Dog Training

Canine Behavior Modification in Cleveland

February 21, 2025February 21, 2025by Shaina

At Up N Atom Dog Training, we only offer behavior modification (training for aggressive, reactive, extremely fearful/anxious dogs, resource guarding, or otherwise) through our 6+ week board and train programs. We understand that working with an aggressive or reactive dog is a serious responsibility, one that requires skill, experience, and a controlled environment to ensure both safety and long-term success. That is why we do not offer private lessons or at-home training sessions for aggressive behavior. Let me explain why.

First and foremost, dog owners are not professional dog trainers. That’s not a slight—it’s simply a reality. Training a dog, especially one struggling with aggression, is not just about telling them what to do; it’s about perfecting timing, technique, and understanding canine behavior at a deep level. A misstep in training—such as failing to read the dog’s body language or reacting with incorrect timing—can reinforce the very aggression we are trying to eliminate and poses a serious safety issue. Working with an aggressive dog without the necessary skills can put the owner, the dog, and the general public at risk. Our board and train program allows professionals with years of experience to handle these dogs correctly, giving them the structure and exposure they need in a way that is safe and effective.

Dutch Shepherd Dog

Another key reason we only offer behavior modification via board and train is access to critical training resources. As professional trainers, we work with other skilled trainers, well-balanced and well-trained dogs, and controlled environments that are designed to expose dogs to their triggers safely. Dog owners, no matter how dedicated, simply do not have access to these resources on a day-to-day basis. If a dog is reactive toward other dogs, we have trained, neutral dogs that can be used to teach proper social behavior. If a dog has fear-based aggression, we can gradually and safely expose them to stressors in a controlled setting with dogs/people/distractions we can control, ensuring they learn to navigate their fears rather than react with aggression. Attempting to do this without the right environment and experience can lead to setbacks, injuries, and increased behavioral issues. Think about how often dog owners are accosted by off leash dogs in public, or people who try to pet their dogs without asking. Having the ability to regularly train in a safe, controlled environment is gold for beginning behavior modification.

Often times, dogs who are in need of behavioral training have an unhealthy mental state in their regular environment, and around their owners. These dogs may be overly clingy when new people are around, possessive, more territorial, or more nervous when at home with their family. Board and train offers a hard reset, by taking the dog out of the environment where bad behavior tends to occur. In a private lesson format, dogs may not bond to their dog trainer at all, making it difficult for the dog trainer to handle them to demonstrate techniques or to help the dog owner through a difficult training situation. Living with a dog trainer for an extended period of time allows the dog the ability to bond with a new human who has a new set of rules and expectations, and gives the dog trainer the ability to push the dog further than a dog owner may be capable of. At Up N Atom Dog Training, our trainers will only work through “stranger danger” with dogs they have a very solid relationship with for safety reasons; another important reason we only offer behavior modification through board and train.

Mondioring Object Guard Malinois

Our goal is not just to suppress aggressive behavior but to modify it in a way that allows the dog to live a more balanced and stress-free life. Board and train programs allow us to work intensively with dogs, shaping their responses in real-time, adjusting our techniques as needed, and ensuring they are set up for success before transitioning back to their owners. Our programs tend to be longer when dealing with behavioral concerns (at least six weeks) to give the dog time to settle into their new routine/environment, bond with their dog trainer, and de-stress. We then try to tap into some feel-good activities to make the dog enjoy the training, by using jackpot reward events, and building play into the dogs daily routine. Once the dog is happy, working for food/toys, and in a good space to begin learning, we then teach the dog obedience skills in controlled environments to help prepare them for the real world. This process takes a few weeks, before we’re about to “take it on the road” in new environments where life is less predictable. Skipping the first few steps may result in a trained dog, but it does nothing to address WHY the dog is experiencing behavioral issues to begin with. We aren’t willing to cut corners when it comes to behavior modification, so the longer duration is important to us.

Once a dog has undergone the proper foundation training in our program, we can then guide the owners on how to maintain the progress at home. This is a critical step; training only works if you work it, so making sure the dog owner knows how to play with their dog, how to reward them in a way that builds confidence, how to use their training equipment, how to read their dog, and how to enforce the new training skills is a high priority. Private lessons with a dog who has already been trained, and has been in difficult environments WITH their dog trainer, tend to be significantly less overwhelming to the dog owner. Rather than learning how to train a dog, the owner now gets to learn how to better live with the trained dog. It is safer, and tends to be more effective for all involved.

Aggressive Dog Training Cleveland — North East Ohio Dog Trainer

We understand that every dog is unique, and behavior modification requires a tailored approach. But one thing remains constant: handling aggression requires experience, control, and access to the right tools and environments. That is why we at Up N Atom Dog Training stand by our board and train programs as our safest and most effective way for us to help aggressive dogs and their owners achieve lasting success.

Dog Training

Dog Training Concepts for Dog Owners

December 4, 2024by Shaina

Training your new dog or puppy is an important part of dog ownership! Dog training helps your dog learn good habits and live a more fulfilled life. A dog that you can trust to make good decisions is a dog that is easy and enjoyable to live with. This guide is a great place to start on your training journey, but for more in depth basic obedience training or advanced off leash dog training, local dog trainers near you can help guide your pup on the path to becoming a well-behaved companion. Up N Atom Dog Training Cleveland would be happy to help you if you are in the Northeast Ohio area.

Use a Positive Reinforcement-Based Training System.

Understanding and appropriately applying all four quadrants of learning is key when trying to teach advanced dog training cues. Positive reinforcement should be the building blocks set when it comes to successfully training your dog. Experienced dog trainers know how to use all quadrants of learning properly, but should always teach using positive reinforcement, only layering over positive punishment to skills that your dog knows and understands. Our dog trainers at Up N Atom Dog Training are well-versed in (and very passionate about) balanced dog training, which begins by using a liberal foundation of positive reinforcement, then uses negative reinforcement, negative punishment, and positive punishment as your dog progresses in their training.

Learn How To Play With Your Dog.

It sounds simple, but properly playing with a dog is an art-form in itself. Dogs who want to tug, chase, and fetch NEED those outlets to be happy, confident dogs. Many dog owners lack the skillset to really encourage their dogs chase and tug the way nature does; learning how to properly play will give your dog a great outlet, encourage bonding with you, and allows you to use a variety of rewards in your training. If you have a dog who wants to play tug, you need this DVD in your doggy education toolbox: The Power of Playing Tug With Your Dog

Start With the Basics.

The very first thing we work on with new dogs is engagement. Engagement training encourages a dog to CHOOSE to pay attention, rather than us begging for it. Dog training is much more difficult when you’re starting with a dog who doesn’t want to look at you! Once you have some focus, but before you move on to more complex skills, take time to really focus on the basics: name recognition, wait at the door, sit and down. Then, you can start more advanced skills such as walking on a loose leash, coming when called, and bed-stay. Skipping out on important basics will make things much harder when your dog has developed bad habits!

