dog training may not always be black and white...

The more I study, follow, practice, and have conversations with friends and clients, the more I realize how truly complex dog training is. Not complex in the sense it is a difficult activity (for the most part what you put in is what you get out) — but in a sense more goes into it than just understanding what is being taught to you. It is not really a ‘copy and paste’ scenario because we are all so different as handlers. If you have a great attention to detail, are fluent with your movements, and have good timing — likely you may find more success from observing and implementing than someone else.

Many people call and say “ I need my dog trained.” Or “I need my puppy to learn the basics. My dog jumps. My dog pulls on the leash.” In my opinion, most people wait way too long to get their puppies started — and beyond that, most people are responsible for the exact behaviors they are trying to avoid or end up complaining about. I believe most pet owners when they purchase a puppy are not necessarily considering the drive of the dog (or understand such a thing exists), or long term potential. In addition, training really and truly is in the eye of the beholder. What may be “wrong” to one person or be deemed problematic — another person may not care about. Realistically, most people are just looking for a family companion and they want that companion to be a solid member of the household — and sometimes to coexist within the community so the dog can be taken out in public.

A client once said to me after purchasing a puppy, “we were out boating and saw ‘THIS DOG BREED’ and it was so well behaved so we went out and got one.” Ok, well yes…they named an extremely intelligent breed and a breed that learns quickly but could also be very challenging and would not be recommended for an inexperienced owner. They also would never be able to tell me who owned the dog because they were only captivated by what they saw on the outside. Not the blood, sweat and tears that likely went into training the dog. When they ended up purchasing the same breed, their puppy showed true signs of aggression at less than 12 weeks old. So what we run into here is another VERY common problem. Wrong breed for the wrong person. Wrong environment for the breed. Likely not enough research done on the breed or breeding (but even with a good breeding things could not turn out as we expect). I will say the true aggression is rare in such a young puppy and would be something I would immediately be addressing with my breeder.

You simply cannot take “Dog A” and say I want “Dog B” to be “Dog A.” In a sense, that would be like saying you like how a person is and you want to be that person. You can be inspired to be more like that person, but you will never be that person. We have to remember dogs are individuals. We need to identify the talent the dog possesses but also our skill level to extract those talents. This is why even with a trainer so many people continue to struggle despite making their best attempts to follow the information given.

When talking dog training — if I see something I like from another trainer or influencer of course I want to know the steps they took to get there. But what I also have to recognize is the dog I have in front of me. It is my job to simply extract the full potential out of a dog I am training to the best of my capabilities. Therefore it is a two part equation:

• What is the full potential the dog is capable of

• What are your talents to get you where you need to go with that dog

Any dog trainer has the advantage of putting hands on multiple different puppies and dogs. They are different ages, shapes, sizes, temperaments and the more time spent, the more learning one can achieve. The average pet owner does not encounter multiple dogs on a regular basis.

So why is dog training complex? It is complex because the answer is always: it depends. It depends on the dog. It depends on the handler. The better you are with your skills and the more driven and adaptable the dog…the more you will get.

The Truth About Dog Training

The truth about dog training is dog training is arbitrary. If you tell me it works, then it works. There are a million ways to get somewhere and a lot of times it is going to depend on personal experience, education, personality and PRACTICE (and I guess the opinions you draw over time). Now does this mean someone who has 48 dog training certifications and a couple plaques on the wall is better than someone without? Not necessarily. But what it does mean is that person took time to explore, study, and educate themselves on methodologies they believe in (or do not believe in but wanted more information) — and further invested in the processes to learn about dog training. They understand there is ALWAYS room for growth. However, just because someone studied a few courses and attached a few letters to their name does not mean they can execute what they have learned. I would often hear as a child with regards to sports that someone may be a very talented player, but not a great coach. Why? If they are so skillful and talented themselves…why can they not help someone else be that? Part of dog training, if you are a dog trainer helping teach people, is your ability to coach and read people to help them bring out THEIR full potential in their abilities with the dog in front of them. It is important to find someone who can communicate the details in a manner where you, as a student, can digest the information and progress.

