- May 9, 2019
- Posted by: optimaadmin
- Category: Behaviors, Classes, Coaching The Handler
This week I want to help you understand the differences between these two training options. They each serve distinct purposes, and both are very useful. Instead of an either/or training option, I think of them as a complimentary training program that takes about a year to complete. One that builds on the previous lessons learned. Let me explain….
| Ideally In-Home Training is used for a young puppy right after the new owner brings it home. The five one-on-one sessions create a cornerstone of good behavior in your home that enable the dog and family members to communicate in a positive way. It also establishes trust between you which enables your dog to move forward and try new skills. When this happens, further training moves along quite well. Since this training can be started as early as 8 weeks old when you get your puppy, you are not “loosing time” in training while you wait for your puppy to be old enough to attend a group class.
In-Home Training is also helpful to clients who need to retrain the dog and themselves in order to eliminate less than positive behaviors such as jumping on people, charging the door and chewing things other than toys. The personal, one-on-one attention you receive during your appointments is not possible during a small group class.
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| Often times dog owners unintentionally or ‘accidentally train’ their dog by saying something that creates an unwanted behavior, and before you know it, they have a situation on their hands. For example, in a previous blog about jumping, I discussed how easy it is to accidentally train your dog to jump up on you when you enter the house. It starts out cute and then it becomes annoying and sometimes dangerous depending on the dog’s behavior. The good news is that in every case, with proper instruction, consistent re-training efforts and positive reinforcement the owner and dog can learn the best way to communicate and enjoy each other’s company for many years. |  |
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My Small Group Classes offer three levels of training (Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced), focused on a progression of skills for the owner and dog. The small group setting is ideal for those who have a trust base with some framework for positive communication between them. With this in place, dog and handler come to class and are ready to begin working on new skills such as the 5 Basic Commands and proper Meet & Greet manners to name just a few things, while encountering many distractions. They also develop their trust base so the dog is comfortable with separation. By the time you have completed the three levels of training the sky is the limit! Both you and your dog will be enjoying the fruits of learning to work together.
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Of course, there are exceptions to every ideal plan, and this is where my years of training experience comes in handy. My expertise allows me to come alongside dog owners at every stage of ownership to help them gain the knowledge they need to be able to communicate with their dog in a positive, loving way. For more information about our training options click here. Cheers! Julie |
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