Statement of Purpose

   We offer a holistic approach to teaching dogs, using positive reinforcement
   techniques without the use of choke or prong collars. We incorporate agility
   equipment in the training classes to promote a dogs body awareness, improve
   balance, increase coordination, self confidence, and self-control. We believe
   that training should be fun which enhances learning for both the dog and owner.

   Training with a clicker is more of a form of communication than a method
   of training. There is generally no physical contact between the person and
   the dog. As a matter of fact, most dogs are trained off-leash in a group class
   to lessen the likelyhood of clients collar training. The sound of the clicker is what
   marks the behavior we are looking for.

   A major difference between traditional dog training and clicker training is
   that the dog is encouraged to use his mind and creativity through an exercise
   called "free shaping." Free shaping encourages mental and physical flexibility
   and gives the dog courage to try something on its own. We use free shaping
   exercises with older dogs, suspicious dogs  and "cross-over" dogs with a long
   history of correction-based training.

  If you have an effective human/canine communication skill that allows an
  animal to think, problem solve, and to be creative without fear of punishment
  for making mistakes, the training possibilities are almost endless...police dog
  training, agility, obedience, assistance dog training, trick training, tracking,
  gun dog, the list goes on. The only limitations posed, are on the teaching ability
  of the person training and the innate ability of the breed you are working with.

  We are dedicated to teaching the owners of dogs how to effectively
  communicate with their canine companions by using positive
  reinforcement techniques (clicker training). We believe that training
  should be fun for both dogs and their owners by creating an enriched
  relationship between them. While there are times when the use of
  aversives may be necessary, we do not believe that they are appropriate
  while teaching new behaviors.

 WHAT CLICKER TRAINING? "Clicker Training" is a term
  commonly used to describe a technique for training animals. It is based
  on a scientific training method called operant conditioning, it has been
  used successfully in almost every area of dog training including; obedience,
  agility, police dog training, service dog training, tracking, gun dog training,
  and trick training, just to name a few. Clicker training is gentle and highly
  motivational. It uses positive reinforcement techniques, making it partic-
  ularly beneficial for shy or timid dogs.
      A Clicker is a small plastic box with a metal strip that makes a sharp, clicking
  sound when pushed and released. The sound that the clicker makes is very
  unique and doesn't get lost in the constant chatter of words we are
  constantly throwing at our dogs. Itis faster and more precise than using the
  word "YES." Paired with something the animal finds very reinforcing like
  treats, toys, or verbal encouragement, the clicker can become a powerful
  tool for achieving wanted behavior.

• an option for owners who prefer not to attend group classes
• owners who are short of time and would like accelerated
  training sessions
• dogs who reactive or shy with other dogs or people
• training customized to meet your specific needs or goals