Keep It Simple Dog Training

09/04/2024

Photo credit: https://www.facebook.com/ChasetheMagicPhotog

Well that really took on a life of it's own. I now have three RECALL WORKSHOPS filled! One this Saturday and two on Sunday October 20th.

If there is still interest, as I know some people couldn't make either of those days, I will open up another one on Sunday September 15th @ 11:30am.

Please email [email protected].

Why do we want an amazing recall?
-keeps dogs safe
-keeps owners happy
-keeps other dogs safe
-prevents conflicts
A non-existent recall is frustrating for sure but we have to remember that our dogs are just being dogs. Not coming back when called is not an abnormal behavior. The things that lead to their not returning are in fact very normal dog behaviors . . .sniffing, friendly, chase, etc.
These workshops will boost your dog’s ability to disengage from the environment and increase their value for being close to you.

09/04/2024

‼️Position Statement on the Use of Punishment and Aversive Techniques and Tools in Canine Behaviour Training ‼️

In light of recent discussions on social media, we feel it is necessary to once again clarify our position and that of all our members at International Canine Behaviourists. As a community of professionals dedicated to the well-being of dogs, we unequivocally reject the use of punishment and aversive techniques in canine behaviour training. This includes, but is not limited to, the use of tools such as shock collars, prong collars, choke chains, and any methods that inflict pain, fear, or discomfort on dogs.

The overwhelming consensus among scientific professionals is that punishment-based methods are not only ineffective but also very damaging to the well-being of ALL dogs. Numerous studies have demonstrated that these techniques can cause significant psychological and physical harm to dogs, leading to increased aggression, anxiety, and other behavioural issues. Furthermore, they fail to address the root causes of undesirable behaviour and often exacerbate the problems they aim to correct. There is never an individual, breed or behaviour struggle that warrants punishment and moreover, we feel it is morally wrong and shows a lack of empathy and skill in training and behaviour modification.

We stand firmly behind the principles of positive reinforcement and force-free training methods, which are supported by the latest research in animal behaviour science. These approaches not only foster a strong, trusting bond between dogs and their handlers but also ensure that training is both effective and humane. We believe that all dogs deserve to be treated with respect and compassion, and that their well-being should always be the top priority in any training programme.

All members of International Canine Behaviourists adhere to a strict code of conduct, which you can read here. This code ensures that our practices are aligned with the highest ethical standards and that we are committed to promoting the welfare of dogs through evidence-based, force-free and fear-free training methods.

We urge all dog owners, trainers, and behaviourists to reject punitive methods and to embrace the wealth of positive, science-backed alternatives available. Together, we can create a world where every dog is trained with the kindness, understanding, and respect they deserve.

International Canine Behaviourists

09/03/2024

Sign up for the November 9th Sensory Room at the training building😊

September Sensory Rooms are fully booked, but there are plenty of spots left in October and November!

We will be on many different locations in NS and PEI is on the schedule again too!

Reach out by email to book your spot!

09/03/2024

Just wanted to make a quick post to apologize for being slow to respond to emails etc this past week. This very special boy has been hospitalized and just made it home yesterday so my life has been a little chaotic to say the least. Not promising it is going to get better immediately, but I will try my best to reply to everyone in a timely manner going forward. Thanks for your patience and understanding.🙂

09/02/2024

Not sure if I should be happy that not many people have signed up for this workshop meaning everyone's dogs have amazing recalls, or if I should be worried that not many people consider this an essential skill every dog needs to have?

Is this the face you want to see running back after you call your dog? Well maybe not quite this crazy but . . .

Saturday September 7 or Sunday October 20 - 11:30 AM-1:00PM – RECALL WORKSHOP with Mel - $65.00 EACH (weather permitting these classes will take place outside in a fenced in field)
Why do we want an amazing recall?
-keeps dogs safe
-keeps owners happy
-keeps other dogs safe
-prevents conflicts
A non-existent recall is frustrating for sure but we have to remember that our dogs are just being dogs. Not coming back when called is not an abnormal behavior. The things that lead to their not returning are in fact very normal dog behaviors . . .sniffing, friendly, chase, etc.
These workshops will boost your dog’s ability to disengage from the environment and increase their value for being close to you.

09/02/2024

With the slightly cooler weather upon us, these play groups will be very enjoyable for the pups. 45-60 minutes in a safely fenced-in area outside with other pups their age.

Free play will be mixed in with some relationship building games with their handlers.

For pups 8-16 weeks old. Maximum six puppies per group. You do not have to be a student of KEEP IT SIMPLE DOG TRAINING to attend.