Create Realistic Goals for Your Dog’s Training Progress

Creating realistic goals will help you and your pup progress in a timely manner. It is important to remember that teaching your dog or puppy new commands can take time, so don’t be discouraged if it takes longer than expected. Overloading your dog with more tasks when they are not ready for them has the potential to make them confused or frustrated, and can cause them to give up all together. So, start off with simple commands, master them in areas of low distraction, and then gradually increase the distance, distraction, and duration of the tasks as they get better.

Practice Your Training During Walks and Other Activities.

Walks, playtime and other day-to-day activities are major opportunities for practicing your dog’s training. For example, instead of just letting your pup run free at the park, try asking them to “sit” or “down” for their favorite toy, and then throw the toy when they do so. If you’re taking a hike, practice “place” on tree stumps, and work on coming when called (on a long line, of course!). Inserting training drills in your every day life not only keeps things interesting but helps your do anticipate their obedience commands anywhere and anytime.

Dog Training

Pros and Cons of Board and Train for Dogs

May 27, 2024October 14, 2024by Shaina

WHAT EXACTLY IS A “BOARD AND TRAIN” PROGRAM FOR DOGS?

With a board and train program, you leave your dog for a set period of time to stay at a dog training facility or a dog trainer’s house. Your dog’s day is spent developing new skills or addressing other behavioral problems, as well as playing and getting structured one-on-one time with their trainer. A professional dog trainer does the repetitions (generally daily, but every company is different) and then helps you learn how to maintain the skills once your dog graduates from the program. At Up N Atom, our board and train programs take place in our experienced dog trainer’s home, giving your dog or puppy a 24/7 immersive training experience.

HOW LONG DOES A STAY AND TRAIN LAST?

Depending on the behaviors you want to address, and the trainer’s program options, the length of your dog’s training while boarding will vary, but most generally last between two and five weeks. Some dog trainers will offer shorter board and train programs for learning fundamental skills, while more difficult behavioral concerns (aggression, lunging and barking at dogs or people, high levels of anxiety, separation anxiety, phobias, or otherwise) will likely require a longer Doggy Bootcamp stay. Our dog trainer recommends going for the longest program option you are able to do, as it gives dog trainer’s more time to proof behaviors under high level distractions, and on field trips to new places such as parks, stores, and hiking trails. Since board and train programs are a big emotional and financial investment, it’s always a good idea to get the absolute most out of the training time as possible.

While your dog is enrolled in a training camp style program, you may be required to regularly attend lessons so you can become familiar with the human side of the training equation. Other programs might choose to forego this, and the owner education piece comes in when your dog graduates from the training program. At Up N Atom, we provide Cleveland dog owners regular video and photo updates that keep you up to speed on the program (as well as your pup’s attitude, health, and new skills) and send you a comprehensive packet of training homework to study while your dog is in training. We also may recommend private lessons during the program, so you can learn how to begin to apply your dogs new training. Then, you have private lessons to utilize beginning the day you pick up your dog, where you learn how to keep up with the skills at home, how to use any prescribed dog training equipment, and how to begin introducing your dog to more difficult situations/distractions using the new training skills. The owner coaching portion of a boarding and training program is critical, and you should only consider programs that put a heavy emphasis on a dog trainer training you as well as they train your dog.

A mastiff swims in a lake near Dayton Ohio

HOW MUCH DOES A BOARDING WHILE TRAINING PROGRAM COST?

The price of a board and train program varies depending on where you live and how long your dog will be staying. The low end for most training programs runs approximately $1000/week. This cost usually takes into consideration nightly boarding, regular obedience training on site and on field trips, behavioral modification if the dog is having issues, follow up lessons, prescribed dog training equipment, and the general daily care such as feeding, brushing, exercising, and rotating to potty. Dog board and train programs involve way more than just dog-sitting with some training if you’re working with a reputable dog training company. Reputable board and train programs should include daily exercise, enrichment, and playtime in addition to providing a safe environment around-the-clock to prevent the rehearsing of undesirable behaviors and decrease physical risk to the dog. Up N Atom Dog Training forgoes the kennel facility experience and instead offers a more intimate program where the dogs live in the house with their dog trainer, adding extra security and comfort to dog owners who want their dogs to train and play in a quieter, home-like setting.

CHOOSING A BOARDING AND TRAINING PROGRAM

A high price tag does not always mean that a board and train program is being offered by licensed or morally upright professional dog trainers. Anyone can use the title “dog trainer” and offer board and train as dog training is an unregulated industry. When enrolling your dog in a board and train program with a prospective dog trainer or training facility, it is crucial that you conduct a thorough background check on them to avoid becoming one of the tragic stories of dogs being abused, stolen, or lost during a board and train program. You should do your research thoroughly by checking google reviews, visiting social media pages, and touring the training facility whenever possible prior to enrolling in a program. You’ll want to ask the dog trainer what their qualifications are, what continued education they pursue, and what methods and techniques they use to train dogs. Make sure you are comfortable with what methods and tools are used with your dog.

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a board and train facility. Does your dog stay in a kennel or dog run when not training? Or do they stay in a home environment? Is the facility or home clean and safe? Are proper cleaning products used to lower the risk of illness transmission? Are there any potential dangers present that indicate an area is not fully dog-proofed (proper containment areas, etc.)? Are dogs required to be up to date on vaccinations and on flea and tick preventatives? If board and train staff notice your dog not eating or losing weight, what do they do to combat that problem? How many dogs can enroll in a program at one time? How is barking controlled? How much human interaction will your dog get every day? What types of enrichment and exercise does your dog get each day? Will there be any playtime with other dogs (if appropriate) or with people? These questions can help you choose a program that you are most comfortable with, and prevent an overly stressful experience for your dog.

BOARD AND TRAIN PROGRAMS: BENEFITS AND DISADVANTAGES

Convenience is a major benefit of a board-and-train program. It takes a lot of work to train a dog. Your schedule might not provide much time for training because of your work schedule, kids activities, travel plans, or other obligations. Winter time means low temperatures and unpredictable weather. A dog trainer is being paid to train your dog every day, wind, snow, or shine. For busy folks who simply do not have the time to get in the necessary training repetitions required to teach new skills, a board and train option can be an excellent option.

Your dog will receive a lot of repetitions for training skills with a daily training schedule, and those repetitions will be performed by a dog trainer who has better timing, a deeper understanding of dog behavior, and sharper training skills than you do. Faster learning results from quality, repetitive practice. A good board and train program will also provide an atmosphere where your dog won’t engage in naughty habits that can impede their training, such as pulling on the leash in between training sessions, jumping on the counter, getting into the trash, or practicing aggressive behavior towards other dogs or people. Dog trainers also tend to have more access to other dogs, cats, dog-savvy people, and training locations than the average pet owner does, meaning skills can be generalized easier.

