HomeServicesEventsResourcesWho We AreTraining TipsPhotos and Videos


positive and practical solutions to behavior issues

 

Seize the Leash
4458 E Cooper Circle

520-751-7772

Seize The Leash - Group Behavior Training

Fill out our Training Services form and get started today!! Each basics class is $120.00.
Group Behavior Training -Rehabilitating the Reactive, Shy or Aggressive Dog
SATURDAY at 9am at our facility Sign Up Here
TUESDAY at 6pm at our facility Sign Up Here

Life Without A Leash: Righteous Recalls
FRIDAY at 9am at our facility - Sign Up Here

My Dog Has C.L.A.S.S. - APDT Canine Life and Social Skills Program
SATURDAY at 6pm. - Sign Up Here
SUNDAY at 9am - Sign Up Here

Puppy Basics - AKC STAR Puppy
TUESDAY morning 9am, THURSDAY evening 6pm at our facility
This 6 week program includes the AKC STAR Puppy evaluation and certification Sign Up Here

Out of Control! Surviving Adolescence & Implementing Leadership
WEDNESDAY 9am - Sign Up Here
FRIDAY at 6pm at our facility - Sign Up Here

Shy Dog Workshop
WEDNESDAY, 6pm. - Sign Up Here
SUNDAY 6pm. - Sign Up Here

Sign up for our newsletter. You’ll receive training tips and many more special features which are only offered through our newsletter!

Your Name
Your Email

Read our past newsletters here

Backcountry Photography

Jamie on Facebook     Canine Behavior Training on Facebook     twitter     blog     email     Subscribe to me on YouTube

Testimonials
Joey's Story
Subscribe to Our Blog
Ask The Trainer
Seize The Leash on LinkedIn

Canine Behavior Training


Seize the Leash

Attend a class designed for dogs that are difficult in normal group classes, that bark, lunge, become excited, reactive or aggressive towards other dogs or people or just shuts down. This class is des...

Seize the Leash Dogtime Local Put Business Listing

Vist Skorpion

Association of Pet Dog Trainers - Dog Training Professionals

 


Seize The Leash Training Tips - Dog Behavior Training

Dog behavior training covers every aspect of canine education -from the species specific responses that are inherent to canines, to learning theory and operant conditioning, to traditional training methods. When these training techniques are properly implemented, most people notice results immediately (see testimonials). A well mannered pet is now within your reach, all you need to do is optimally structure your pet's environment.

Dog behavior training involves teaching life skills, such as preventing aggression problems, and how to properly interact with others and the environment without undue stress. At some point in time all of us dog owners need to administer some dog behavior training. This is sometimes called "behavior modificaton" and it basically means solving your dog's behavior problems.

The vast majority of behavior problems that are presented to me are the result of inappropriate communication, over-permissiveness (spoiling) and/or anthropomorphism (treating the dog as it were a human). Other times, problems are simply the result of unfortunate relationship dynamics. Fortunately, most of these problems are resolvable with some education and work on the part of the owner.

Dog behavior can sometimes be directed and controlled by obedience training

Behavior training is the means to resolving behavioral issues. Obedience training cannot accomplish behavior modification. In fact, teaching obedience commands to solve a behavioral problem can and often does get in the way of helping the dog resolve his or her problem. For instance, if a dog is stressed or anxious in a given context, forcing him to perform some obedience exercise sit, lay down, whatever, can add to the stress or anxiety. That, in turn, does nothing to change the stress or anxiety he may have within that context and leaves the dog with the same behavioral problem. Or, if your dog is doing something you do not like, having him down-stay may stop the behavior at that time, but again, it does nothing to address the behavior or its possible cause.

Obedience training can give you the control needed to prevent a number of potential life threatening situations. For example: If the door is left open and you see your dog letting himself out, you can safely call him back using your recall command. Or if your dog slips his collar, you can command him to sit (he can't run off when he's sitting) to get the collar back on, etc. Obedience Training can also serve to strengthen the bond between you. It builds understanding, mutual respect, and teaches you how to "speak dog."

Although the benefits of obedience training are many, it has little to do with behavior modification. For example, if your dog is in the habit of running off, your recall command may stop and return the dog to you, however, the recall command does nothing to address the running off in the first place. Or, if your dog is aggressive, you may be able to "call the dog off" but again, it does nothing to address the aggression or its possible cause. If your dog is fearful of something and you can get him to sit or lay down, it will not change the dog's fear response.

