Training Resources
Why we use positive reinforcement training?
Positive reinforcement training is about rewarding your dog for their correct actions. Rewards may include treats, praise, toys, or their favorite game—essentially, anything that the dog finds rewarding. This training method boosts your dog's confidence, strengthens your bond, and enhances communication between you and your pet
Learn More:
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K9 Of Mine Website : Positive Reinforcement Dog Training 101: The Science-Backed Method! (k9ofmine.com)
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Clicker Training Library | Karen Pryor Clicker Training
"Alpha Dog" theory
Clicker Training Library | Karen Pryor Clicker Training
How to choose a dog trainer?
Dog Training is about learning to communicate and bond with your dog, while understanding your dog’s behavior and emotions.
Trainers should have :
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A strong understanding of dog behavior
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Excellent communication skills with dogs and people
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Science based knowledge on how a dogs learn
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Training Certifications
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Training should be fun for you and your dog!
Look for a trainer that uses positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement means rewarding dogs for their engagement and rewarding them for what they do right rather than punishing them for what they did wrong. Look for a trainer that believes in the science of dog training rather than training methods that force obedience. Think of your trainer as your coach. If your trainer is not training you, then you need a new trainer.
You should speak with the trainer before signing up for their services. The trainer should be patient, encouraging, and respectful. Ask the trainer about their education and any credentials. Ask about their methodology. Dog training is an unregulated industry. Anyone can call themselves a dog trainer
Look for another trainer if their methods include:
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Dominance Theory
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Alpha
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Submission
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Prong Collars
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Shock Collars
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Choke Collars
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Guarantees
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A physical correction such as: pinching, hitting, kneeing, holding the dog down, yelling, or yanking on the collar.
Reccomended Trainers :
Richmond
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Mariah Rodriguez of Confident Canine Coach- Richmond Dog Trainer| Confident Canine Coach
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Laura Folsom- River City Dog Training
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Zoom Room
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2 Speak Dog- 2 speak dog
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Kyzer Dog- KyzerDog.com
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Lesley Gurule of Canine Communication RVA- Canine Communication RVA
Glouster
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Amy Willoughby of Shared Joy Dog Training (Glouster)- Shared Joy Dog Training - Training, Group Classes, Behavior Consulting (shared-joy.com)
Hampton/Norfolk ( virtual options for out of area)
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Clever Critters (Hampton/Norfolk)- Behavior Modification and Training - Clever Critters, LLC (clever-critters.com)
Aggressive and reactive dog help:
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Gabrielle Johnson- www.bestlifedogservices.com
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Animal Behavior Wellness Center- Dr Amy Learn- Amy Learn, VMD (abwellnesscenter.com)
If you need additional suggestions for trainers in your area, please contact us at:
Book Recommendations:
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Canine Enrichment for the Real World by Allie Bender and Emily Strong
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Fired Up, Frantic, and Freaked Outby Laura VanArendonk Baugh
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Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy by Dr. Zazie Todd
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Plenty in Life is Free by Kathy Sdao
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Don't Leave Me! Step-by-Step Help for Your Dog's Separation Anxiety-by Nicole Wilde
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Doggie Language by Lili Chin
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The Stress Factor in Dogs: Unlocking Resiliency and Enhancing Well-Being by Kristina Spaulding
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The New Click to Calm: Solutions for All Dogs in a Challenging World- Parsons, Emma
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Be Right BackI How To Overcome Your Dog's Seperation Anxiety- by Julie Naismith
Social Media Links: