Vermont Dog Trainer Show – Details, episodes & analysis

Here is my list of the top 5 commands for dogs based on my experience with the dogs I have worked with

1.   #5.            Sit – This is the easiest to teach and 99% of my clients have already taught it
2.   #4.            Heel – Always good to teach your dog how to walk on leash
3.   #3.            Come – Everyone wants recall with their dogs
4.   #2.            Leave it – Prevents dogs from picking things up
5.   #1.            Drop it/Out – Used not only for letting go of foreign objects but also for play

Question:  When I take my dog for a walk, her nose is constantly on the ground and when she sees another dog she will start yipping. What can I do?

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This is always a popular question for dog trainer but I think my answer might surprise you. 

Takeaways:

1. When is it okay
2. When is it not okay
3. Creating structure around it

Dog Fact of the week:     10 million pets are missing worldwide and less than 20% of them will be reunited with their owners.

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It's one thing if your dog has certain skills, it's another if you know how to increase those skills into something else. Here is a great example on how you can do this with your dog. 

Takeaways:

1. Pick a skill that you want to increase
2. Create a pattern that’s easy to follow
3. Once the dog understands the pattern, add another step

Question: I’ve read that rawhides aren’t good for dogs, should I stop giving one to my dog?

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Canine Fusion Workshop

Patterns can emerge in different ways and once we are aware of patterns, it can lead to both positive and negative behaviors. Here is my take on how you can overcome those pesky negative patterns.

Takeaways:

1. Can be positive or negative
2. How to read unwanted patterns
3. Pinpoint where to get ahead of the mistake

Question: My dogs are constantly scanning the ground and our environment during our walks, is there a way to fix this?

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Canine Fusion Workshop

Prey drive is instinctual for dogs and in some cases it's quite prominent. 

Takeaways:

1. What is it?
2. How do we handle it?
3. Communication is key?

Question: How can I teach my dog to be calm when he’s always excited?

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Canine Fusion Workshop

Dealing with a fearful dog can be difficult, but we have to be VERY aware of our "touch" both on leash and off leash in the house. 

Takeaways:

1. Overpowering
2. Being too physical with the leash and collar
3. Taking the time to teach what we want – slowing down.

Question: How do I redirect my dog if he starts lunging at a dog he sees?

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Canine Fusion Workshop

Fear can debilitate dogs and it's not a pretty site. But we have a chance to help them through it and you might be surprised how.

Takeaways:

1. What does fear look like in dogs?
2. We nurture fear too much
3. We have to give direction during times of stress

Question: My dog just doesn’t seem to calm down in the house. We can go for a 3 mile walk and she still paces around, what should I do?

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Canine Fusion Workshop

Part 2 leads us into your guests coming into play and what their role should be, you might find my opinion very interesting.

Takeaways:

1. Your guests & your dogs
2. Instruct both guests and dog what to do
3. Make it clear and concise – use a note outside the door if needed

Listener Question:  What do you feel is the biggest mistake dog owners make with their dogs?

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Canine Fusion Workshop

In this episode we dive into the essential topic of "Doorway Diplomacy: Mastering Front Door Behaviors." The front door can be a common source of chaos and excitement for our canine companions, but with the right techniques, you can transform it into a zone of calm and control. 

1. Controlling the Space Around the Front Door:

   • We start by exploring effective methods to establish control over the area around the front door. By setting clear boundaries you can teach your dog to exhibit polite behaviors when guests arrive or when you need to leave the house. Learn how to communicate expectations and prevent door-related issues from occurring.

2. Practicing When You Don't Need It:

   • Prevention is better than cure, and this principle holds true when it comes to front door behaviors. We emphasize the importance of proactive training by practicing controlled door interactions even when there are no visitors. This preempts potential problems and helps your furry friend become comfortable with the desired behaviors before real-life scenarios arise.

3. What It Looks Like When Done Correctly:

   • Lastly, we paint a vivid picture of the ideal front door behavior. Discover the beauty of a dog who sits calmly, waits patiently, and refrains from jumping or rushing to the door. We illustrate the positive results that consistent and compassionate training can achieve, leading to a more peaceful and enjoyable entrance and exit experiences for both you and your dog.

Whether your dog tends to bark, jump, or get overly excited at the front door, this episode equips you with the necessary tools to transform these interactions into smooth and controlled experiences. Join us as we unlock the secrets of "Doorway Diplomacy" and enhance your dog's behavior at the front door, fostering a more harmonious home environment for everyone involved. 

Listener Question: We have a new puppy and people want to pet her but she gets excited and jumps on them. What can I do to teach her to stop jumping?

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In this engaging episode we delve into the intriguing world of "Situational Aggression" and we will explore the following key points:

1. What is Aggression?

   • We begin by unraveling this term and how it comes about, and define it.

2. Understanding Situational Aggression:

   • Our spotlight then falls on the specific concept of "Situational Aggression" – a fascinating aspect of canine behavior. We explore how certain situations or triggers can elicit aggressive responses in dogs.

3. How to Handle Situational Aggression:

   • First of all, if you are dealing with this I would seek out professional help. Keep things positive and work on what you want from your dog, and not what you don't want.

Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or a first-time puppy parent, this episode offers invaluable tools to create a happier and healthier bond with your four-legged friend. So, tune in and let's make your dog's world a more positive and confident one!

Listener Question: I’ve heard it’s better for dogs to meet off leash than on leash, is that true?

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