Board and train programs change the dog’s environment, which can make learning easier. There are instances when a dog’s environment at home naturally causes undesirable behaviors, and it can be challenging to alter the environment to stop the behavior from happening. For example, it is difficult to get a dog to stop counter surfing, jumping on guests at your front door, or from chasing joggers down the fence line if those triggers exist in your daily environment. At a dog training facility, or trainer’s home, the environment is easier to control and dog trainers can introduce those types of distractions strategically without them being practiced during “downtime” outside of training. Environmental management and prevention of poor behaviors are essential for accelerating learning! Many dog owners believe training needs to take place where the dog is currently, and that’s simply not true; your dog trainer will provide detailed home follow-up instructions and upkeep to help you navigate that more challenging environment once the skills are solid.

Stress can be a disadvantage of a board-and-train program for some dogs. Some dogs find traveling away from home to be distressing, as they don’t have a trusting relationship with the new folks running the show and the routine is different. A dog needs time to adjust to a new environment and routine which generally takes at least a few days; tense or fearful dogs may take longer. The acclimatization period, often known as the transition time, is important. Learning is not facilitated by stress. So, sending a dog to board and train means that, at minimum, the first few days are focused on acclimating a dog to their new environment and building a relationship with the trainer. This is why we require a minimum of three weeks for advanced obedience at Up N Atom — we want dogs to have a few days to settle in before the training begins.

One of the biggest reasons some people are unhappy with results after a board and train program is a lack of owner compliance to the new training system. At the end of the day, your dog has a learned history of what works in their home environment and a different learned history in the board and train environment. Your dog will be learning and practicing with a professional trainer or training staff — not you. You are the one who will be living with your dog full-time. The way you communicate with your dog — how you move, how you give cues, how you reward, and how you respond to undesired behaviors — is what affects their training and behavior the most. You are one of the most important antecedents in the dog training equation! If you don’t put in the effort to learn how to maintain the training at home (or you do not have a dog trainer who is willing to take the time to teach you how to act like a dog trainer) your dog will soon revert back to what they used to do. This can be frustrating for people who did not get the proper follow up instruction after investing in a board and train. They see how well their dog performs for the trainer, but then feel like it didn’t “stick” or that somehow they’ve failed. Owner instruction has to happen for long term success, and that means dog owners need to read all of their homework instructions, pay attention during the graduation lesson, schedule their follow up lessons, and immediately contact their dog trainer if they are struggling.

PUPPY BOARDING AND TRAINING

If you have a new puppy in your life, it can be overwhelming to make sure they get lots of positive experiences in a variety of environments during their critical socialization period. A board and train program can be ideal to provide appropriate socialization to different people, other dogs, and other important experiences. This requires a dog trainer who knows how to raise a confident puppy, because bad experiences during this socialization window can have lifelong effects on a developing brain.

While a board and train can be very helpful for socialization with appropriate dogs, people, and places the average dog owner doesn’t have access to (or time to access), a Board and Train Program for a puppy isn’t generally that helpful for potty training. Housetraining is probably one of the most exhausting parts of raising a puppy. And while you might feel that passing this task off to a trainer at a board and train program sounds like a good idea, it doesn’t tend to help much. Potty training is incredibly location-specific for young puppies. They may be housetrained quickly at a board and train where the routine and the potty spot are consistent, but once they return home, they have to relearn where they are supposed to go potty. It might not be starting at square one due to physical maturity that takes place during a training program, but it certainly won’t be done.

There are many benefits to beginning puppy training sooner rather than later. Having a dog professional on board to guide you through the process can make a lot of common problematic behaviors (biting, jumping, pottying in the house) easier to navigate, and by starting training young we can help guide our puppy into long-term behaviors we want when they are an adult dog. Board and train for puppies can be a great thing, as long as dog owners are realistic about what can be accomplished with a baby puppy and are willing to continue the work at home.

BOARD AND TRAIN FOR AGGRESSIVE DOGS

There are different types of aggression in dogs, and a board and train for aggressive dogs will not cure aggression (nor will any other type of dog training program). Management and safety are key components for addressing a dog’s aggression and requires the dog owner to learn proactive and defensive handling, dog body language, and how to effectively manage their dog’s environment.

Aggressive dog training

A Reactive Dog Bootcamp will benefit a dog struggling with leash reactivity, as your trainer will be able to quickly teach the reactive dog obedience skills (leash walking, coming when called, bed stay) and then expose the dog to a lot of new dogs, people, places, and things to help move the process forward as a faster pace than they would be able to with an inexperienced dog handler. Then, just like a regular board and train, the dog trainer will coach the dog owner how to be successful at home. Reactivity can take a long time to fully resolve, so expect to do significant follow up training after your dog returns home.

Aggressive behavior can either exacerbated or suppressed in an unfamiliar environment with a new handler (the dog trainer). A dog may shut down in the new environment, or they may exhibit more aggressive behavior than usual. Either way, the aggressive dog needs time to unwind and settle in as stress makes it difficult to practice counter conditioning methods (which is used to help change a negative emotional response to a positive one) and to teach critical obedience skills (leash walking, recall, bed-stay, wait at the door, leave it, all under heavy distraction), so longer program durations will be required. It is important to note that aggression is always managed, and never fully cured. While a Bootcamp training program designed for addressing aggression is always going to make a dog easier to live with — assuming the dog trainer is knowledgable, and the dog owner is committed to following the training protocols — they are not going to make a truly aggressive dog social with former triggers.

ARE BOARD AND TRAIN PROGRAMS WORTH IT?

Sending your dog off to boarding and training near you is worth it if your expectations match what’s actually possible in a short time period. While three weeks seems like a long time to be away from your dog, it is a very short time in the grand scheme of things. Dog trainers are not magicians and a board and train program still requires intensive owner commitment, daily repetitions to upkeep behavior, and a long-term dog training plan. Behavior change does not happen overnight. It doesn’t happen in one or two weeks. Training your dog is a lifelong commitment. A board and train program can certainly jumpstart your dog’s learning and get where you want to be faster than group classes or private lessons, but you need to be committed to the training program for the long haul.

Overall, board and train programs for dogs can be a good option for those dog owners who are committed to continuing training for long after the program ends. Because a board and train can be a major financial investment, it’s important to make sure you’re choosing the right program to meet the needs of you and your dog. If you live in the Cleveland, Ohio area, reach out and see what we can offer for you and your dog.

Training for Reactive Dogs

May 26, 2024December 5, 2024by Shaina

Troubleshooting behavioral problems in dogs can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Despite all of our best efforts, there will be dogs that have a hard time adapting to the world in the way we’d like them to. This is especially true with reactivity cases where the reactive behavior stems from fear and insecurity — no matter how much training, structure, and consistency we provide for them. While these issues can be difficult, there are things we can do to make it easier on ourselves and our dogs.

