TPR Dog Training

08/10/2024

This is why I have an issue with so many people starting up their own rescues and dragging inadequately vetted dogs across state lines.

The event took place July 20 at Moms and Mutts Colorado Rescue for Pregnant and Nursing Dogs in Englewood. The state health department asked people who attended to call its hotline to determine if …

07/31/2024

Understanding the Owner's Role
As the owner of TPR Dog Training Laurie’s Way, I've seen firsthand the difference that an owner's mindset can make in the success of their dog's training. Even though my methods work very quickly, consistency is still the key to ensuring long-term success. Consistency, a combination of reinforcement and discipline, with the owner's active participation are crucial to achieving a well-balanced, well-trained dog.

Success Story: Three Labradors
Take, for example, a client with three Labradors. From day one, they embraced the training process with enthusiasm and dedication. They understood that overcoming leash aggression wouldn't happen overnight but required consistent effort and reinforcement. They followed the training plan meticulously, using both positive reinforcement and direct consequences. As a result, their Labradors are well on their way to learning how to handle life’s stressors without aggression or meltdowns. The owner’s commitment to consistency paid off, and their dogs are becoming happier and more balanced.

The Combination of Reinforcement and Consequences
A combination approach to training involves rewarding good behavior with treats and praise while also setting boundaries and correcting undesirable actions. This combination helps dogs understand what is expected of them and what behaviors are unacceptable.

The Struggle: Two Terriers
Contrast this with another client who had two small terriers. One of the dogs had a dangerous habit of jumping on a family member who was already unsteady on their feet, posing a serious risk of injury. Both dogs barked constantly at everything, acted aggressively toward guests, and were aggressive toward every dog they saw on walks. Dealing with the obvious safety issues was priority number one. We addressed these behaviors in the first appointment, using a combination of reinforcement and consequences. While the terriers were somewhat over dramatic, they responded well during the session. However, the owners struggled to maintain consistency. They were hesitant to correct their dogs, even though the dogs continued to accept treats, indicating they weren't traumatized by the corrections. Without consistent follow-through, the terrier's behavior reverted, posing the exact same safety risks as before our training session.

Repetition: The Path to Success
Repetition is the cornerstone of successful training. Just like learning any new skill, dogs need structured repetitions that have consequences for failure and repeated opportunities to get it right. This repetition helps to solidify good behaviors and make them second nature.

Conclusion
In dog training, the owner's mindset is just as important as the dog's behavior. Embracing consistency, finding the right combination between reinforcement and consequences, and committing to structured repetitions are key elements that lead to success. The stories of the Labradors and terriers highlight the importance of these factors. Neither group of dogs enjoyed getting consequences. Who does?! The owners of the Labradors were committed to following through with what was going to be best for their dogs in the long run; not just in the moment. Their dogs have a greater opportunity to live a much better life. The owners of the terriers were more concerned about their own feelings rather than what is good for their dogs and have sentenced them to live in the same dysfunctional state that they are in now. At TPR Dog Training Laurie’s Way, we are here to support you and your dog on this journey, ensuring that with the right mindset and dedication, you can achieve the well-trained dog you desire.

07/26/2024

https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fgarywilkes.substack.com%2F%3Fr%3D3yy7u%26utm_campaign%3Dsubscribe-page-share-screen%26utm_medium%3Dweb&h=AT0WZMG5Z62_l4wM385nYjd24ZtLIVJaUs97DiDMBCkmxRW37gQuFATu3lAEDKh_jm-3EJ5bCDhP3VBpcPPL9l9uuuJGN5MHuyE0X9KYavjGYtcgIcVyt4sjWuU4o4bQyw&s=1

Gary Wilkes Substack. Click to read Gary Wilkes Training and Behavior, a Substack publication with hundreds of subscribers.

07/21/2024

This is a heartbreaking post.

This is Teddy. I was scheduled to do a Zoom conference with his owners on Saturday morning. Shortly before we were scheduled to meet I got a text from his owner.

She was canceling the conference because Teddy was dead.

He died the night before as a result of swallowing a sock.

This is a tragedy. I could have stopped the behavior long before things got to this point. Teddy didn't need to die.

Please, if your dog or puppy ingests foreign objects call me before it's too late. The behavior can be stopped!!!

07/09/2024

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 Stars!!