Your pet's problems are often a direct result of the animal's inability to cope with the stress of everyday life in the human world. The purpose of behavior training is to show a dog how to live with humans, without stress, and still remain a dog.

Canine and human behavior should not be confused with each other.

The response patterns and intellect of a dog is very different from that of humans, although we do share some common traits. One of these traits is the drive to form close social groups with strong bonds to significant others. This bonding can be thought of as a kind of love. Even though this type of bonding is a natural trait in both canines and humans, we must avoid endearing our pets with human emotions.

To appreciate your dog fully, correct problem dog behavior, and ensure a devoted, well trained animal, you have to speak his language! Almost everyone needs help of some kind with their pet. And usually a few simple things will make all the difference in your life. Stop pulling your hair out, living in an "armed camp," or putting up with paw prints on furniture and clothes. Understanding how dogs think and learn will help you clearly communicate with your dog in a calm, relaxed manner.   With just a little patience, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you’ll start to see results.  Every time you interact with your dog is a training opportunity.  I'll show you how to incorporate training into your everyday activities with your dog - because ongoing practice is important for a lifetime of good behavior.  And clear communication is the key to having a great relationship with your dog.

Solving your dogs behavior problems

Many behavior problems (such as barking, biting and digging) stem from a lack of communication, or miscommunication between you the owner and your dog. Simply put, your dog is not aware of what is expected of him.

Set boundaries of acceptable and unacceptable behavior for your dogs, and stick to them. Be consistent, make it simple for your dog.

Even though it may seem as though your dog is behaving poorly to spite you or annoy you this is not the case. In the vast majority of dog behavior problems there will be a cause or trigger which sparks the behavior. Identifying these triggers is the crucial first step towards solving the problem. Be careful you are not inadvertently rewarding the very behavior you are trying to eliminate. An example of this would be if your dog is barking excessively outside, you then go to the door and yell at him or just strongly tell him to stop barking. You're encouraging and rewarding the behavior, and therefore he is sure to do it again. He doesn't understand your words, so he thinks you are barking with him.

Dog Behavior Training Can Make An Enormous Difference To Your Dog's Life

It's a sad fact of life that the vast majority of dogs that end up in animal shelters (or worse) are there because of a bad behavioral problem. It doesn't have to be this way, most problems (like aggression and destructive behavior) are at the very least manageable, through proper dog behavior training.

If you consistently apply the proper training techniques and add some commitment and patience, you are sure to achieve pleasing results with your dog.

To solve behavior problems one must employ a sound Behavior Training program, provided by a qualified behaviorist, or behavior specialist. Obedience training, although important, has little to nothing to do with behavior modification and should not be solely utilized to try and solve behavior problems. You must address the underlying reasons/causes of the behavior itself or any training may fail or make the problem worse. If you understand and work to address the root of the problem in an educated, consistent, clear, and humane manner, you will be rewarded with an enjoyable companion for years to come.


 

Current Training StoriesBehavior Training TestimonialsGroup TestimonialsFear Aggression - Joey's StoryA Life Saved in Two HoursPeanut - not so dangerous dogA Dog In PainDallas: A Sad StoryThe Best Walking PartnerCult of the GreyhoundSuzanne Morrison - Backcountry Photogrphy
Private Behavior TrainingBusy Bee TrainingAKC STAR Puppy ProgramMulti-Dog HarmonyOut of Control! Surviving Adolescence & Implementing LeadershipGroup Behavior TrainingUrban AgilityLife Without A LeashRally Obedience BasicsPit n Proud
Training Services ContractGroup Behavior Class Sign UpTiny Tyrants Class Sign UpAKC STAR Puppy Class Sign UpBusy Bee Sign UpClient Survey
ResourcesDIY Behavior Training ManualsTraining VideosTucson Cold Wet NosesAdvanced Behavior Class at Spike & Chester`s Self Service Dog Wash
The Pack LeaderRuthBryndaMicahStormBear
Sensible TrainingTreat the "cause"What is training?Why train your dogChanging Your DogDog Behavior ModificationConsistency is the KeyMoving and Your PetsYour Dog Needs StimulationSeparation AnxietyFear Aggression
Ask The TrainerNewsletter ArchiveTwitterFacebookDog Park PicturesCommunity OutreachFunny: GrandparentsOur Blog