Reactive behavior is often an emotional response that becomes deep-rooted in our dogs personality over time. There are many cases where by the time professional help is involved, the dog has lost trust in their handler, strangers, other dogs, and the environment to the point that they are essentially living with a form of PTSD. In these situations, just the thought of a trigger appearing can send them into a full-blown panic. The response they have is not rational, but it can be nearly impossible for them to control themselves. When we are dealing with these types of cases it is CRITICAL to look at the entire picture of the dog. We need to make sure the dog understands what we are asking of them, and that we have properly prepared them to handle that environment. If the reactive dog cannot maintain heel position when nobody is around (with minimal interference), for example, they will likely fail around triggers. Taking it slow and steady and making sure all of the skills are muscle memory BEFORE taking the show on the road helps set the dog for success. They should also be well-exercised BEFORE any public training outings (treadmill training can be a great tool for this), so they are of clearer mind and body before training begins.

Reactivity Dog Training Chart — Our goal is to train our reactive dogs in a state where they are emotionally capable of learning.

Many dog trainers preach about “relationship” and how it influences reactivity. Perhaps your dog does fantastic when your spouse, or dog trainer, or dog walker takes them out, but is extremely reactive when you are holding the leash. Relationship is a big part of dog training, and we obviously need to address any holes there as a part of our training plan. Too much affection without enough structure, an unwillingness to reward good behavior and correct bad behavior, or allowing pushy/inappropriate behavior day-to-day can all absolutely fuel reactive behavior. Dogs like working with clear, consistent handlers who they know will keep them safe. Being a leader for your dog is being a role model who will advocate for them, not for someone who is unpredictable, nervous, and unclear. As your dogs handler, you should be 100% confident in your handling skills and expectations. You should ALSO be focusing on making yourself the most interesting thing in the room via engagement skills, long-line training (where your dog is able to make the correct decision — in a safe space — without constant leash tension and tugging), and you should be giving lots of rewards for good behavior. Some dogs, however, are just more reactive by nature. We see it often in herding breeds, and in dogs who are shy/nervous/anxious. These dogs would likely always exhibit reactivity to some degree due to their genetics, no matter how early we began training. Those cases likely won’t be immediately cured by a good relationship and obedience training alone, but they should show major improvements over time if we stick to a productive, well-thought-out training plan.

Sometimes, physical and emotional maturity can help decrease reactive behavior (if maturity happens in conjunction with solid obedience, confidence building, and engagement with the handler). “Picking the scab” by repeatedly putting the dog in situations where they feel overwhelmed and reactive in the name of exposure can easily push a dog to the point of no return. With a young, maturing dog, sometimes the best thing we can do is take a step back from training in busy spaces all together, and focus on slow-and-steady confidence building in environments we know the dog will be successful. This doesn’t mean hiding behind trees and only taking the dog out at 3AM, but it does mean they should only go places they feel confident and safe (large open spaces away from other dogs and people, their dog training center where they feel secure and have fun, Day Training programs where they can be around other dogs under the guidance of a trainer, and the like) while avoiding places such as parks with no easy escape route, dog-friendly stores, patios, and, yes, neighborhood walks where they have had repeated bad experiences, until they are older. This may mean loading your dog up to a quiet neighborhood to do your training walk so they don’t encounter “that house with a dog who always charges them from behind the fence/front door/etc” for the foreseeable future, as those types of repeated encounters cause some dogs to go on the defensive well before the trigger appears.

Mental Maturity in Dogs — Some dogs may begin to decrease reactive behavior when they are mentally mature, if we take the proper steps through adolescence.

Reactivity is tough. It can be frustrating, and hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. We have to go into these cases understanding that while training can massively improve our lives with our dogs, each dog is an individual who will move at a different pace. Every dog with advanced training and dedicated owners should eventually be able to calmly navigate situations where there are other dogs/people/bikes/etc, IF we commit to taking it slow and being realistic about the dog in front of us. If you’re struggling with reactivity, you are absolutely not alone. Find help (we’d love to help you if you live in Northeast Ohio), and get your dog the training they need to begin to see the world as a less threatening place to be.

“Dog training is a journey, not a destination.”

A Shiloh Shepherd puppy training at a park in Columbus

Socialization – A Dirty Word in Dog Behavior?

March 12, 2024December 5, 2024by Shaina

As someone who has dedicated their entire life to dogs, dog training, and what makes a dog tick, I have deep empathy for dog owners who don’t understand their dogs behavior the way that I do. Naturally, there are days that I wish people researched how to best raise a canine the way they would a snake, ferret, or turtle, but I also acknowledge that dogs are unique in the role they play in our lives. I could ramble on and on about plenty of overlooked elements involved in inviting a predatory animal into our homes, but by far I think one of the most misunderstood aspects of raising dogs is “socialization”.

I remind myself that the order of operations is most commonly:

1. Find a puppy

2. Try to train the puppy the best known way

3. Look for a dog trainer if issues emerge

And that most people are trying their absolute best with the information that they have. There is so much bad information out there, it makes sense people are confused.

Almost every single phone consult I do, whether it be for a 12 week old puppy or a 6-year-old adult dog exhibiting aggression, well-meaning dog owners tell me about their dogs socialization experiences, or lack thereof. Some dog owners shamefully admit to me that they “have not socialized their dog enough” and that’s why they believe their dog is exhibiting x, y, z behavioral problems. Or, they exclaim that they have made sure to do lots of socialization but are still seeing some issues. The thing is, the things they believe they are doing to benefit their dog is often the exact reason they are struggling with them.

Why are these “well socialized” dogs reactive, anxious, aggressive, suffering from separation issues, crate phobic, not food motivated?…

For one, society — and society’s expectations of dogs — has changed. What once was “a dog will be a dog” is now “my dog is bad, because it doesn’t accept strangers touching them, children climbing on top of them during mealtime, they are not behaving at the brewery at 8 months old, they protect the property from people I know, and they are pulling me towards dogs/bikes/rabbits on leash”.

If you take the word “socialization” and trade it for “neutral exposure”, we can usually see things a bit clearer. Socialization today has become a poisoned word in dog ownership. Is your dog afraid of new people? Socialize them. Are they aggressive towards other dogs? They need more socialization. Is your dog too excited when greeting guests? You guessed it, socialization. The word is regurgitated from pet owners, dog trainers, veterinarians, and doggy daycare workers without much explanation on how to accomplish it. It’s a seemingly straightforward word that is interpreted to mean “if your dog has more interactions with stuff, they’ll get used to said stuff and get over it”. But that’s -not- how behavior works. A shy dog will not become less shy if they are flooded with interactions with strangers. A dog-aggressive dog will not become dog social if you take it to the dog park. There are limits to what physical interaction, exposure, training, and counter-conditioning can do for a dog. While there are absolutely things we can do to help dogs make better choices, we cannot change our dogs personality and social spectrum. Most dogs become less social with age, and that doesn’t make them a bad dog. But we can certainly create major behavioral problems through inappropriate socialization.

