307HappyDog

11/11/2024

Positive reinforcement training relies on rewarding desired behaviors instead of punishing unwanted ones. This approach helps dogs learn by associating good behavior with rewards, like treats, toys, or affection. Since dogs are motivated by these positive experiences, they’re more likely to repeat behaviors that earn them rewards, making them more eager and willing to cooperate.

Prong collars and other punitive methods, on the other hand, rely on discomfort or fear. This works as well and dogs learn to avoid the discomfort or what causes fear. However, the side effects can be tremendous which can damage the bond between a dog and its owner. These tools often cause stress and anxiety, which can hinder a dog’s ability to learn and may lead to behavioral issues in the long run.

Positive reinforcement strengthens trust and encourages a dog to make good choices voluntarily, without fear of punishment. By creating a positive learning environment, dogs feel secure, engaged, and excited to learn—making tools like prong collars unnecessary.

This page does not support the use of these harsh tools or explanations about how to use them “correctly”. Our view includes the fact that dogs deserve a safe learning environment at all times with no exceptions.

11/10/2024

🐾 November Dog Training Schedule 🐾

To sign up, please cal or email us!

🐶

11/08/2024

Important for everyone, especially those who have kids AND dogs:

Let sleeping dogs lie!

Veterinary Centres of America (VCA) (2021), estimates that, "60% of dog bites in children occur when the child wakes or attempts to wake a sleeping dog". In the UK, 75% of dog bites involve children, with a bite to the face or head. So clearly this demonstrates that any family dog can bite due to startle reflex, and that children are the most common victims. Simply touching the sleeping dog, talking near their face or kissing them on their head can be enough to startle a sleeping dog.

We would all love to believe that our dog would never bite us, our children or anyone else. Unfortunately, studies show that most bites are inflicted by their own family dog or a dog they know. You probably can't fathom your gentle dog biting you or your family. It would be completely out of character for them, but sadly this is often what families say after their dog has seriously bitten them or a family member, and its seen time and time again.

It is so unfair to euthanise dogs for startle reflex, when this behaviour is not a conscious choice. Regardless of whether your dog has startle reflex, make sure you always provide:

-Separate sleeping area that children cannot access, such as a bed behind a pen.

- Use safeguards, such as a barriers and child gates to keep your dog and children separate when you cannot 'actively' supervise their interactions.

-Prevent children playing on the floor and near a resting/sleeping dog.

- Always have a barrier between your dog and your baby/toddler when your baby/toddler is playing/crawling on the floor.

-Teach your children to never disturb the dog when they are resting.

- Train your dog to rest/sleep in a designated area, rather than the sofa.

The startle reflex is your dog's body and brain bracing them for potential danger. So by letting them sleep, you may very well save their life, and that of your child's. - Holly Leake

For more info check out my articles on the subject.

Why does my dog snap if I wake him: Understanding startle reflex
https://www.pawchores.com/post/why-does-my-dog-snap-if-i-wake-him-understanding-startle-reflex

Hot to manage your dog's startle reflex
https://www.pawchores.com/post/how-to-manage-your-dog-s-startle-reflex

11/07/2024

My days are obviously filled with dogs. This video shows an overview of how different they all are and how all of them are so willing to learn and thrive.

🐶 Need help with your pup? Give 307HappyDog a call! 🐶

11/07/2024

Our Real Life Training Class is open for clients who have worked with us and would like to practice their skills in real life settings. 🐾🐶.

When? Every Thursday at 10:30am.
🐶

11/05/2024

🐾Training tip🐾

Adding a long leash (not a retractable, but an actual long line) to your dog equipment, will release a lot of tension on both ends of the leash.
🐾 your pup will feel less restricted
🐾 there will be less pulling
🐾 walks will be more satisfying for everyone.

🐶 Need help with your energetic pup?🐶 Give us a call or visit our website for more information about our training services!

11/04/2024

We had a lot of fun during the Community Canine Good Citizen Class. Working around the Trick or Treaters was a blast. Thank you also to Sunlight Sports for letting us use the while store for practice. Humans enjoyed a pint night beer after work was done 🍻. Great work everyone!

11/03/2024

🐾 Your Sunday food for thought 🐾
There is nothing wrong with loving your dog as much as you would love a person. However, everyone needs to keep in mind, that dogs are a different species with different needs and desires.

11/02/2024

Asking a dog for consent before petting is essential for building trust and ensuring their comfort. Just like humans, dogs have their own boundaries and preferences. Before reaching out, observe their body language: are they relaxed and approaching you, or are they backing away?

A good approach is to let the dog come to you allowing them to sniff and get familiar with your scent. If they lean in or seem relaxed, it’s a sign they’re open to interaction. If they turn and or look away or show signs of stress, respect their space. This practice not only fosters a positive relationship but also helps prevent fear or anxiety in dogs and can prevent dog bites.

🐾if you would like to learn more about dog body language and training, get in touch! 🐾

10/30/2024

🐾Let’s shift our relationship with our dogs to one of trust and mutual understanding rather than control.🐾

Building a relationship with your dog fosters trust and companionship, making for a happier, more harmonious partnership. Rather than focusing on control, which can create fear or resistance, nurturing a bond encourages communication and understanding.

When you prioritize connection through positive reinforcement, play, and training, your dog learns to see you as a trusted and wise friend, rather than a boss. This mutual respect not only enhances behavior but also deepens your emotional connection. A relationship built on love and trust leads to a more confident, well-adjusted dog who enjoys learning and exploring the world with you. In the end, it’s about creating a lifelong partnership, where both of you thrive together.

Start today by dedicating some quality time to your dog! Engage in a fun training session, go for a long walk, or simply relax together. Share your experiences and tag us in your journey toward building a deeper bond. Let’s celebrate the joy of connection!

10/28/2024

Did you know?
Dogs (and all other animals) learn better with positive training methods for several reasons:

1. Motivation: Positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, motivates dogs to engage and learn. When they associate good behavior with rewards, they’re more likely to repeat those behaviors.
2. Trust and Bonding: Positive methods foster a trusting relationship between the dog and the trainer. This bond enhances communication and cooperation, making learning more effective.
3. Reduced Stress: Positive training creates a more relaxed learning environment. Dogs trained with harsh methods may experience fear or anxiety, which can hinder their ability to learn.
4. Encourages Exploration: Positive reinforcement encourages dogs to explore and try new behaviors, as they feel safe and rewarded for their efforts.
5. Long-lasting Results: Behaviors learned through positive reinforcement tend to stick longer, as they are associated with positive experiences, unlike fear-based methods, which can lead to avoidance or anxiety.

Overall, positive training is more humane, effective, and enjoyable for both dogs and their trainers.

Are you looking for a positive trainer in Wyoming: Visit our website to learn more about our training services: https://307happydog.com/

10/27/2024

Such a good summary of why leashes are a great and helpful management tool, especially when dealing with puppies and adolescent dogs: