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?
We use a range of tools depending on what is needed in each of our programs. Safety is our first priority. In any of our programs, if a tool is going to help alter an unwanted behavior, gain control, or prevent harm or injury, then we'll use it. Tools may include a flat collar, flat leash, slip lead leash, prong collar, e-collar, muzzle, backpack, treats, crate, crop, retractable leash, long line, or treadmill. These are all considered training tools. The training tools that people tend to be most concerned about are the prong collar and e-collar. You can read more about these specific tools below.
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 dog's 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! Awareness about how to properly use any tool is important.
Do e-collars hurt dogs?
If used incorrectly any training tool (harness, head halter, slip lead leash, retractable leash, flat collar etc.) can physically or mentally harm a dog. E-collars utilize the TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) technology. This is the same technology as used in physical therapy offices, where they apply low voltage electric current to loosen muscle tension in order 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 behavioral rehabilitation of aggressive dogs. Do we expect tools alone to be a magical fix? NEVER! And you shouldn't either! Awareness about how to properly use any tool is important.
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 effects, 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 effects.
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?
We use a range of tools depending on what is needed in each of our programs. Safety is our first priority. In any of our programs, if a tool is going to help alter an unwanted behavior, gain control, or prevent harm or injury, then we'll use it. Tools may include a flat collar, flat leash, slip lead leash, prong collar, e-collar, muzzle, backpack, treats, crate, crop, retractable leash, long line, or treadmill. These are all considered training tools. The training tools that people tend to be most concerned about are the prong collar and e-collar. You can read more about these specific tools below.
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 dog's 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! Awareness about how to properly use any tool is important.
Do e-collars hurt dogs?
If used incorrectly any training tool (harness, head halter, slip lead leash, retractable leash, flat collar etc.) can physically or mentally harm a dog. E-collars utilize the TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) technology. This is the same technology as used in physical therapy offices, where they apply low voltage electric current to loosen muscle tension in order 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 behavioral rehabilitation of aggressive dogs. Do we expect tools alone to be a magical fix? NEVER! And you shouldn't either! Awareness about how to properly use any tool is important.
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 effects, 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 effects.
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.
