Do I need a trainer?
If you’re asking, the answer is probably “yes” but we can help you decide! We offer FREE 30 minute consultations to assess your situation and help you understand how a trainer may be able to help.
What is LIMA?
LIMA stands for Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive. This is an ethical standard that certified dog trainers maintain, simply meaning that they will always use the least intrusive method possible to gain the desired outcome for your pup.
What is "Balanced Training"?
The idea of balanced training refers to a system of learning called operant conditioning. Operant conditioning is one of three ways that animals such as dogs (and humans) learn. Within this system, there are 4 quadrants known as positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, positive punishment, and negative punishment. In this case, the terms positive and negative simply mean that you’re either adding something into the equation, or taking something away. Reinforcement means that you’re trying to ensure the behavior happens more frequently while punishment simply means you’re looking for the behavior to happen less frequently.
A balanced trainer will be well versed in all four quadrants of this learning theory, allowing them to communicate most effectively with your pup’s learning style.
Isn't using "punishment" bad?
Not at all! When you take away your teenager’s cell phone they will probably tell you that you’re mean, but you know it is a harmless punishment that will hopefully teach them to behave differently in the future. The same can be done with our pups.
In this context, punishment simply means that you want the behavior to happen less frequently. For instance, if your new puppy is biting your hand and you don’t want them to, you might pull your hand away and stop giving them attention. That means you’ve removed something from the equation (your hand and attention) so that the puppy will display that behavior less in the future. Operant conditioning would call that negative (taking something away) punishment (to see the behavior less).
The Poised Pup does not use pain or fear-based methods.
What is "Positive Only"? Is it better?
Positive only trainers simply stick to the positive reinforcement quadrant of operant conditioning. Most trainers (even balanced trainers) spend the vast majority of their time working in the positive reinforcement quadrant. This is most effective when trying to teach new skills or habits and is an excellent option for basic obedience and new puppy training. However, if your pup needs to unlearn some bad behaviors (behavior modification), we recommend working with a balanced trainer who is experienced in the other modes of operant conditioning as well.
Do I need to be there during training?
YES! Training is a process that involves both you and your dog. You will be learning together. Training is an ongoing process and it will be your responsibility to continue the work that we start in training sessions. Continuing to work together will also strengthen the bond between you and your pup, which is key for having a harmonious life-long relationship.
We encourage all members of the household to participate in training session. Kids too!
Do walks include leash training?
No. Booking walks with us is a great way to ensure that leash manners are being reinforced on a regular basis but if your pup needs foundational skills on-leash, our basic obedience and manners training is for you.
How much does training cost?
Rates currently vary between $75-$135/hour. During your free consultation, a trainer will discuss rates specific to your pet and provide a recommended training plan.
How much does a walker cost?
One Pupper:
30 minutes = $25
60 minutes = $40
Two Puppers:
30 minutes = $32
60 minutes = $55
All walks include a GPS map of where we went, at least one photo of your pet, and a summary of how the day went.
What if my dog is really reactive?
One benefit to walking with a trainer is that we’re great at handling reactivity in a way that keeps your pup and everyone else safe. Reactive dogs of all sizes are still eligible for walks but we would also recommend investing in training so that you and your pup can learn to be confident on leash.