What Training is Right for My Dog?

SUNDAY TRAINING TIP:

What training is right for my dog?? Does my dog need training??

I wish to address both of these two topics briefly. Lets talk about the first one. What training is right for my dog.

This is an interesting topic because there is no one way to train a dog. Obviously we hope people looking to train their dogs come to us at Maligator Kennels, but in the event you're looking for a trainer, do not be afraid to interview them a little. Find out if they like coercive training vs. compulsion. Do they do clicker training. Do they do treat, toy or praise reward.

If any trainer does only one or two methods, this is a sign of an uneducated and closed-minded trainer, and this is not something you want. A trainer who is worth your time, realizes the importance or applying whatever method is needed to train your particular dog. Each dog is different, and any trainer who is completely against coercive training and will never use it, or doesn't implore any form of corrective collar, EVER, because they are EVIL, is not a quality trainer.

Two examples:

Take Chance, the Corgi owned by Kindra Whiting Skolmoski and Justin. He is a dog, who is highly trainable, highly submissive and eager to please. It is highly likely, if they continue to with his training, Chance will never be a dog who needs compulsive training (do it cause I said or else a correction) training. Justin also implements "clicker" training with Chance, which I don't personally use, but I believe it in and know it works. It's another form of marking desired behavior.

Now take my Malinois, Enzo. Enzo is eager to do anything you ask him for a treat or a toy. He loves to play, he loves to run and is highly trainable. However, Enzo is not a submissive dog, and he is willing to challenge my authority, about every command. This is what I built in him psychologically. So as he grows, he will need a form of coercive (do it because if you do you get a reward) and compulsion, because he is willing to basically tell me "no, I don't feel like it."

It's important to remember your dog is it's own individual personality. We at Maligator Kennels, Russ, Kenna and Whitney, believe in all methods of training, if used with the proper training, knowledge and respect for you and the dog. As an owner and handler, be open to suggestions. If you have heard horror stories about certain collars, or certain ways of training, feel free to ask us about them. Any form of training or equipment in the wrong hands, can be dangerous. Understand we will NEVER do anything here with the intention of hurting your dog intentionally.

If you have something you have personally seen work with your dog, tell the trainers about it, and as long as it is humane, we will help you implement it.

Does my dog need training?

If you are of the mindset your dog is fine, he/she doesn't need any training. My dog gets a long with everyone and everything. I will put in plainly. You are unwise. ALL dogs need training. All dogs need socialization. Even if your dog knows how to sit, and has been sitting for 450 years. Your dog would benefit from a basic sit, down or stay class. The main thing that holds your house up, from sinking into the ground is what? The foundation. Without a strong, well-maintained foundation, your house (training) will sink.

It's okay to do some basics with your dog, even if they are a master at something. NEVER STOP socializing your dog with other dogs and people. This should be a continuous thing for their entire life.

I have spent years training dogs, studying and testing on dog training and psychology. The moment I stop believing, that a first time dog owner/trainer can offer me a tip on how to train better, I'm no longer effective.

The trainers at Maligator Kennels are not always right. We make mistakes, and we mess up. But you can be sure, we have your best interest in mind, and we will work with you as long as you permit us. We will only offer you top quality care and training.

I hope these two tips help you out. Hopefully its a good Sunday read.

Russ

Maligator Kennels.