Talent and skill level are also a huge part of dog training (on the dog and human side). Just because I have studied the game of soccer and practiced super hard, or played all my life — does not guarantee I will be Mia Hamm. So, think of it this way…when you hire a dog trainer, regardless of who they are (but assuming they have some talent to train and get results) it DOES NOT MEAN you will continue on the same path. Why? Because you may lack the skills, timing, knowledge, problem solving skills, and precision (amongst a million other things) that they have. Dog training is a lifestyle. There is no perfect dog and our four-footed counterparts are constantly morphing behavior which is why it makes our skill level critical. Not only to stay on top of it, but to recognize it in the first place.

Now, let’s visit the flip side. Someone who has no certifications, does not continue education in any capacity, does not actively train or participate in any performance based skills or lacks the desire entirely to prove themselves (or even push their limits with their own dog). Well, for me that is a red flag. It is not a red flag because they lack the education (someone can be self taught for sure and watch a million videos online per day), but it is a red flag they lack the passion to learn more. If someone thinks they know everything there is to know about dog training and is not open-minded in any capacity to believe that someone out there may have something they don’t have…run. Run fast and run far.

I do strongly believe education and experience, over time will teach someone that all dogs are individuals just like people. You need to have an understanding of the dog’s capable abilities at its highest potential so you can be realistic in your goals. You also need to have an understanding of the stableness or soundness of the mind. You cannot take an extremely fearful dog and expect to get the same results as a dog who has not a care in the world.

Ultimately this really may not help someone much who may lack education on the topic. However, what I can say is:

• PASSION! Find someone who is inspiring to you. Find someone who makes you want to do better, do more, and pushes you to great limits. Likely if that person can inspire you — they are pulling inspiration from others they’ve come across in their ongoing training journey

• FAIRNESS! Find someone who is fair, rewarding, and can fully explain the process or techniques they are using and why. Not only how it is physically helping or hindering the dog, but also where the emotions of the dog falls. Make sure that person can evaluate and assess your dog during the training process. If the dog does not solidly know a behavior, harsh corrections should not be applied. There is no such thing as a “quick fix.”

• TALENT! Find someone who has talent and skill in what they are doing and can execute their methods effectively. Understand you may not be able to mimic this right away, but their ability to coach you will help you along the way.

• EDUCATION! Find someone who likes to learn, accepts all and any questions and is willing to share with you how they have gotten to where they are now in their training journey.

• LOYALTY! Just as many clients are to their trainer, find a trainer who will give that back to you. People selling “lifetime guarantees” or who have a phenomenal sales pitch on dog training packages…move on. Find someone who wants to be there training as much as you do.

"Coronapuppies"

In the past few months a lot of puppy and dog owners have been reaching out concerned their newly purchased puppy or adult dog has started developing “separation anxiety.” The story goes something like “we’ve been home with our puppy or dog since bringing it home due to the virus” … or “we have been home with our dog 24/7 and he or she is so attached to us.” Many go as far to describe new behaviors which “came out of nowhere.” However, a lot of times these random behaviors were gradual changes we did not notice until they were significant enough to impact us. I have referred to this new era of overly attached dogs who have established an unhealthy bond to their humans as “Coronapuppies.” However, I should say it is overly attached humans who have established an unhealthy bond to their dogs. So….maybe it is a “Coronahuman” era? And….it’s honestly nothing new (unfortunately).

For a very long time I have personally observed dogs with behavioral challenges (or unwanted behaviors) which stem directly from the way their owners treat them and choose to reinforce (a lot of times without even realizing it). To make matters worse for people, many place human emotions onto their animals (a lot of times their own personal feelings). Sometimes it is very mild, and sometimes it is so severe it actually prevents the human from doing social things because they feel so bad leaving the dog behind or being without them (including boarding them). In turn, the dog realizes their behaviors gets them what they need and they learn to behave in a specific way making the human feel the dog truly has a “problem” without them. Often times these behaviors are set off by triggers, or patterns we have before we do something — like leave the house. Unfortunately, when these series of events take place and this attachment exists, it can be a very difficult conversation to have with a dog owner in trying to communicate they are in fact the cause of the observed behaviors they are referring to as separation anxiety (and wanting to get rid of).

