Statement of Purpose

    We offer a holistic approach to teaching dogs, using positive reinforcement
   techniques without the use of choke or prong collars. 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 (like pulling, pushing, jerking)
   to the dog from it's handler during the training.

    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. 

     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. It is 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.