Nowadays, I find “under socialized” dogs are the rarity. Most dogs are either enrolled in training at a young age, brought to dog parks or daycares from puppyhood on, or are allowed to interact with random dogs and people on a regular basis without practicing -ignoring- an equal ratio of them. Most do all of the above. In such a dog-friendly world, it makes sense. Most puppies are not being shut off in one house for their critical socialization period, because people know now that early socialization is important when raising a puppy. What they don’t know is that allowing too much interaction is also a major no-no, and so they enroll in puppy class, take their puppy to daycare and dog parks, allow on leash greetings, ask their friends and family members to come over (with their dogs)… all the while, not focusing on calm, neutral behavior around dogs and people. Additionally, we are currently living in a world that is depending heavily on dog parks, dog daycare, and Rover sitters to care for and entertain our dogs, and our emphasis on good behavior has, unfortunately, not kept up.

To pinpoint on the focus of this post, here is what I guide puppy owners to do:

1. Focus on engagement skills, name recognition, and capturing good leash walking on a long-line in low-distraction environments.

2. Teach your puppy to enjoy working with you for food rewards

3. Only allow your puppy to physically interact with other people and dogs who will be a long-term part of their lives; groomers and veterinary staff, friends, family members, and their dogs, neighbors, and dog training staff/clients.

4. Utilize your crate at home throughout the day, and when you have guests over.

5. Don’t allow out of control play with dogs/people in the house.

6. Take your puppy to new areas to train, where the goal is having a great time with YOU, while ignoring dogs and people.

7. Do not allow strangers or strange dogs to come up to your puppy on leash.

8. Avoid dog parks and daycare (unless you are enrolled in a Day Train program, where a dog trainer is overseeing all interaction).

9. Enroll in puppy classes where playtime is not the focus.

10. Make sure your puppy is confident, calm, and focused during all outings for at least the first year of their life.

And even when you do everything right, at the end of the day genetics are going to play a major role on your dogs level of sociability. Which leaves many thinking.. so what is the point of socialization?

Proper socialization is about building as much confidence as possible, without creating a demanding monster who cannot focus in the world around them. It is about trying to set our dog up to be the best dog they can be, with or without a solid genetic backing. A well-socialized puppy who is genetically nervous will probably still be a nervous dog, but they hopefully will not turn into a reactive or outright aggressive dog. A well-socialized, social dog will likely avoid obsession-based reactive behaviors if we do things right. We are just trying to stack the odds in our favor, by not under-doing it, but also not overdoing it. We will not change the dog inside, but we may avoid problematic fallout if we do things correctly.

Next time you think about the word “socialization”, think about what you want to see in your dog long-term. Focus on teaching your dog how to cope around strangers, other dogs, and other distractions such as bicycles, squirrels, and strollers, and train for that picture, instead. Allow interactions with people and dogs that you know and trust, and create an environment that harbors structure and trust over excitement and franticness. While your dog may become more selective with age, setting a good foundation for neutrality early on may help prevent some serious concerns later. Socialization is important, indeed.. but only if we know what it is we’re actually talking about.

Choosing the Right Size Dog Toys to Prevent Choking

October 9, 2023by Shaina

Playing fetch can be a great energy outlet for your toy-loving dog. It provides exercise, mental stimulation, and strengthens the bond between dog and owner. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the toys you choose are safe for your dog, especially when it comes to balls. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of appropriately sized balls for dogs to prevent choking and offer some tips on making the right choice.

Why Size Matters

Choosing the right size of ball for your dog is essential for their safety and enjoyment during playtime. A ball that is too small can pose a choking hazard, as it may easily become lodged in your dog’s throat. Conversely, a ball that is too large might be difficult for your dog to carry or manipulate, which can lead to frustration or injuries.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Balls

Breed and Size

Different dog breeds have different mouth sizes. It’s important to select a ball that is proportionate to your dog’s size. For example, smaller dogs like Chihuahuas will need smaller balls, while larger breeds like Labradors require balls with a more substantial diameter. The ball should be large enough to rest just behind your dogs canine teeth, and be unable to slip down their throat.

Material

Opt for balls made from non-toxic, durable materials like rubber or natural latex. Avoid balls that are too soft, as they can be easily chewed or torn apart, potentially leading to choking hazards. Tennis balls become similar to sand-paper when they get dirt on them… imagine chewing on dirt! Not great for your teeth over time.

Texture

Choose a ball with an appropriate texture for your dog’s chewing habits. Some dogs prefer smooth balls, while others may enjoy textured surfaces that provide extra gum stimulation. If they are too slick, their size is even more critical as they may more easily slide down a dogs throat.

Weight

A ball that is too heavy may be challenging for small dogs to carry, while a ball that is too light may not engage larger dogs as effectively. Aim for a weight that allows your dog to pick up and carry the ball comfortably.

Supervision

Always supervise playtime, especially with a new toy. This way, you can observe how your dog interacts with the ball and intervene if there are any signs of discomfort or potential choking hazards. Consider a ball on a rope during supervised play; for one, you can chuck it way further, but also it gives you something to pull in case the ball does get lodged in your dogs throat.

Consider Interactive Toys

Consider using interactive toys like treat-dispensing balls such as a Buster Cube or a Kong Wobbler. These not only provide mental stimulation but also encourage slower, controlled play, reducing the risk of choking.

Regular Inspections

Regularly inspect your dog’s toys for signs of wear and tear. Replace any damaged or worn-out balls to prevent potential choking hazards.

Selecting the right-sized balls for your dog is a crucial step in ensuring their safety and enjoyment during playtime. By considering factors like your dogs breed, size, material, and texture, you can choose a ball that suits your dog’s individual needs. Remember to always supervise play and replace damaged toys promptly. With the right toy, you can provide your dog with hours of safe, enjoyable playtime.

Boarding with Training in Columbus: Our Dog Training Programs

March 10, 2023by Shaina

At Dog Dynamix Ohio, we put a lot of effort into ensuring that dogs and their owners achieve the best results through our selection of dog training programs. Our off-leash Board and Train options as well as our Puppy Training programs come with extensive owner counseling after graduation and have evolved over the years to get the greatest results possible.

Our Board and Train is a very popular program for dog owners in Columbus and Dayton looking to get high quality training results for their dogs on an expedited timeline.

We provide a few different Board and Train programs:

Our Ohio dog trainer will teach your dog how to walk properly on a leash, go to their bed (and stay there), come when you call them, behave correctly on field trips to various dog-friendly establishments, parks, trails, and more throughout our four-week off-leash focused training program.

