Couple of things of note here.

1. This is a behavior that Alan and I worked on over a long period of time.  I was in no rush, so every so often I’d work on it a little bit.  Sometimes we’d go weeks without  working on it.  Training doesn’t always have to be about ‘fixing’ problems.  Finding a behavior to teach in the context of an activity that you already like to share with your dog, where you don’t have any real ‘issues’ with his/her behavior, removes all the pressure and stress from both you and the dog.  Not only does your dog learn new things, but you learn ways to be creative in teaching, and that makes you a better communicator.  It’s amazing how creative our minds can be when the pressure of ‘fixing’ a problem is lifted.  Then when you DO have a problem that needs to be worked on, not only does the dog have these skills that you can build upon, but you also have built up your own skills in this low pressure, low stress way.

2. Notice I’m not yelling, though I am speaking clearly and firmly (too firmly when I say “down” in my opinion… I guess I was feeling the pressure of performance in front of the camera!) If you yell a ‘command’ at your dog when it’s NOT important that they listen, how do you communicate with him/her when it IS important that he/she listen?  I’ll save yelling for an emergency, thank you very much.

Anyone that knows my training knows that I love interactive food toys.

Well, I built one.  It’s called the Loot Chute.  It works exceptionally well and is honestly probably the best food toy that I own. And it’s very different than the ones currently on the market.

So I am exploring the possibility of manufacturing it.  But I will need to raise funds.

So I am looking for investors or partners.  Contact me to learn more.

Thanks!

Interview I did with the Austin-American Statesman re: things to do with your dog in Austin during the winter. I can hear you scoffing, fellow east coasters. Click Here To Read

During our Adult Level 1 class, colorful little Helo nicely held a stay even when the friendly neighborhood kitty strolled by to say Hello!

Every Sunday, 6pm.  Starts Sunday, Sep 19.  $95 for 3 week class.

In this 3 week class we will work on ways to train and manage your dog into being a welcome guest at any dog friendly restaurant.  If you’ve always watched people and their dogs out on patios, and thought “I could never do that with my dog”, then this class may be for you.  Classes will take place at local eateries.

Limited to 6 Dogs.  Classes are about 1 hour long.

Please bring your dog on a 6 foot leash.   Bring tasty, A+ treats like hot dog or cheese chopped up into pea-sized bites.

Open to all dogs over the age of 18weeks. Proof of Rabies Vaccine and DHPP are required.

Pre-registration is Required.

Begins Sept 29, 7pm.  4 weeks.  $175. Register before 9/15 and receive a $10 discount (cannot be combined with other coupons)

If your dog growls, snaps, bites, or displays any aggression towards people when in possession of food, toys, or any other resource, then this class is for you.  You will learn and practice a protocol for making your dog comfortable sharing valuable objects with you, as well as learn what to do when your dog comes in possession of an item he/she shouldn’t have.

Please note: This class is designed to address resource guarding towards people, not other dogs.

Please bring a baggy full of Grade A+ treats, such as hot dog, cold cuts, or cheese.

Pre-registration is required.  Proof of Rabies and DHPP vaccinations are required.

This class is based on methods promoted by Suzanne Clothier’s Relationship Centered Training.

Class takes place at:
Midtown Groom & Board
1207 Baylor Street,  78703

I am excited to announce that due to our partnership with Midtown Groom & Board we are now able to offer classes for Fearful/Shy dogs!  These classes take place every Wednesday for 4 weeks, beginning Sept 1.

Click here for details!

Begins Sept 1, 6:30pm.  4 weeks.  $175. Register before 8/27 and receive a $10 discount (cannot be combined with other coupons)

Is your dog shy or fearful of people, other dogs, or objects?  This class is designed to help your dog overcome these fears in a way that is supportive, constructive, and safe.

Dogs are worked with individually during 30min slots.

Slots available are at 6:30pm, 7:oopm, 7:30pm, & 8:00pm.

Please bring a baggy full of Grade A+ treats, such as hot dog, cold cuts, or cheese.

While we try to keep the stress level down as much as possible, your dog will be feeling some stress. In order for this class to be effective, your dog must be willing to take extremely high value treats when under stress.

Pre-registration is required.  Proof of Rabies and DHPP vaccinations are required.

This class is based on methods promoted by Suzanne Clothier’s Relationship Centered Training.

Class takes place at:
Midtown Groom & Board
1207 Baylor Street,  78703

I’m very excited to announce that I am now a regular blogger for Dog Star Daily.

Dog Star Daily is website dedicated to providing quality dog training and dog parenting advice to both dog owners and professionals.  I’ve been using their website for years, and am continue to be impressed by the wealth of valuable content, both in written, video, and audio form.  The brainchild of legendary trainer Dr. Ian Dunbar and his wife Kelly, Dog Star Daily hosts blogs from many of the best trainers in the business, including Suzanne Clothier, Patricia McConnell, Nicole Wilde, as well as Kelly and Ian themselves.

My first blog for Dog Star Daily is about my foray into improv classes and the importance of taking risks in whatever profession you choose to master.

Read it here: http://dogstardaily.com/blogs/stuck-rut-take-improv-class