TRAINING METHODS USED

Maroondah Dog Training uses a gentle reward based method of dog training.

This is a modern method of teaching a dog how to respond to a request by using the voice in conjunction with a food treat or, at times, a toy. Exercises are done in a relaxed environment and without any pulling or pushing with the hands or lead. Corporal discipline is never used.

Dogs have an entirely different way of learning than humans. They don't have the same power of reasoning as we humans have, they learn by example and repetition. Talking normally or softly with an encouraging tone will achieve results easier than shouting at your dog. Reward based methods utilises this knowledge to train your dog.

As this type of training is about the individual family pet:

• The courses are designed to educate people in many aspects of training their dog.
• Learning is done in an easy and relaxed environment that helps you absorb information and practice the training methods and exercises without any stress.
• We encourage all members of the dog's household to participate and learn in the class training sessions. This enables everyone to gain first-hand experience, which gives consistency to the dog's training.
• Children accompanied by adults are welcome to be involved in the training. This can give them a better understanding of how a dog learns, which greatly improves their relationship with the dog.
• We teach the dog the good social skills needed for it to intergrate into the family environment.
• We monitor the progress of each dog and owner through the course. As people and dogs learn at different rates, we don't conduct stressful end-of-course tests.
• Plenty of time is given to discuss Training and Behavioural problems and practical solutions to overcome them.
• Class numbers are generally kept to a maximum of 8 dogs. This allows for constant individual monitoring of the progress of each dog and owner during each lesson.
• Exercises are generally conducted with plenty of space between each dog to give maximum opportunity for the dog to have full focus on the handler.

Some examples of training:


Learning to sit and stay


Beginning to learn how to drop


Teaching the dog to relax


Distance stay: Improving learning