In all the years I have dog sat, I would probably say I can count on one hand the cases of true separation anxiety I have observed. There are certainly circumstances in which may naturally cause a puppy or dog stress, especially if it has been poorly socialized (and when I say socialized I do not mean dog-to-dog socialization). However, when we start feeding into these behaviors we start contributing to a problem referred to as stimulated separation anxiety. Stimulated separation anxiety is created by providing attention and affection to our dogs during certain situations or scenarios (thunderstorms, fireworks, a fearful dog in a new environment, dropping a dog off somewhere) in which they learn their behaviors (unwanted behaviors) bring them attention (even if negative). The human becomes a crutch; and instead of building confidence in their dog and teaching them to face the world on their own they are constantly allowing their dog to crawl into their skin. And when I say face the world on their own I certainly do not mean things like driving to the grocery store to purchase their own food. I mean having an attitude of confidence and independence away from us, or when separated or put in a situation which makes them feel insecure. This confidence and independence is one of many reasons I am a huge advocate of crate training and proper socialization from the get go — and especially utilizing the crate while you are physically home at the same time as the dog. It’s very important to NOT constantly be babying your puppy or dog. If you got a dog for the sole reason you can love on them, that is fine and dandy…but you need to be fair to the dog. How fun would it be to live a life of insecurity and stress?

One of the most common contributors I observe is dogs being rewarded with affection when they are left for overnight boarding or immediately upon pick up. Especially owners who have noted jumping as being a major challenge seem to happily invite their dog to scoot around, out of control, jumping all over them. A simple command such as a sit or down would be sufficient to teach the dog calmness earns a reward. It is amazing the way in which a dog can then channel its energy into a behavior we like opposed to reinforcing an over stimulated mind/body. This same behavior takes place when the owner leaves home after being away for a while. A lot of times prolonged good-byes and immediate hellos in combination with teaching the dog to be over aroused before our departure or upon our arrival are all part of the problem. When a dog performs an action he feels was rewarded, it reinforces the behavior. The best thing to do when dealing with stimulated separation anxiety is to take a look at our behaviors. Once we understand how we are reinforcing or extinguishing behaviors we can better set rules and boundaries for ourselves and our dogs.

Dogs will do all sorts of behaviors when they know “they work.” Unfortunately for the very sensitive and emotional human…a dog will easily take advantage of this.

On the flip side, true separation anxiety is a condition where the animal feels actual panic. While many vets may prescribe drugs to help curb the problem, they are only putting a band-aid over a major behavioral issue and prolonging the problem. True separation anxiety is not going to fix itself in a matter of days. However, there are things we can do each and every day to make things better for both the human and the dog. Healthy diet, exercise, and ongoing training are critical.

Missing the Boat on "Socialization"

It seems more often than not people are posting on social media feeds or inquiring via email how desperate they are to find a place to “socialize” their dog through a dog daycare setting.

Teaching your dog to tolerate and exist around other dogs is only a small part of what socialization truly is. Teaching your dog to value other dogs more than yourself (in my opinion) is not the greatest idea.  Money is much better invested (in my opinion) in training your dog and having dog to dog socialization as only a small percentage of the overall socialization. I don’t know about you, but I do not want my dog running off leaving me just because it sees another dog (or human for that matter).

Socialization is teaching your dog to be a part of society. It is teaching your dog to be a well-mannered counterpart at home as well as in public. Socialization includes introducing your dog to different types of people, objects, environments, buildings, sights, sounds, noises, smells, other animals (and yes that would include dogs). But, for some reason people put an obsessiveness on needing their dog to play with other dogs.