Preregistration is required. Please email [email protected] for more information or to register.

08/30/2024

Just teaching your dog to "BE". Not asking anything of them. Letting them take in the wide world of experiences in their own way. 100% agree with this post.

08/29/2024

There are still spaces available in this drop-in style class. You do not have to attend every class. A great way to keep working with your dog and have it fit into your schedule.

VARIOUS WEEKENDS IN SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER @ 9:00AM (Saturday September 7, Sunday September 8, Sunday September 15, Sunday October 6, Saturday October 12, Sunday October 13, Saturday October 19, Sunday October 20) – OUTDOOR CIRCUIT WALKS with Mel – 8 WEEKS - $225.00/eight-week session or $33.00 each class
PREREQUISITE: Must have attended at least one foundations class with KEEP IT SIMPLE DOG TRAINING (Puppy Kindergarten, Adolescence, Family Pet)
Dogs of all ages who have attended at least one class with us in the past.
First of all, my apologies for the seemingly random class schedule, but my weekends are a little crazy at this time with my own dogs’ activities.
This class will consist of several stations or circuits set up outside at the training building property where you and your dog will move from station to station and engage in different activities at each station all while their classmates are doing the same thing. What a great way to work on disengagement from environmental distractions in a safe environment all while engaging in games and activities you and your dog have already learned in classes.

08/29/2024

Sadly there wasn't interest for this class so it is cancelled🥺

08/29/2024

Still hoping for a few more "oldies" to sign up for this class so we can hold it in October.

Sunday October 6, Saturday October 12, Sunday October 13, Saturday October 19 – 11:30AM-12:15PM – OLDIES BUT GOODIES (formerly Seniors Rock) with Mel – 4 weeks -$130.00
This class is open to all dogs over the age of 8 years who have some foundation training whether with us, with another trainer or on your own. This age group of dogs is near and dear to my heart. We tend to pay attention to our younger dog’s mental and physical development but once our dogs are seniors, we just let them be. All dogs, especially seniors, should have the opportunity to be active, both physically and mentally. Just attending a class and allowing them to be “social” is an amazing boost for them. In this class we will play training games, do some fitness work, play some puzzles and just enjoy the time with our seniors . . . it seems there is never enough time

08/29/2024

This very popular class still has a couple of open spaces 🤯

This class takes place in downtown Wolfville each week.
*Environmental enrichment
* Mental Stimulation
* Physical exercise
*Confidence boosting
In this class you will gain tools to help your dog focus or redirect their attention while in a distracting environment. Help your dog interpret social cues in a low-pressure format while walking with other dogs.

08/29/2024

Is this the face you want to see running back after you call your dog? Well maybe not quite this crazy but . . .

Saturday September 7 or Sunday October 20 - 11:30 AM-1:00PM – RECALL WORKSHOP with Mel - $65.00 EACH (weather permitting these classes will take place outside in a fenced in field)
Why do we want an amazing recall?
-keeps dogs safe
-keeps owners happy
-keeps other dogs safe
-prevents conflicts
A non-existent recall is frustrating for sure but we have to remember that our dogs are just being dogs. Not coming back when called is not an abnormal behavior. The things that lead to their not returning are in fact very normal dog behaviors . . .sniffing, friendly, chase, etc.
These workshops will boost your dog’s ability to disengage from the environment and increase their value for being close to you.

08/26/2024

CANCELLED!

Looking for something fun to do with your puppy this long weekend? Why not bring him or her out to the PUPPY PLAY GROUPS happening at Keep It Simple Dog Training?

The cost for each group is $20.00 for an approximately 45 minute session. Available to puppies 8-16weeks of age.

The puppies will have a chance to play freely in a safely fenced-in yard outside and we will also have some activities/games for the guardians and puppies to do together promoting connection and relationship. BONUS: You will definitely go home with a tired puppy so that you can enjoy your long weekend.

Please email for more information or to register. [email protected]

08/23/2024

Tessa's brain never stops coming up with great ideas to help us all spend better quality time with our pups. Check out all of her on-line offerings.

Featuring the Puzzle Dog Academy!

Puzzle Dog has wonderful online courses for dog owners.
Learn from the comfort of your own home!

Soon we'll be adding the guided 'Puzzle Fun' course again!
The course has been taught from the Hersenwerk for Dogs platform the last couple of years (Hersenwerk InSight), but it will now come back where it started: in the Puzzle Dog Academy ❤

Keep and eye out!

