being said, we only choose to work with the most dedicated and diligent owners; in our experience, no matter how severe the issues, we consistently see breakthrough results and amazing transformations. We work hand in hand as a team in your dog’s rehabilitation.
This journey of teamwork and collaboration begins before we even meet your dog, moves through the training process, and continues long after your dog has gone home.