Now you might be thinking…why are you saying this, you hold dog daycare! Correct, I do. In a very small and controlled setting where dogs are well known and behavior is being constantly monitored and observed it can be a nice way to allow your dog exercise as well as learn to co-exist with other dogs. Daycare can also be very good for the nervous or fearful dog as long as they are being paired with a neutral dog where they can boost confidence. Daycare is also nice to help a dog get acclimated. Daycare for me does not mean dogs running around like chickens with their heads cut off for eight hours. It takes management and attentiveness to each dog attending. A daycare setting where 30 dogs are under the supervision of one individual lacking experience is not a good idea.

A daycare program can also be beneficial if training is involved or a program that includes other elements of socialization. This could include different people properly handling your dog, your dog being introduced to new smells, sounds, sights or objects. However, if the daycare includes your dog running around on over-stimulation all day…I’d go the opposite direction.

It's Not about PASS OR FAIL

In the last week or so, I have had a handful of dogs arrive to their evaluation who were extremely fearful. These dogs were showing signs of flattened ears, lip licking, cowering, raised hackles, hiding behind their owners, avoidance, scratching, tails tucked, and yawning. And no…it is not because the dog is tired. The dog is stressed. Really stressed.

A lot of these subtle signs are often missed or misinterpreted altogether but are the exact signals I am looking for each and every single time a dog comes for its evaluation. Why? Because I want to do what is in the best interest of the dog. Selfishly, as a business owner, of course I love new business. It helps me reach my personal goals and business goals. But while I love growing my business, I also have integrity. I enjoy honestly and accurately communicating transparent feedback that advocates for the dog back to the owner. And while yes, I know the information can be a lot to take in (and sometimes be confusing, overwhelming, or catch people off guard) this is no different than being willing to address that perhaps our children are not “perfect.”

So, let’s begin there. There is no such thing as a perfect dog. I do not care how well-trained or how great your dog is in your home — the more “perfection” you are looking for…the more maintenance and consistency the behavior takes. I think a lot of trainers would agree owners may experience one behavior in their household, but a different behavior elsewhere. Too many times I see owners thinking their happy-go-lucky dog who has been nowhere a day in its life is supposed to thrive and be confident in a place it has never been with a person it has never met before. I don’t know about you guys, but when I meet a new person, it takes me a hot minute to build a relationship with them. So why would we expect our dog to just automatically bond and trust every single person it meets? It is simply just not fair to the dog.

Not only is it the same as taking your dog to a new environment with new smells, sights, sounds and other dogs and animals, it is the same result we get when we are proofing behaviors. Maybe your dog sits perfectly in the kitchen when you dangle a treat in its face, but the second you go on a walk and see another dog it’s like your dog does not even know the word sit. It’s because we have added new elements in. A new environment. New distractions. I think the first thing we all need to learn is to not be so hard on ourselves. We need to let the idea go that our dogs are perfect. We need to be fair and realistic in our expectations. And at the same time, we need to man up, hold ourselves accountable and address the things that should be addressed in fairness to the dog.

When a dog comes for its evaluation it is not about PASS OR FAIL to me. It is about doing the right thing; for the dog. Now, what would happen if that same dog went to a different facility or a commercial kennel? Would they “pass” the assessment? Of course, it is quite possible. Some places are just turning numbers. Some may have an inexperienced evaluator. Some may not care. For me, I try to pretend each dog that comes in for its evaluation is my personal dog. What would I recommend if this dog was mine? Don’t get me wrong, the dogs are still GOOD dogs. But in my opinion, when a dog refuses to eat, cowers and shakes, pees out of submission, or gets bloody stool…it is not in the best interest of the dog. When the dog is a potential bite risk because it is so scared…it is just not fair to the animal. Many people from other facilities will say “oh they always said my dog was great!” Im sorry to be the bearer of bad news, they lied. They wanted your business and wanted you to leave feeling so great about your dog that you would return again. They did you a disservice. They took your stressed out dog and made the problem even worse not knowing how to properly handle it. And to all the other business owners out there who operate like this, shame on you. Raise the bar.

