What is "balanced" training?
"In it's simplest form, Balanced Dog Training refers to any approach to dog training or behavior modification which involves the use of both reward based techniques, and aversive consequences. In other words, the trainer shows the dog that their choices and behaviors can result in either pleasant or unpleasant results. Over the last 15 years, a more moderate approach to training evolved. Many of us trainers realized that to overcome the limitations of reward only training, some amount of aversive pressure is necessary. However, we also recognized that to avoid the unwanted side effects, and to maintain a level of respect and consideration for the dog’s emotional and psychological well being, we need to be careful and thoughtful about when and how aversive pressure is used. Many years of thought, practice and experience, along with significant advancement in the fields of behavioral science and psychology, have resulted in a modern approach to dog training that is both compassionate, and reliable." -Tyler Muto (Former President of the International Association of Canine Professionals).
What tools do you use?
It depends on the dog. Some dogs will go entire sessions with only a flat collar and leash without the use of additional training tools. Others require the use of a retractable leash, slip lead leash, prong collar, or e-collar. We always begin by assessing each dog individually. We also carefully assess the relationship of dog and owner. From there we determine what training tool, if necessary, is best for each individual case. We always choose the least invasive approach as possible.
Do prong collars hurt dogs?
If used incorrectly any training tool can physically or mentally harm a dog. Yes, "no pull" harnesses are included. Tracheal collapse is a common injury for dogs that regularly pull against a flat collar which proves that even a regular flat collar can be harmful. Prong collars are actually designed to prevent that injury by redistributing the pressure throughout the dogs neck. However, the goal is for the dog not to pull and that is where training techniques come into play. A dog should not be pulling against a prong collar. Eliminating the dog's pulling also eliminates any potential pain or discomfort that a prong collar may cause. Do we expect tools alone to be a magical fix? NEVER! And you shouldn't either!
Do e-collars hurt dogs?
If used incorrectly any training tool can physically or mentally harm a dog. E-collars utilize the TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) technology. This is the same technology used on us in our own physical therapy offices where they use low voltage electric current to relieve pain. Nowadays E-collars are high tech devices with many options that also include low to practically undetectable stimulation as well as tone and vibrate. If used correctly, there is so much potential in this one device. It can be used as an aid in efficient obedience training. It can also be a life saver in the rehabilitation of aggressive dogs. Do we expect tools alone to be a magical fix? NEVER! And you shouldn't either!
Do "corrections" hurt dogs?
We've seen some scary things on the internet too! There are trainers out there that oversimplify and address complex behavioral issues by using punishment (often with the intention to inflict pain). It is terrifying, makes us cringe, and is emotionally stressful to watch. Equally disturbing is the gratification and pride those trainers feel in what they have done. We can't think of a single example in which corrections with the intention to inflict pain actually benefit a dog. In obedience training it is vital that a dog be given the chance to learn what a command means with positive encouragement. It is unfair and cruel to apply corrections without having made expectations clear or during times of confusion. For dogs with mindset difficulties such as fear, anxiety, or certain types of aggression (states of mind they have little or no control over) implementing harsh corrections or punishment simply doesn't work, can indeed create distrust, and can make a behavior worse. Close and consistent observation of pack dynamics shows us though that dogs are physical in the way that they communicate. We cannot deny that. There are times in which physical touch is appropriate and even required. It is the way that we communicate through touch that gives us the opportunity to choose compassion and consideration for the dog or not. Touching a dog with anger or frustration or in a way it does not understand can certainly endanger it. Touching a dog purposefully with skill and with practiced and proven technique can greatly improve a dog's ability to navigate expectations and can strengthen the human/dog relationship for the better.
Are you opposed to the use of drugs in training and behavior work?
Yes, we are strongly against the use of psychiatric drugs as a means to solve training or behavioral issues. We believe these drugs are overly prescribed and that we don't know enough about the side affects or the way dogs respond to them to be using them as regularly as our society does. In addition, most of our clients who had previously tried these drugs for their dogs, some who had their dogs using them for years, reported that they saw little to no difference in behavior or positive affects.
Are you anti euthanasia?
We are not opposed to euthanasia in certain extreme and dangerous cases. However, we believe every dog deserves a try and a chance. Failing the positive reinforcement test should not automatically result with the needle. Every dog deserves a fair opportunity to succeed which means that various training techniques should be utilized before making that decision.
