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Training the Domestic Dog
Canids have had an affinity with humans from the very moment that they and early man worked out that there could be a mutually convenient relationship between them (Canis Lupis) a least 14,000 years ago. Man needed help tracking and hunting their food and Canids needed to ensure there was a food source during times of scarcity and overpopulation. Canis Lupus Familiaris - the domestic dog was evolving.
The theories behind how humans need to interact with their dogs to train them to work or be companion animals have been numerous. One of the most widely known is the “The Alpha Dog Theory”. This method has now being debunked by the scientist and researcher David Mech who advocated it in the first place. His research extended that of Swiss behaviourist Rudolph Schenkal, who in the 1930’s brought together a group of unrelated captive wolfs from different zoos to study their behaviour. The study noted that the wolves fought over resources and dominance and this was the basis on which the “Alpha Dog Theory” was formed. The research was flawed however, as wolfs live naturally in family packs and the study unit was not related in anyway and had therefore not formed the relationships that a family pack would have.
You can see David Mech discussing the debunking of this theory in his video here https://youtu.be/tNtFgdwTsbU
Positive Reinforcement
The 'Alpha Dog' method of training did nothing for the relationship between the dog and handler except create an element of fear. The dogs were being forced to give the behaviour the handler wanted and the consequence of not doing so, was rough and dominant handling. Research found that this type of training very often resulted in the dog being more anxious and afraid of consequences and very often led to aggressive tendencies.
More recent and multiple studies have now shown that developing a trusting relationship with a dog using positive/reward based training methods produces consistent long term results. By rewarding and praising the behaviour that the dog chooses to give you, you are telling him that he has chosen the right behaviour and he learns to associate that behaviour with good things. You are able to train him to associate certain words and/or hand signals with the behaviour you request, therefore teaching ‘come’, ‘sit’, ‘stay’ etc.
This technique is also used when a dog may be oversensitive to certain situations. Gaining his attention when he is worrying about something, having him concentrate on you or another task, praising and rewarding with a tasty morsel will slowly allow him to overcome his fears and in turn learn to put his trust in you to keep him safe.
Our Training Methods
We only use positive training methods . Three Spotty Dogs K9 Training's aim is to help you develop your relationship with your dog so that you understand him and what he might be trying to tell you and he understands you and what you are asking of him.
This relationship is not one of you being the boss or "alpha" it is one of trust and understanding developed through reward based training.
We use rewards, such as treats, toys, praise and play to encourage your dog to make good choices. Marking a wanted behaviour with a treat and praise, tells the dog that he has done well. Repeating the process reinforces it and builds confidence when he starts to realise that he is making the right choices. You will learn what motivates your own puppy. He might respond to food rewards, or perhaps he prefers to be rewarded by being given a few moments with his favourite toy. Whatever his reward of choice, he will let you know.
Every puppy and dog is different in how quickly or slowly they might progress, so we encourage our clients to work at their own dog's pace. This means that neither owner or puppy feel overwhelmed which can have a detrimental effect on training and the relationship you are trying to build with your dog. With two members of the TSDK9 training team present at each class, you will always be fully supported whilst training.
Training Classes
Classes are split into four levels.
Puppy class for puppies to receive their first taste of a class training environment and will receive training in line with the Kennel Club Good Citizen Puppy Foundation Course.
Novice class for dogs of any age that are ready for the next level of training in line with the Kennel Club Good CItizen Bronze Award.
Intermediate class for those dogs progressing to the level of Kennel Club Good Citizen Silver
Advanced class for those dogs working towards the level of Kennel Club Good Citizen Gold Award.
In all classes socialisation and habituation excercises will be included and advice on how to continue these essential experiences away from class.