Dog Training That Builds Communication & Trust
Dog Obedience Classes in North Port, FL
Force-Free Training
Positive Reinforcement
All Breeds. All Ages.
Basic obedience provides the foundation for everything from a well-mannered family dog to guide dogs, service dogs, SAR dogs, agility, freestyle, tricks, and more. But before we ask a dog to follow commands, we first need to build a relationship based on mutual trust, respect, communication, and motivation.
Can Obedience Training Help Your Relationship with Your Dog?
Essential commands? Better communication and engagement? Skills that hold up around distractions?
Yes. Let’s start by building that relationship.
Building the Relationship Before Teaching the Commands
Basic obedience is the fundamental foundation for guide dogs, service dogs, SAR dogs, agility, freestyle, tricks, and so on.
However, we must establish a relationship of mutual trust and respect with the dog before we can request commands and expect the dog to follow us.
There must also be communication and motivation.
Sessions One & Two: Relationship, Engagement & Basic Commands
Sessions one and two focus on building the relationship with your dog. This is done using various games to make it fun for both the dog and the pet owner. Games also enhance the relationship with the dog.
Some games will involve treats and others will not, but building that foundational bond is absolutely necessary. We know there is engagement when the dog begins to check in with us — looking up into our eyes.
Once we have this focus and solid engagement, we can begin teaching commands. The commands sit, down, stay, place, and come are essential if you are considering Canine Good Citizen certification.
These commands can typically be taught through games, interaction, or play with our dog. Once the dog understands the behavior, we can add the cue. There will also be detailed, step-by-step instruction on how to perform each command.
Session Three: Expanding Your Dog's Skills
Session three focuses on:
- Heel
- Drop it
- Leave it
- Stand
Sessions Four Through Six: Duration, Distance & Distractions
Sessions four, five, and six focus on introducing duration, distance, and distractions in various environments and situations.
Training Continues at Home
There is always the understanding and expectation that it is essential to go home after each session and practice the techniques and strategies you have learned.
If there are others in your household, it is imperative that they understand and are able to perform the same techniques and strategies you have learned.
As you teach others in your family, it will help you become a better handler.
What better family project than everyone working together toward a common goal?
The more different people work with the dog in a consistent, persistent, calculated manner, the more the dog can generalize these behaviors.
Building Confidence in Dogs and Handlers
During later sessions, we will switch dogs so the dogs have the benefit of learning from each person in the group. Each person also has the opportunity to work with another dog.
It might seem scary, but it WILL make you a better handler.
We are building confidence in both the handlers and the dogs.
Dog Obedience Training FAQs
What commands will my dog learn?
The program includes foundational commands such as sit, down, stay, place, and come, followed by skills including heel, drop it, leave it, and stand. Later sessions introduce duration, distance, and distractions.
Will I need to practice with my dog between classes?
Yes. Practicing the techniques and strategies you learn during each session is an essential part of the process. Consistency at home helps your dog understand and generalize the behaviors you are working on together.
Should other members of my household participate in the training?
Whenever possible, yes. Having family members understand and use the same techniques helps provide consistency for your dog. As I point out, teaching someone else what you have learned can also help you become a better handler.
Every Good Partnership Starts with a Little Understanding
Let's find the right next step for you and your dog.