If off-leash training isn’t a goal, our three-week program is a fantastic on-leash program that handles leash walking, wait at the door, bed-stay, and behavior at home and on field trips.

Additionally, we offer a ten-day program that focuses solely on walking nicely on leash around mild distractions, and basic house manners. This is a great program for dog owners going on vacation who want to make productive use of their time away from their dog.

For dogs who need an intensive training program focused on behavior modification, Dog Dynamix Ohio has a Dog Bootcamp that aims to treat troublesome behaviors in dogs like aggression, barking at other dogs or people on leash, separation anxiety, fear and phobias, and other issues. The long duration of this program allows for long-term behavioral adjustment, for the greatest results.

We have a puppy to adult Perfect Puppy Program for puppies that consists of two weeks of on-leash puppy foundation training (name recognition, crate games, beginning leash walking, wait at the door, leave it, confidence building, and handling for grooming), and three weeks of off-leash training when your puppy is at least seven months old.

In addition, we offer a two-week puppy training program that starts puppies off on the right track but does not get into the advanced off leash training when they are older.

So, why choose board and train for dogs?

The biggest benefit of a board and train program may be the amount of time that our experienced Columbus dog trainer can commit to training your dog. In a Board and Train program, your dog’s dog trainer gets the chance to put the training techniques to use every single day. We’ve been doing this for a long time, and our system works (and has been proven via many dogs each year!). While in training, your dog receives repetitions every day as well as deliberate introductions to new dogs, people, and environments intended to serve as distractions.

The daily training for a prolonged length of time can be quite helpful when trying to resolve more serious behavioral difficulties. Due to frequent exposure to long-term triggers, lack of consistency, and the fact that dog owners don’t have the skillset of a dog trainer, things can move more quickly with a trainer than they would at home.

At our specialized training facility, your trainer has access to a wider variety of people, dogs, and other significant distractions than you would at your house. It can be quite challenging to locate neutral dogs and people to work with frequently enough to make significant progress if your dog is overly thrilled to meet new people or other dogs. Dog trainers are able to set up your dog for success by using their own well-trained dogs, other dogs in training, dog trainer friends, and coworkers as everyday distractions. One of the most important aspects of dog training—and one that can be the most difficult—is teaching your dog how to behave consistently and securely around people and other dogs. In a dog training setting, socialization does not entail a free-for-all, overly enthusiastic greetings, improper conduct from the new human or dog, or anything else. We manage the atmosphere so that your dog learns how to act in a thoughtful and shrewd manner.

Some of us have very little time for dog training because our everyday lives are so busy, whether it’s because of work, kids, or a mix of things. Board and train programs can assist dog owners teach their dogs effectively on a tight schedule. In most cases, all you need to get ready for a Board and Train program is the food your dog will need for the duration of their stay and their vaccination documents. You don’t have to worry about keeping up with your weekly training “homework” in between appointments because the trainer will handle all the tiresome repetitions. Private Lesson programs are without a doubt a fantastic choice for many people, but if your schedule is already full, adding another commitment may be challenging. Knowing that your dog will receive the necessary training from a trainer you can trust and that all you need to do is pack up their food and drop them off removes your tension.

If you’re heading out of town for vacation, boarding and training programs are a terrific option. A Board and Train program may be the best option for you if you don’t want to board your dog while you’re away on business or vacation in an unstructured way that can create more bad behaviors. If you’re planning a trip and know you’ll need to board your dog, why not take advantage of the chance to combine excellent training with doing so? Your dog will behave better when you return, in addition to being in good hands while you’re away.

Dog Dynamix provides board and train programs for dogs and their owners in Ohio (Dayton and Columbus) and Colorado (including the Denver Metro area).

If you’re interested in our Board and Train Programs, please contact the trainer in your area by visiting their page (which is listed above)!

Two australian shepherd dogs practice a sit stay during their board and train program

Pros and Cons of Boarding and Training Programs for Dogs

March 7, 2023by Shaina

What exactly is a “Board and Training” Program for dogs?

With a board and train program, you leave your dog for a set period of time to stay at a dog training facility or a dog trainer’s house. Your dog’s day is spent developing new skills or addressing other behavioral problems, as well as playing and getting structured one-on-one time with their trainer. A professional dog trainer does the repetitions (generally daily, but every company is different) and then helps you learn how to maintain the skills once your dog graduates from the program. At Dog Dynamix Ohio, our board and train programs take place in our experienced dog trainer’s home, giving your dog or puppy a 24/7 immersive training experience.

How Long Does a Stay and Train last?

Depending on the behaviors you want to address, and the trainer’s program options, the length of your dog’s training while boarding will vary, but most generally last between two and five weeks. Some dog trainers will offer shorter board and train programs for learning fundamental skills, while more difficult behavioral concerns (aggression, lunging and barking at dogs or people, high levels of anxiety, separation anxiety, phobias, or otherwise) may require a longer Bootcamp stay. Our dog trainer recommends going for the longest program option you are able to do, as it gives dog trainer’s more time to proof behaviors under high level distractions, and on field trips to new places such as parks, stores, and hiking trails. Since board and train programs are a big emotional and financial investment, it’s always a good idea to get the absolute most out of the training time as possible.

While your dog is enrolled in a training camp style program, you may be required to regularly attend lessons so you can become familiar with the human side of the training equation. Other programs might choose to forego this, and the owner education piece comes in when your dog graduates from the training program. At Dog Dynamix Ohio, we provide Columbus dog owners regular video and photo updates that keep you up to speed on the program (as well as your pup’s attitude, health, and new skills) and send you a comprehensive PDF packet of training homework to study while your dog is in training. Then, you have private lessons to utilize beginning the day you pick up your dog, where you learn how to keep up with the skills at home, how to use any prescribed dog training equipment, and how to begin introducing your dog to more difficult situations/distractions using the new training skills. The owner coaching portion of a boarding and training program is critical, and you should only consider programs that put a heavy emphasis on a dog trainer training you as well as they train your dog.

How much does a boarding while training program cost?

The price of a board and train program varies depending on where you live and how long your dog will be staying. The low end for most training programs runs approximately $1000/week. This cost takes into consideration nightly boarding, regular obedience training on site and on field trips, behavioral modification if the dog is having issues, follow up lessons, prescribed dog training equipment, and the general daily care such as feeding, brushing, exercising, and rotating to potty. Dog board and train programs involve way more than just dog-sitting with some training if you’re working with a reputable dog training company (see: How to Choose the Best Dog Trainer). Reputable board and train programs should include daily exercise, enrichment, and playtime in addition to providing a safe environment around-the-clock to prevent the rehearsing of undesirable behaviors and decrease physical risk to the dog. Dog Dynamix Ohio forgoes the kennel facility experience and instead offers a more intimate program where the dogs live in the house with the dog trainer, adding extra security and comfort to dog owners who want their dogs to train and play in a quieter, home-like setting.

