Canine Behavior Consulting, Manners,Obedience,Rally, CGC & Therapy Dog training utilizing positive, reward based training, games, & behavior modification, humane education

 

Certifications:

 

Training Equipment: Control by equipment (flat buckle or martingale collars,EZ Walk harnesses,leashes,long lines)is not a long term goal for my clients, but provides a safety net while building the bond / partnership.

 

Training Philosophy: My goal for my clients is to assist in building balanced and lasting partnerships with their dogs utilizing the power of positive, reward based methods creating a bond founded on trust & cooperation.

 

Locations Served: Williamsburg, James City County, York County, and surrounding areas

 

BONDING with our dogs means building a relationship based on trust and cooperation rather than relying on physical force or corrective equipment. BONDING is that rapport or partnership we develop with our dogs that leads them to choose to walk with us (as opposed to dragging us behind like unnecessary ballast), happily pay attention to us (rather than be distracted by anything and everything else), and willing come when called (because given the choice, they would prefer to be with us anyway!!). BUILDING this partnership - especially in the initial stages - requires a firm committment of time, attention, and a consistent management program to prevent (or,in some cases extinguish) unwanted/innappropriate behaviors. Over the past 30 years, I have been involved with rescue and behavior rehabilitation of a variety of dogs including herding, sighthound, and terrier breeds. This, along with teaching classes and working with clients in resolving their dogs' behavioral issues, has given me a deeper understanding of working with different breeds - many of whom are genetically hardwired for behaviors that are not always compatible with being ideal companions or "easy keepers" for the average pet owner. PARTNERSHIP BUILDING also requires clear communication and a good reward system for acceptable & appropriate behaviors - one that is determined by the DOG. It might be food, toys, petting, belly rubs, etc - or any combination as long as the DOG finds them HIGHLY rewarding. Dogs need to be CHALLENGED - both mentally & physically - on a regular basis to stay happy, healthy, and out of trouble. DOGS REPEAT BEHAVIORS (right or wrong)THAT THEY PERCEIVE TO BE REWARDING TO THEM (sometimes in ways not easy to comprehend). In the end, building a wonderful relationship with our dogs (and isn't that why we get dogs in the first place?!!) requires patience, persistence, & planning, and the desire to reward, play, praise, & motivate your canine partner to be the best that he can be