08/23/2024

I recommend long lines from Get Dirty Pet Gear to all of my students!👍🐾🐶

Long Lines are one of the best tools for Dog Training!

So many Colours to chose from!

08/23/2024

Congrats to the Class of July/August 2024 Wednesday & Thursday evening students on completing the PUPPY KINDERGARTEN or ADOLESCENCE classes with us this week!🐾🎓🤩

Great group of pups and handlers.

There are still spaces in our classes starting next week. Please email [email protected] for more information or to register.

08/21/2024

Saturday September 7 or Sunday October 20 - 11:30 AM-1:00PM – RECALL WORKSHOP with Mel - $65.00 EACH (weather permitting these classes will take place outside in a fenced in field)

Why do we want an amazing recall?
-keeps dogs safe
-keeps owners happy
-keeps other dogs safe
-prevents conflicts

A non-existent recall is frustrating for sure but we have to remember that our dogs are just being dogs. Not coming back when called is not an abnormal behavior. The things that lead to their not returning are in fact very normal dog behaviors . . .sniffing, friendly, chase, etc.
These workshops will boost your dog’s ability to disengage from the environment and increase their value for being close to you.

08/20/2024

VARIOUS WEEKENDS IN AUGUST, SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER @ 10:15 am (Sunday August 25, Saturday August 31, Sunday September 1, Monday September 2, Saturday September 7, Sunday September 8, Sunday September 15, Sunday October 5, Saturday October 12, Sunday October 13, Saturday October 19, Sunday October 20) – PUPPY PLAY GROUPS with Mel - $20.00 per day

This Puppy Play Groups will be drop-in sessions where you must sign up at least three days prior to the session. There will be a minimum of four and a maximum of six puppies in each group. It will be a one-hour supervised play group with a few training games for puppies aged 8-16 weeks old. You can sign up for all of the groups your puppy is eligible to attend or just choose a few.

Please email to register. [email protected]

08/19/2024

"Saint Twiggy didn't need obedience training. She is 12ish and behaviour problems were a long forgotten thing of the past. However, we weren't doing much of interest together anymore. We'd go for our regular walks but the rest of her time was slept away. I wanted to do something special to enrich her life. So, we enrolled in the seniors class.

During the classes we talked about senior dogs and their issues, were reminded of games we used to play and learned new ones, played games to get her arousal up and games to calm down, ways to improve body awareness/proprioception and help with flexibility. We made simple puzzles to get her thinking. We're still playing -- it's fun for us both and nice to bring out the puppy in her.

Mostly we enjoyed just being out doing something together. I'd recommend the class to anyone who just wants to brighten up the old dog. Twiggy loved the classes and enjoys the games (we're still playing)."

-Adele

Want to put a smile on your old pup's face just like Twig's? Email to join the Oldies But Goodies class starting in October. [email protected]

08/19/2024

Tessa always has something new and exciting to offer so be sure to check out her website often😊

Guided Sensory Rooms & Puzzle Sessions you and your dog will both enjoy. Start seeing your dog's behaviour and movements differently.

08/19/2024

As these puppies are checking their "P-Mail", I want to let you know that I have sent out class confirmations for all of our weekday evening classes. If you feel you had signed up but did not receive an email please let me know ASAP. There are still open spaces in most of the classes so it isn't too late to join us. [email protected].

Confirmations for the weekend classes which start early next month will be sent out next week.

08/18/2024

Everyone with a senior dog should not miss the Oldies But Goodies class. Wisper (14 1/2 yrs) and I had a blast. It was such a special atmosphere. Wisper loved all the easy to follow activities and was so excited for each class. We loved every minute of it. ❤️

-Donna

Wisper is going to be returning to class in October. Do you have a senior dog who could use an outing with their favourite person . . . YOU? Send an email to join the next class. [email protected]

08/18/2024

VARIOUS WEEKENDS IN SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER @ 9:00AM (Saturday September 7, Sunday September 8, Sunday September 15, Sunday October 5, Saturday October 12, Sunday October 13, Saturday October 19, Sunday October 20) – OUTDOOR CIRCUIT WALKS with Mel – 8 WEEKS - $225.00/eight-week session or $33.00 each class

PREREQUISITE: Must have attended at least one foundations class with KEEP IT SIMPLE DOG TRAINING (Puppy Kindergarten, Adolescence, Family Pet)

Dogs of all ages who have attended at least one class with us in the past.

First of all, my apologies for the seemingly random class schedule, but my weekends are a little crazy at this time with my own dogs’ activities.

