Philosophy
What is Positive Reinforcement?
Positive reinforcement is a modern training method that has been scientifically proven to be effective and long-lasting - all without the need for painful equipment.
Positive reinforcement is a science-backed training method that works by catering to how dogs naturally learn. This method works by rewarding behaviors we love while ignoring behaviors that are unsafe or undesired. When we teach our dogs what they should do in certain situations instead of punishing what we don’t like, we achieve dependable behaviors. Rewarding behaviors includes the use of tasty food, praise, physical touch, and access to things our dogs desire.
Training with positive reinforcement helps our dogs to problem solve, gain confidence, and build trust with their guardians. Positive reinforcement training has been shown to drastically improve dog behavioral issues such as fears, reactivity, anxiety, and improve overall confidence without the negative side effects of other training methods.
Dogs are problem-solvers by nature, and positive reinforcement training appeals to the way dogs instinctually learn - with food, play, affection, and games! We strive to teach dogs and their humans with humane and fun methods!
Positive Reinforcement Dog Training: The Science Behind Operant Conditioning
Why Train Your Dog?
Training not only teaches our four-legged companions how to become polite and safe citizens, but also how to build trust, confidence, and communication as a team.
Learning how to train your dog isn’t all about commands. While obedience is important for our dog’s education and safety, a large part of their learning comes from what and how they experience the world. Training gives us a direct line of communication dogs where we can teach them to have good manners and how to handle new situations. Positive reinforcement allows us to work with our dogs in a constructive and pain-free manner that is catered to their learning style.
Positive reinforcement training can be a huge help for those looking to pursue canine sports, competitive obedience, therapy work, and any other activities you and your dog have planned!
How it Works:
Many training plans are a “one-size-fits-all” deal. While the copy-and-paste plans works for some, learning can be slow, and is by no means the best method. In our experience, often very little is done to address the unique needs of the individual dog and their family.
Each training plan is custom-made to fit you and your dog’s needs by offering a structured curriculum with time built into each session to work towards your personal goals. Not only am I assuring that your wants will be addressed, but that the training plan I build can help your dog to thrive as the unique individual they are!
The created plans will begin at whatever difficulty is best for each individual with exercises and games that will benefit each dog depending on their personalities, preferences, and your lifestyle.
FAQs
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Congratulations on your new puppy!
Bringing home a puppy is a wonderful experience, but can often be overwhelming. When bringing a puppy home, socialization and early training are highly important; both will help set your pup up to be a well-rounded adult dog!
Early training will help give your puppy boundaries in the home, and tools for how to handle the outside world. Training a puppy is also a great way for the family to be introduced to how dogs learn and gives all members an active roll in raising the newest addition to the home.
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No dog is too old to learn new tricks!
While age can play a factor in how in learning, it is only one of many that dogs of all ages are affected by. Working at your dog’s pace, tailoring plans to their needs, and consistency are great ways to see progress.
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Training is not only about teaching your dog “Sit” and “Down”.
In reality, we are teaching our dogs how we would like them to behave in certain situations, often for their safety or for the safety of others. Training can be anything from “Stay”, to crate training, to emotional regulation.
In some cases, your trainer may recommend consulting your veterinarian or an animal behavioralist for additional support - training is all about working as a team for your dog.
If you’d like to know what kind of training is best for you, or if you have any questions, please visit our Contact page or click the button below.
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The amount of time training may take is dependent on several factors, including:
What are your training goals?
What is your dog’s learning history?
How long has the behavior been practiced?
Why did the problem behavior begin?
Overall, progress will be seen if training is at a pace and difficulty that suits your individual dog and training is consistent.
I train by creating customized lessons to ensure we are working towards your goals while taking your dog’s needs into account. These lessons are scheduled in accordance to your schedule to ensure flexibility and consistency.
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Behavior modification is training that targets a specific behavior or response to specific stimuli. Some of these behaviors include but are not limited to: fear, reactivity, anxiety, barking, jumping, counter-surfing, and destructive behaviors.
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Of course! The goal of Kindred Spirit Dog Training is to provide custom support for all clients. Sending updates or asking questions is all part of the process for ensuring a training plan is effective and achievable.
