Can My Dog Learn New Tricks?

EDUCATION FOR YOU AND YOUR DOG


Well mannered dogs are a pleasure to be with and can be integrated more fully in your life -- they are more welcome at home, on the trail and in the community!

We teach positive reinforcement methods that work and that enrich relationships between humans and their canine companions.

Every dog wants to know what works and is safe and consistent in their world. Sometimes they come to us with difficulties, sometimes we've overlookd a behaviour that we no longer find adorable or our lives change and that behaviour no longer fits (think of a farm dog moving to a small, city lot), sometimes we just don't know how to deal with their vigour and energy, and sometimes our lives create change that you and your dog need to overcome. Like humans, dogs react to their environment and the people around them and, just like you, there are simple ways that can help to live in harmony. Let Paw In Hand help you find the methods that keep your relationship at its best potential.

Training Classes:

Using positive reinforcement, motivation and benevolent leadership, we will help you establish a solid foundation for a great relationship of socialized good behaviour and response with your dog.


PUPPY'S FIRST STEPS

  • Start your puppy on a lifetime of great behaviour and social skills
  • Optimize learning before the critical socialization period ends
  • Problem prevention - teach lasting good habits
  • 4 unique sessions - so puppies can start after thier first shots in our rotating curriculum.

 

* Link to American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior statement. "This statement hopes to increase awareness of the need for socialization in puppies and raise the issue of how vaccination protocols effect the socialization process in puppy classes." 

http://www.avsabonline.org/avsabonline/images/stories/Position_Statements/puppy%20socialization.pdf

 

STEP ONE - DOG TRAINING FOUNDATIONS

  • Establish essential fundamentals of leadership
  • Impulse control exercises
  • Teach your dog Attention, Recall, Settle, Loose Leash Walking, Polite Greetings and much more.


When: New course starts every month
Where: Squamish Valley Rod & Gun Club http://www.svrgc.org/map.html
Cost: $100 plus hst = $112   4wk classes 
Register: Contact Maren at 604-892-4278 or e-mail maren(at)pawinhand(dot)com.

See Paw In Hand DOG BLOG for details:

http://pawinhand.blogspot.com/p/step-one.html
 

Using Positive Reinforcement, motivation and benevolent leadership.
Covers: The games we teach are foundation exercises that can be built upon by introducing distractions, distance and duration. Attention - eye contact with you. Look at that - for dogs that are stimulated by new things in their environment. Go to your spot - mat work to learn to stay and leave it. Response to name - whiplash headturn even at a distance or with a distraction. Target cue - focusing exercise for worried dogs or to encourage an appropriate outlet for energies. Reorientating behaviours - turning towards you before rushing off on their own...and more...
Result: Your dog will be eager to follow your benevolent lead whether at home or out on the trails.

Prerequisite: Enthusiastic owners and their happy go lucky dogs ... those in need of some training but not with any serious behaviour issues. If you are unsure contact us to discuss your dog and assess your needs. Age: 5 months and up
*Private sessions available to those working towards a class environment.
What to bring: Your dog (wearing a plain buckle collar), You (wearing comfortable outdoor clothing), 6 foot plain leash, walking harness if you use one, scrumptious small soft dog treats that your dog will jump hoops for, special toy that your dog goes googly eyed over, and a soft mat.
* Please leave your dog in your vehicle when you first arrive (with leash attached if it is safe to do so). Bring your gear (treats, toys and mat) to the meeting area

   
PRIVATE COACHING AND TRAINING

Old dogs can learn new tricks – and new good habits! Puppies, unruly adolescents and dogs of all types can benefit from individualized private training sessions. Learn positive, dog friendly, relationship based training methods that are not only fun but also work! Scheduled in the convenience of your home for the initial meeting and then at locations specific to your training goals for followup sessions.

Initial meeting $120
followup session $60/hr
Package of three followup sessions $50

 


BEHAVIOUR COUNSELLING

Owners who experience behaviour problems with their dogs are leading an unnecessarily complicated life. Most behaviour problems can be solved! We use positive, scientific based methods – no harsh treatment, no shocks, no pain, and no choke chains. We consult with you in your home, consider the dogs history and behaviour and then together we set goals and plan a training, management and behaviour modification program to help you have a harmonious life with your dog.

Initial Consultation $150 (includes phone interview, 2 hour home visit, follow up phone calls, e-mail handouts)   

 

Bring the right dog into your life - adoption and new puppy counseling

Thinking of getting a dog? We can help you choose the right one for you! A lifelong relationship can go smoothly or can be fraught with challenges if you and your family's lifestyle are not considered when bringing a dog into your home. Through careful assessment of different breed and personality types, and a little personal honesty (do you really have time to exercise your dog while working full time and juggling schedules of a busy family?), you can learn which questions to ask breeders or adoption agencies. While it is very noble and, unfortunately necessary, it is just as important to make an informed decision when you rescue a dog.