This class will consist of several stations or circuits set up outside at the training building property where you and your dog will move from station to station and engage in different activities at each station all while their classmates are doing the same thing. What a great way to work on disengagement from environmental distractions in a safe environment all while engaging in games and activities you and your dog have already learned in classes.

08/18/2024

Sunday October 6, Saturday October 12, Sunday October 13, Saturday October 19 – 11:30AM-12:15PM – OLDIES BUT GOODIES (formerly Seniors Rock) with Mel – 4 weeks -$130.00

This class is open to all dogs over the age of 8 years who have some foundation training whether with us, with another trainer or on your own. This age group of dogs is near and dear to my heart. We tend to pay attention to our younger dog’s mental and physical development but once our dogs are seniors, we just let them be. All dogs, especially seniors, should have the opportunity to be active, both physically and mentally. Just attending a class and allowing them to be “social” is an amazing boost for them. In this class we will play training games, do some fitness work, play some puzzles and just enjoy the time with our seniors . . . it seems there is never enough time ❤️

08/18/2024

Saturday September 7 or Sunday October 20 - 11:30 AM-1:00PM – RECALL WORKSHOP with Mel - $65.00 EACH (weather permitting these classes will take place outside in a fenced in field)

Why do we want an amazing recall?
-keeps dogs safe
-keeps owners happy
-keeps other dogs safe
-prevents conflicts

A non-existent recall is frustrating for sure but we have to remember that our dogs are just being dogs. Not coming back when called is not an abnormal behavior. The things that lead to their not returning are in fact very normal dog behaviors . . .sniffing, friendly, chase, etc.

These workshops will boost your dog’s ability to disengage from the environment and increase their value for being close to you.

08/17/2024

Someone has backed out of the Wednesday class last minute so we do have one space still available 🙂

Wednesdays @ 7:00pm- Starting August 28 (August 28, September 4, 11, 18, 25, October 2, 9, 16)– ADOLESCENCE with Mel - 8 WEEKS-$225.00

Thursdays @ 8:00pm- Starting August 29 (August 29, September 5, 12, 19, 26, October 3, 10, 17)– ADOLESCENCE with Mel - 8 WEEKS-$225.00

Dogs 6 months to 18 months of age who have not attended classes with us or who have attended PUPPY KINDERGARTEN or ADOLESCENT CLASS but would like to repeat this level.

Some people describe this life stage as the time when your cute puppy turns into a hormonal monster. For some dogs this usually lasts from 6 months to 18 months. In some dogs and the larger breeds and it last right into 3, 4 or 5 years of age! In this class we will target the common struggles of this life stage such as building Value for Proximity, Arousal Up/Arousal Down, Calmness, Disengagement and Relationship Building.

08/17/2024

Saturdays @ 9:00am September 7, 14, 21, 28)– TREK N’ TRAIN with Cindy - 4 WEEKS-$130.00

This class takes place in downtown Wolfville each week.
*Environmental enrichment
* Mental Stimulation
* Physical exercise
*Confidence boosting
In this class you will gain tools to help your dog focus or redirect their attention while in a distracting environment. Help your dog interpret social cues in a low-pressure format while walking with other dogs.

05/28/2024

BARRIERS TO LEARNING – WHY SOME DOGS STRUGGLE TO LEARN

“My dog is stubborn, doesn’t listen to me, a slow learner, not the smartest, tries to be in control, will only do it at home, will only behave sometimes, is uncontrollable……” – these are comments that are often heard.

Just like us, dogs need the right kind of conditions to either be able to learn something new or to bring about a change in behaviour.

Dogs are not robots that can be programmed by a set of specific inputs that guarantee consistent results. They are individual, sentient beings that need to be understood.

If we’re feeling stressed, anxious, tired, over excited, too distracted, not feeling well, have no motivation etc. we will find it really difficult, if not impossible to learn something new, change our behaviour or change a habit. The same applies to dogs.

A dog’s emotional state, the surrounding environment, motivation, age (pups, adolescents, seniors) or any health issues all have a significant impact on their ability to learn.

If your dog is having a hard time learning something, look at these factors and see if there is a reason that may be preventing progress.

Maybe your dog is just having an “off” day, just like we do.

Try again tomorrow or next week and set your dog up for success by having realistic expectations.

Learning or changing behaviour takes time, patience, consistency, understanding and the right conditions.

05/25/2024

Trek and Train graduates this morning, don't miss out on this fun class next session. :)

05/25/2024

The Wednesday Puppy Kindergarten class got to boost their confidence and optimism last week by playing a little Cardboard Chaos😁