The Evolution of My Polite Leash Walking Technique
It’s been a long journey, but I’ve finally discovered a technique that works (nearly) 100% of the time. I want to share the experience of discovering a technique that I use as a “go-to” with all my dog training students. It starts with how I trained polite leash walking before I crossed over. Using Corrections…
Different Dog Training Techniques for Different Needs
In dog training there is always tension when trainers discuss whether they prefer to shape a certain behavior or lure it. Clicker training is a technique where we use a noise maker, the clicker, to mark/identify the exact behavior that the dog is getting the reward for. You can watch my favorite intro to clicker…
A Critique of Dog Training Techniques
There’s more than one way to skin a cat, or train a dog for that matter. What makes some dog training techniques better than others? Why do trainers with the same philosophy train dogs using different techniques? Trainers who believe in force-free training can have different approaches to teaching the same skill to a dog.…
Analyzing the Dog Whisperer’s Techniques Through the Eyes of Science-Based Theories
I want to start out by saying that I used to be one of Cesar Millan’s, the Dog Whisperer, biggest fans. I even went to his seminar and met him in person in 2006. His methods worked for me until I adopted my dog, Loker. Loker put me on the path to seeking new knowledge…
Doggie Daycare Series – Part 2: I’ve Been Mugged!
By far, the biggest adjustment for me has been getting used to dogs jumping on me to get treats, toys, or simply out of excitement. As I mentioned in Part I, the dogs that come to the day school center have very little training under their belt. It took me a while to adjust to…
Doggie Daycare Series – Part 1: Reactive vs Proactive Management
I recently took up a new position as a Day School Trainer at a local dog training company. While I still get to teach classes and give private lessons, I also have the opportunity to work with a different group of dogs everyday. This has really put me on the fast track to “pack” management…
Confidence IS The Cure – Dog Leash Reactivity
I’ve owned my reactive dog, Loker, for almost 3 years already. Man does time fly! Our walks lately have been surprisingly relaxing. He’s mastered loose leash walking as long as I’m consistent and I’ve developed a new attitude: Whatever happens, happens. As we were walking down the street enjoying the nice spring breeze, I realized…
A New Addition to The Crossover Trainer Blog
I reached out to my subscribers to find someone who would be interested in writing for this blog regularly along with me and I was blown away when I saw who signed up! Consider this the formal introduction of Bev Maahs to the Crossover Trainer Blog! Bev has been a reader for a while now…