So, what next you say? Is that it — my dog will never confidently be able to go anywhere because it is too fearful or scared? No…not at all. During my thorough evaluation one of the first things I recommend is training. I recommend finding a professional trainer who falls in line with your training philosophies and can help your dog get better (and you with your dog!). Helping your dog heal. Helping the dog build confidence, learning to work through stress and anxiety and receive proper socialization. And when I say socialization I do not mean dog to dog socialization. I mean getting your dog out and about to places like the fire station, parks, stores that allow dogs and so on. Introducing them to a variety of people of different shapes, sizes, and colors. People with hats and beards and sunglasses. And when I say introducing, I do not mean people getting down on their hands and knees overwhelming your dog. I mean exposing your dog from a distance and reading its body language. It is extremely important to learn your dog and how to communicate with your dog. All of these drills and skills are going to build your dog up to be able to exist in new places with confidence. But it will not happen overnight.

So, when I make a recommendation to someone…it is certainly not for my health. It is not because it makes me feel good their dog is unhappy or stressed. It is because the dog truly would benefit from training. Even a “perfect” and happy dog benefits from training. Too many times we avoid instead of address…and we need to address and not avoid.

In addition to training, another option I try to give to people is slowly getting their dog acclimated through spending time here. For some dogs, a daycare day with others dogs is still too much — and an “off” day where their dog can learn to relax is the better option. I think everyone has the same goal — we want peace of mind on both ends, and we just want the dog to be happy.

If you feel like this article is talking to you or someone you know, just know you are not alone. I strongly encourage you to do the right thing for your dog. Find help, find training. Even if you think you are never going to board your dog a day in its life. What if it tears its ACL, goes for surgery and must spend the night at the unfamiliar hospital? What if you need to flee your home due to an emergency and stay at a hotel? What if YOU have an emergency and you HAVE to find help for your dog? Do not wait until the last minute. Please, I encourage you, advocate for YOUR dog the same way I want to advocate for your dog.

Get Acclimated!

the dog ranch has always taken a lot of pride in being honest with clients, over- communicating with detailed & transparent updates, and always having a dog’s best interest first and foremost. i will personally be the first one to tell a dog owner after meeting their dog if i do not feel we are the best fit. i will also tell them if i feel we need more time. sometimes i don’t know right away since a dog arrived stressed or over aroused; and i am not afraid to say that. there is no shame in being honest with someone…as i would want the same respect for my animals.

when the dog ranch was born eight years ago, it seems there were just a handful of commercial pet facilities around, and only a few private home pet-sitters. as of recent, it seems that private homes are popping up everywhere. there are also a handful of facilities that seem to pop up thinking that just because one is a dog lover…it means they are suitable to operate and care for the many different behaviors, personalities, and health challenges a dog may possess.

what has allowed the dog ranch to be so successful well beyond just being passionate for dogs, is being able to hold the best interest of a dog over a dollar bill. almost all of my clients are word of mouth referrals. many of those referrals are individuals that are already boarding their dog overnight at a commercial facility or participating in a daycare program elsewhere. while the dog ranch is small, quaint, and cozy — one of the drawbacks is reaching maximum capacity quickly, and not always having the extreme flexibility that a commercial business would. however, we like to keep things personal, so it depends on how you look at it.

one thing that makes the dog ranch extremely special is the standard and expectation we hold each and every dog to. while new business is wonderful, we are not here to take on every single dog that comes through the gate if it means sacrificing the well being of other dogs or humans.

that being said, many dog owners make the assumption just because their dog passed the assessment at a big named facility..that they will be “just fine here.” unfortunately it has not always been the case. due to the lack of transparency at some places, i have come to realize they fail to communicate with dog owners the true observations of behaviors taking place. some owners have no idea how stressed, anxious, or disengaged their dogs become. some are not aware why their dog has stopped eating or has loose stool (and sometimes they don’t even know!).

my challenge to you…is no matter where you take your dog, or decide to take your dog in the future…ask the important questions. ask specifics about behavior, dog to dog interactions, and overall demeanor. it may just help you hold the best interest of your dog above all else…when not everywhere around will do that for you.