Picking the Right Trainer

I know how challenging it may be in finding a trainer who is both knowledgeable and ethical.

I’ve been there.

My life before I became a dog trainer, I was in the same boat.

Dog training was new to me, but I know I needed help with my little guy Jack.

His barking was Out.Of.Control. Regardless of where we were or what we are doing.

Unfortunately, the trainer we initially saw used aversives.

My husband and I were uncomfortable with those training methods.

Now looking back, those were the first methods used. There was no discussion on preventing the barking or managing the environment.

All the trainer cared about was ending a problem without even the slightest consideration of Do No Harm or humane practices.

What this only did was making Jack’s barking on a leash even worse.

Being committed in my goals of figuring out better ways and approaches in line with my values, I set off on a training path.

Fast forward several years later, here I am encouraging you to seek information out about a trainer’s methods before you purchase.

How to Spot a Trainer That Uses Aversive Training Methods

Pet Dog Ambassador Program

What is the Pet Dog Ambassador Program?
The Pet Dog Ambassador (PDA) is a program for dog guardians to test their knowledge, skills and ability to manage their canine companion in real life settings. Its aim is to acknowledge the hard work and commitment that guardians and their dogs undertake to make their shared lives enjoyable and recognizes these efforts from a puppy’s very early training. The program aims to encourage guardians to continue training and developing new skills, abilities and knowledge.
Candidates

All dog Guardians who have reached the legal age of accountability in their country (usually 18 or 21 years) are encouraged to become actively involved in the Pet Dog Ambassador Program. The program is suitable for all, including Guardians and/or dogs with a disability or special needs.

Junior candidates
Junior candidates are those who have not yet reached the age of legal accountability. Junior candidates may, with written permission from a parent or Guardian, enter the PDA Program with a dog considered suitable by a PDA instructor or assessor. The assessor has the choice of whether or not to assess junior candidates. The assessor can also stipulate from what age they will assess junior candidates.

Canine candidates
These are dogs of any breed or mixed breed aged from four months. Dogs with special needs can also be assessed with exercises being adapted if necessary. It is mandatory that dogs have a veterinary health check before taking part in the assessment.

Tangible evidence of success
As well as the pride in the hard work that they do, successful dog and guardian teams are awarded certificates and medallions at every level.

How to become involved
For further details about the Program go to the website http://www.petdogambassador.com/ or ask us how you can become involved in this wonderfully rewarding program for you and your dog.
Contact details for trainer/assessor etc

Name: Katherine Porter
Email: Katherine.porter09@gmail.com

Tail Waggin’ Fun!

Have you heard this before, “his tail is wagging, he’s happy to see us!”

That statement is not 💯 true.

Not all tail wags are happy wags.

When you or child approach a dog with a low wagging or a high, vibrating tail, this can add more stress to the dog that is already unsure or unhappy.

What happens next may be a snap, growl or a bite.

For children, they are the most at risk. They have a 50% chance of being bitten.

Teaching children the right way of handling and interacting with a dog along with guiding them in being able to interpret body language is a life skill which can save their life.

Becoming a dog detective and observing the dog’s whole body can give insight into how the dog is interpreting a situation and how he feels about what is going on.

Not sure how to get started?

The Kids Comprehensive Guide to Speaking Dog for sure can be a great place.

You will gain a better understanding of what your dog is expressing and what you and your kids can do to de escalate a misunderstanding while also finding all the ways which keeps your dog happy and relaxed.