Choosing a boarding and training program

A high price tag does not always mean that a board and train program is being offered by licensed or morally upright professional dog trainers. Anyone can use the title “dog trainer” and offer board and train as dog training is an unregulated industry. When enrolling your dog in a board and train program with a prospective dog trainer or training facility, it is crucial that you conduct a thorough background check on them to avoid becoming one of the tragic stories of dogs being abused, stolen, or lost during a board and train program. You should do your research thoroughly by checking google reviews, visiting social media pages, and touring the training facility whenever possible prior to enrolling in a program. You’ll want to ask the dog trainer what their qualifications are, what continued education they pursue, and what methods and techniques they use to train dogs. Make sure you are comfortable with what methods and tools are used with your dog.

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a board and train facility. Does your dog stay in a kennel or dog run when not training? Or do they stay in a home environment? Is the facility or home clean and safe? Are proper cleaning products used to lower the risk of illness transmission? Are there any potential dangers present that indicate an area is not fully dog-proofed (proper containment areas, etc.)? Are dogs required to be up to date on vaccinations and on flea and tick preventatives? If board and train staff notice your dog not eating or losing weight, what do they do to combat that problem? How many dogs can enroll in a program at one time? How is barking controlled? How much human interaction will your dog get every day? What types of enrichment and exercise does your dog get each day? Will there be any playtime with other dogs (if appropriate) or with people? These questions can help you choose a program that you are most comfortable with, and prevent an overly stressful experience for your dog.

Board and Train Programs: Benefits and Disadvantages

Convenience is a major benefit of a board-and-train program. It takes a lot of work to train a dog. Your schedule might not provide much time for training because of your work schedule, kids activities, travel plans, or other obligations. Winter time means low temperatures and unpredictable weather. A dog trainer is being paid to train your dog every day, wind, snow, or shine. For busy folks who simply do not have the time to get in the necessary training repetitions required to teach new skills, a board and train option can be an excellent option.

Your dog will receive a lot of repetitions for training skills with a daily training schedule, and those repetitions will be performed by a dog trainer who has better timing, a deeper understanding of dog behavior, and sharper training skills than you do. Faster learning results from quality, repetitive practice. A good board and train program will also provide an atmosphere where your dog won’t engage in naughty habits that can impede their training, such as pulling on the leash in between training sessions, jumping on the counter, getting into the trash, or practicing aggressive behavior towards other dogs or people. Dog trainers also tend to have more access to other dogs, cats, dog-savvy people, and training locations than the average pet owner does, meaning skills can be generalized easier.

Board and train programs change the dog’s environment, which can make learning easier. There are instances when a dog’s environment at home naturally causes undesirable behaviors, and it can be challenging to alter the environment to stop the behavior from happening. For example, it is difficult to get a dog to stop counter surfing, jumping on guests at your front door, or from chasing joggers down the fence line if those triggers exist in your daily environment. At a dog training facility, or trainer’s home, the environment is easier to control and dog trainers can introduce those types of distractions strategically without them being practiced during “downtime” outside of training. Environmental management and prevention of poor behaviors are essential for accelerating learning! Many dog owners believe training needs to take place where the dog is currently, and that’s simply not true; your dog trainer will provide detailed home follow-up instructions and upkeep to help you navigate that more challenging environment once the skills are solid.

Stress can be a disadvantage of a board-and-train program. Some dogs find traveling away from home to be distressing, as they don’t have a trusting relationship with the new folks running the show and the routine is different. A dog needs time to adjust to a new environment and routine which generally takes at least a few days; tense or fearful dogs may take longer. The acclimatization period, often known as the transition time, is important. Learning is not facilitated by stress. So, sending a dog to board and train means that, at minimum, the first few days are focused on acclimating a dog to their new environment and building a relationship with the trainer. This is why we do not offer advantaged obedience programs shorter than three weeks long at Dog Dynamix Ohio — we want dogs to have a few days to settle in before the training begins.

Puppy Boarding and Training

While a board and train can be very helpful for socialization with appropriate dogs, people, and places the average dog owner doesn’t have access to (or time to access), a Board and Train Program for a puppy isn’t generally that helpful for potty training. Housetraining is probably one of the most exhausting parts of raising a puppy. And while you might feel that passing this task off to a trainer at a board and train program sounds like a good idea, it doesn’t tend to help much. Potty training is incredibly location-specific for young puppies. They may be housetrained quickly at a board and train where the routine and the potty spot are consistent, but once they return home, they have to relearn where they are supposed to go potty. It might not be starting at square one due to physical maturity that takes place during a training program, but it certainly won’t be done.

Board and Train for Aggressive Dogs

A Reactive Dog Bootcamp will benefit a dog struggling with leash reactivity, as your trainer will be able to quickly teach the reactive dog obedience skills (leash walking, coming when called, bed stay) and then expose the dog to a lot of new dogs, people, places, and things to help move the process forward as a faster pace than they would be able to with an inexperienced dog handler. Then, just like a regular board and train, the dog trainer will coach the dog owner how to be successful at home. Reactivity can take a long time to fully resolve, so expect to do significant follow up training after your dog returns home.

Aggressive behavior can either exacerbated or suppressed in an unfamiliar environment with a new handler (the dog trainer). A dog may shut down in the new environment, or they may exhibit more aggressive behavior than usual. Either way, the aggressive dog needs time to unwind and settle in as stress makes it difficult to practice counter conditioning methods (which is used to help change a negative emotional response to a positive one) and to teach critical obedience skills (leash walking, recall, bed-stay, wait at the door, leave it, all under heavy distraction), so longer program durations will be required. It is important to note that aggression is always managed, and never fully cured. While a Bootcamp training program designed for addressing aggression is always going to make a dog easier to live with — assuming the dog trainer is knowledgable, and the dog owner is committed to following the training protocols — they are not going to make a truly aggressive dog social with former triggers.

Are Board and Train Programs Worth It?

Sending your dog off to boarding and training near you is worth it if your expectations match what’s actually possible in a short time period. While three weeks seems like a long time to be away from your dog, it is a very short time in the grand scheme of things. Dog trainers are not magicians and a board and train program still requires intensive owner commitment, daily repetitions to upkeep behavior, and a long-term dog training plan. Behavior change does not happen overnight. It doesn’t happen in one or two weeks. Training your dog is a lifelong commitment. A board and train program can certainly jumpstart your dog’s learning and get where you want to be faster than group classes or private lessons, but you need to be committed to the training program for the long haul.

Overall, board and train programs for dogs can be a good option for those dog owners who are committed to continuing training for long after the program ends. Because a board and train can be a major financial investment, it’s important to make sure you’re choosing the right program to meet the needs of you and your dog. If you live in the Columbus, Ohio area, reach out and see what we can offer for you and your dog.

