The Evolution of My Polite Leash Walking Technique

polite leash walking

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…

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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…

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A Critique of Dog Training Techniques

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.…

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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…

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Doggie Daycare Series – Part 2: I’ve Been Mugged!

Train My Dogs Austin

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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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