Laurie really helped us out with our new dog, Roo, who was showing aggression towards people coming into our home. We had a vacation coming up and it was really stressful worrying about what to do. I took him to another trainer but he was on his best behavior because we were not at home. I found Laurie and she came to us, which made all the difference. She gave us tools to use to get his aggression under control and we showed the dog sitter the techniques Laurie showed us. Roo ended up deciding that the dog sitter was really his best friend and we were able to enjoy our vacation. I think that we will still have to work on this issue as new people come into the house but I feel better now that Laurie has shown us what to do. Thank you, Laurie!
-Alexandria G

06/11/2024

I often get asked by my clients "Why did my dog do that?"

Me It probably seemed like a good idea at the time."

Client "Well why didn't he ever do it before?"

Me "It probably never occurred to him before. "

Here's a prime example with Rampage. I have no idea how or when he came up with it but the activity seems to have the same effect on him that it does on humans.

05/14/2024

Does your dog struggle with anxiety? 🐕 Do they seem shy, nervous, or exhibit aggressive behavior? 😟 If so, I can help!

At TPR Dog Training Laurie's Way, I specialize in understanding and addressing your dog's unique behavioral needs. 🐾 I offer personalized in-home training sessions to work on these issues right where they occur. Additionally, I can provide support and training in other locations where your dog may need help.

Why Choose TPR Dog Training Laurie's Way?

Personalized in-home sessions 🏠
Specialized in anxiety, shyness, and aggression 🐶
Customized training plans to fit your dog's needs ✨

Contact Me:
📞 Call or text: 719-205-7241
🌐 Or complete the contact form on my website: https://www.dogtraininglauriesway.com/contact/

Transform your dog's behavior with expert help from TPR Dog Training Laurie's Way. Let's make your furry friend happier and more confident! 🐾💖

05/07/2024

🐕 **Choosing the Right Tools for Your Dog** 🐕

At TPR Dog Training Lauries Way, we believe in transparency. It's important to call things by their true names—a shock collar is a shock collar, not a 'stimulator.'

🔍 Understand Each Tool Know what behavior you're targeting before choosing a correction tool. Different tools affect dogs differently, so research is key!

🤔 Research and Ask Pros: Shock collars deliver sensations that vary between dogs. It could be too strong for some dogs, too mild for others, or they might not feel it at all.

🐾 Limited Use: We rarely use shock collars with clients' dogs because they're often not the best tool for most behaviors. However, they can help in specific situations like ensuring off-leash reliability or supporting owners with physical disabilities.

❌ Avoid Overkill: Shock collars aren't suitable for fixing aggression or typical puppy behavior because a highly aroused dog won't feel the shock as intended. With puppies, it's overkill—correcting their playful actions requires consistency, which is harder to achieve with a transmitter.

👉 The Goal: We prioritize your dog's safety and well-being, ensuring the tools and methods are best suited to their unique needs.

📞 Are you dealing with behavior problems with your dog? Ready to train responsibly and effectively? Contact TPR Dog Training Laurie's Way at 719-205-7241 to learn how we can help your furry friend thrive! Or learn more here https://www.dogtraininglauriesway.com/

03/12/2024

🚨🌸 March is Poison Awareness Month! 🌸🚨

As we step into spring, it's crucial to ensure the safety of our furry friends from potential dangers in our homes and gardens. 🐾🌷 March serves as a reminder to be vigilant about household and outdoor hazards like certain plants, chocolates, cleaning supplies, fertilizers, and pesticides. 🍫🧴

But don't worry! There are effective ways to keep your dog away from house plants, outdoor ornamental plants, and other threats, both indoors and outdoors. At Dog Training Laurie's Way, we're here to help you and your dog learn how to navigate these dangers safely. 🏡🐕

👀💡Stay informed about pet-safe products and what to do in case of an emergency. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, contact your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately. 📱👨‍⚕️

Let's make this month a time to spread awareness and take action to protect our beloved pets. Share your pet-proofing tips below and remember, knowledge is power when it comes to keeping our pets safe and healthy. 💬👇

Interested in learning more about keeping your pet out of harm's way? Reach out to us at Dog Training Laurie's Way. We're here to help! 🌟

03/07/2024

🐾 Attention Puppy Parents! 🐾

Are you struggling with your new furry family member's behavior? You're not alone! Our one-on-one Puppy Package Training is here to assist you. This personalized program is specifically tailored to address not just common issues, but also unique challenges your puppy may face.