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A cat and a dog sit on a place cot in the Dog Dynamix lobby.

5 Tips For Finding Quality Dog Training Near You

January 18, 2023by Shaina

Finding quality dog training nearby can be a challenge. With this guide, you’ll have the tools you need to find the perfect dog training program for you and your dog. Learn 5 easy tips so you can get started with professional dog training in your local area today!

Research Online For Local Dog Training Courses.

The first step in finding a quality dog training course near you is to research online. There are many websites and directories online that list local dog trainers and classes, and every trainer has a social media page for their business these days. Take the time to read reviews from other dog owners and find detailed information about the courses taught by each trainer. This way, you can easily compare programs and choose one that best meets your needs. Things to look out for:

How many dogs are assigned per dog trainer?

Does the trainer accept dogs and puppies of all ages, breeds, and sizes?

What opportunities are there for advancing in training? Does the program have significant follow up opportunities post-graduation?

What is the dog trainers professional experience? Did they mentor under any other dog trainers, and do they regularly attend dog training workshops?

Will the dog trainer send you homework for when the training program ends?

There are all important considerations, and can greatly affect your dogs’ training success rate.

Ask Your Friends, Family and Veterinarian for Advice & Referrals.

Don’t forget to ask your friends, family members and veterinarian for advice and referrals. They may have personal experience with a quality dog training program and can let you know what worked well for them. Pay attention to THEIR dogs’ behavior! If their dog is a bit of an out of control wild-child, maybe don’t press them for a recommendation… but you should absolutely ask dog owners that have calm, polite dogs out in the world and see how they trained their dog! Dog Dynamix Ohio gets a lot of calls that start out as, “I was out and about in town, and I saw this REALLY WELL TRAINED DOG, I just had to ask where they got their dog trained…”. When you reach out to people, be sure to ask about the cost of the program, what type of techniques were taught, and whether or not the instructor was someone they’d recommend or return to. This will help you quickly narrow down your options so you can select the best training program for your pup.

Determine What Type of Program Is Right for You and Your Dog

Before you start your search for the perfect dog training course, it’s important to understand what type of instruction will best serve your pup and your unique needs. Are you looking for an overnight board and train program, an in-person group training class, private lessons, or an online training course? If you have basic training skills mastered but are looking to really push it to the next level, a lot of high quality dog training instructors have content available online for a fee. You can also look into in-person dog training seminars/workshops from highly respected dog trainers traveling through your town. There are so many options these days, so do your research before settling on a dog trainer near you.

Read Reviews Before Putting Down a Deposit.

Knowing the quality of instruction you will be receiving before committing to a dog training program is key. Take some time to read online reviews and talk to people who have had success with any instructors or trainers you are considering. Many cities and towns also have Facebook groups dedicated to pet owners looking for advice on local businesses, including trainers, so don’t forget to take advantage of those resources. Ask around, and see what names regularly get brought up in your community, and why. You should always dig for good reviews and bad reviews, and decide which ones are credible, honest reviews from clients, which are from people who just seem unhappy because of unrealistic expectations, and which reviews might be fake. Just like shopping on Amazon, we need to look at things with a magnifying glass!

Inquire About a Trainer’s Qualifications and Experience.

Before enrolling in any dog training classes or courses, find out what type of qualifications the trainer holds. Is he/she certified by any industry organizations? Is the trainer experienced and educated in modern dog training methods? Have they worked with or under other experienced dog trainers, and if so, for how long? Do they compete in any dog sports? How is their reputation in the local dog training community? Ask as many questions as you need to be sure you’re investing your money in a qualified and ethical trainer that you can trust.

We hope this guide helps you find the best dog trainer near you. With so many options, the choices can seem overwhelming… but following these quick tips should get your pooch on their way to better behavior fast! If you are local to Columbus, Dayton, or Cincinnati, contact us for more information on how we can help you train your dog.

Finn, a daschund puppy from Columbus, Ohio, in training.

Is Hiring a Local Dog Trainer Important?

January 7, 2023December 5, 2024by Shaina

The reality is, unlesss you have a real knack for animal behavior and leash handling, most dog owners will need the help of a professional dog trainer in order for them to make fantastic household pets. When the doorbell rings, most dogs will bark. Other dogs will pull hard on leash to visit the neighbor or practice doggy parkour in order to harass the household cat. While barking, jumping, digging, pulling on leash, and chasing prey items are normal canine behaviors, it can be really helpful to get a professional dog trainer on your team to help you figure out how to best live with your dog and avoid problematic behaviors from occurring.

Dog trainers can be extremely beneficial for dogs of all ages who may have a variety of problems, such as fear, aggression, and difficulties learning advanced (or even simple) obedience commands. If you want your dog to join you on off leash adventures, it is critical they are reliably trained under heavy distraction. Dog friendly patios can be a blast… unless your dog spends the entire time barking and trying to visit other patrons. Hiring a dog trainer doesn’t make an owner a failure, nor is it a sign that there is something wrong with the dog. Hiring a dog trainer should be a proactive move made to help better your relationship with your dog.

Finding the pet expert who is best for you is the first step in strengthening the link between owner and dog. Check out this guide on how to get in touch with the best dog trainer for you and your dog.

Dog training can begin at any age. Beginning with a trainer as soon as a new puppy comes home can start them off right; it’s a lot of work raising a puppy, and there is a lot of conflicting information out there! Hiring a puppy trainer can help you learn how to properly socialize your new friend, create an appropriate potty training schedule, and help you deal with pesky, but normal, puppy behaviors such as jumping, biting, and barking in the crate.

Get the tools you need to practice at home. Consider the tools you’ll need to reinforce excellent behavior at home after consulting with a trainer. Learning simple training skills like “sit,” “down,” and “leave it” can be done at home with minimal effort, with just a leash and some yummy dog training treats. You should have a short leash as well as a long leash for practicing coming when called out and about, and a properly fitted collar that won’t slip over your dogs head. A dog kennel helps puppies learn to respect other people’s property and facilitates housebreaking. We love Ruffland Kennels and KBC Kennels for solid crates that will last you years.

While working with a trainer, you can get into the habit of incorporating training exercises into your daily routine with your dog or puppy. Each walk should be spent reinforcing excellent leash manners, rather than teaching your dog to drag you around the park. You can practice leave it during dinner, and work on your bed stay at night while watching TV (while also paying attention to your pup, of course). Every time you let your dog outside to go to the bathroom is a time to practice “wait at the door”. Being consistent and keeping your dogs brain active goes a long way in future good behavior!

In the end, hiring a reputable dog training professional and devoting time to training will help your dog succeed and open up your world to more adventures together. We would love to discuss training options with you if you are local to Northeast Ohio. Our dog trainers specialize in Boarding and Training programs for dogs and puppies.