"In it's simplest form, Balanced Dog Training refers to any approach to dog training or behavior modification which involves the use of both reward based techniques, and aversive consequences. In other words, the trainer shows the dog that their choices and behaviors can result in either pleasant or unpleasant results. Over the last 15 years, a more moderate approach to training evolved. Many of us trainers realized that to overcome the limitations of reward only training, some amount of aversive pressure is necessary. However, we also recognized that to avoid the unwanted side effects, and to maintain a level of respect and consideration for the dog’s emotional and psychological well being, we need to be careful and thoughtful about when and how aversive pressure is used. Many years of thought, practice and experience, along with significant advancement in the fields of behavioral science and psychology, have resulted in a modern approach to dog training that is both compassionate, and reliable." -Tyler Muto (Former President of the International Association of Canine Professionals).
What tools do you use?
It depends on the dog. Some dogs will go entire sessions with only a flat collar and leash without the use of additional training tools. Others require the use of a retractable leash, slip lead leash, prong collar, or e-collar. We always begin by assessing each dog individually. We also carefully assess the relationship of dog and owner. From there we determine what training tool, if necessary, is best for each individual case. We always choose the least invasive approach as possible.
Do prong collars hurt dogs?
If used incorrectly any training tool can physically or mentally harm a dog. Yes, "no pull" harnesses are included. Tracheal collapse is a common injury for dogs that regularly pull against a flat collar which proves that even a regular flat collar can be harmful. Prong collars are actually designed to prevent that injury by redistributing the pressure throughout the dogs neck. However, the goal is for the dog not to pull and that is where training techniques come into play. A dog should not be pulling against a prong collar. Eliminating the dog's pulling also eliminates any potential pain or discomfort that a prong collar may cause. Do we expect tools alone to be a magical fix? NEVER! And you shouldn't either!
Do e-collars hurt dogs?
If used incorrectly any training tool can physically or mentally harm a dog. E-collars utilize the TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) technology. This is the same technology used on us in our own physical therapy offices where they use low voltage electric current to relieve pain. Nowadays E-collars are high tech devices with many options that also include low to practically undetectable stimulation as well as tone and vibrate. If used correctly, there is so much potential in this one device. It can be used as an aid in efficient obedience training. It can also be a life saver in the rehabilitation of aggressive dogs. Do we expect tools alone to be a magical fix? NEVER! And you shouldn't either!
Do "corrections" hurt dogs?
We've seen some scary things on the internet too! There are trainers out there that oversimplify and address complex behavioral issues by using punishment (often with the intention to inflict pain). It is terrifying, makes us cringe, and is emotionally stressful to watch. Equally disturbing is the gratification and pride those trainers feel in what they have done. We can't think of a single example in which corrections with the intention to inflict pain actually benefit a dog. In obedience training it is vital that a dog be given the chance to learn what a command means with positive encouragement. It is unfair and cruel to apply corrections without having made expectations clear or during times of confusion. For dogs with mindset difficulties such as fear, anxiety, or certain types of aggression (states of mind they have little or no control over) implementing harsh corrections or punishment simply doesn't work, can indeed create distrust, and can make a behavior worse. Close and consistent observation of pack dynamics shows us though that dogs are physical in the way that they communicate. We cannot deny that. There are times in which physical touch is appropriate and even required. It is the way that we communicate through touch that gives us the opportunity to choose compassion and consideration for the dog or not. Touching a dog with anger or frustration or in a way it does not understand can certainly endanger it. Touching a dog purposefully with skill and with practiced and proven technique can greatly improve a dog's ability to navigate expectations and can strengthen the human/dog relationship for the better.
Are you opposed to the use of drugs in training and behavior work?
Yes, we are strongly against the use of psychiatric drugs as a means to solve training or behavioral issues. We believe these drugs are overly prescribed and that we don't know enough about the side affects or the way dogs respond to them to be using them as regularly as our society does. In addition, most of our clients who had previously tried these drugs for their dogs, some who had their dogs using them for years, reported that they saw little to no difference in behavior or positive affects.
Are you anti euthanasia?
We are not opposed to euthanasia in certain extreme and dangerous cases. However, we believe every dog deserves a try and a chance. Failing the positive reinforcement test should not automatically result with the needle. Every dog deserves a fair opportunity to succeed which means that various training techniques should be utilized before making that decision.