Why should you or someone you know consider this training? Here's an authentic experience from one of our clients:

🐕 Most important behavior issue? Doesn’t like to be confined; left in kennel if we leave.

🐾 2nd most important? Eats and chews everything.

🐶 3rd most important "Scared of loud dogs - basic puppy things.

Impact on life? It’s a big change for both me and my husband. Mainly me since I am with him most of the day. Truman is in the learning stages as are we so it can be exhausting."

But that's not all! For a comprehensive view of what our Puppy Package Training covers, check out our list of what we train on.

Don't let these challenges overwhelm you. Our personalized training approach is designed to make your life and your puppy's life happier and more harmonious. Join us and start your journey towards a well-behaved and happy puppy! 🌟

03/05/2024

Henry the Crafty Canine: The Great Trash Escape 🐾✨

Meet Henry, our ingenious pup with a knack for kitchen capers! 🍽️🐶 Despite our best efforts to secure the trash can under the sink, Henry's determination knew no bounds. We thought we outsmarted him with an alarm system on one side of the cabinet, but Henry, ever the strategist, had other plans. 🚨🤔

He cleverly navigated to the other side, meticulously cleared the way, and claimed his prize without tripping the alarm. His victory was short-lived, though, as we finally outwitted him by securing both sides. 🏆🛑 But Henry's legend lives on as a testament to the cleverness and unpredictability of our furry friends.

Got a crafty canine of your own? Share your stories or photos in the comments! We'd love to hear about your mischievous pups and their hilarious escapades. 📸💬

02/27/2024

Excited to share a heartwarming transformation from Dog Training Laurie's Way! 🎉🐾 From extremely fearful, human and dog aggressive, constant barking, and even a history of biting, to a star pupil showcasing remarkable calmness and confidence amidst the New Year's Eve festivities. And this transformation took place in just two sessions!

Here are the owner’s complaints before we started our training:

What is the most important behavior issue you would like to fix?:
The most important issue is that she is very aggressive towards any people entering our home.

2nd most important?:
She consistently barks at the neighbors day and night whenever they are outside.

3rd most important?:
She is very dog reactive while on walks.

How are these issues impacting your life?:
The biggest issue for us is that she inhibits our ability to have friends and family over the house without kenneling her.

What does your dog's future look like now?:
Right now her future looks like just us at home and us kenneling her whenever we have friends and family over or travel to see friends and family.

And here is his comments after our two sessions:
"She did amazing! We had her out and walking around 9 people during NYE and when my brother stayed after my family left, she was snuggling and hanging with him. No issues! She has also been incredibly less reactive on the leash (with some occasional bonks)" - Matt (Meera's dad)

🎆✨ 🐕‍🦺🥳

02/20/2024

Reflecting on Responsible Pet Ownership

In the heart of every pet owner lies a commitment that extends beyond basic care. At Dog Training Laurie's Way, we see responsible pet ownership as a lifelong journey of love, understanding, and advocacy for our furry companions. 🐾💖

Commitment and Care

Owning a pet means embracing them as family, understanding their needs, and ensuring their health and happiness through regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and mental stimulation. It's about making time for those daily walks and playtime, fostering a deep bond. 🏥🥕

Training and Behavior

Beyond care, it involves training and socializing our pets to ensure they can safely interact with the world around them. It's a commitment to their well-being and a safer community. 🐶📘

Love and Advocacy

At the core, it's the unconditional love we share, showing patience and understanding. Being a responsible owner also means being an advocate for animal welfare, making informed decisions for their best interest. 🛡️🗣️

Let's reflect on our journey with our pets and share how we live up to this profound responsibility. What does responsible pet ownership mean to you? Share your stories below. 🐾💬

02/17/2024

💖🐾 **Celebrate American Heart Month with Your Furry Friend!** 🐕❤️

February isn't just for Valentine's Day love; it's also American Heart Month, a time to focus on heart health for both humans and our pets. At Dog Training Laurie's Way, we're passionate about ensuring our four-legged friends lead long, happy, and healthy lives. Here's how you can prioritize your dog's heart health this month:

1. Regular Exercise: Keep your dog active with daily walks, play sessions, and training exercises. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and supports cardiovascular health. 🚶‍♀️🏃‍♂️

2. Healthy Diet: Feed your dog a balanced diet suited to their age, breed, and health status. Avoid overfeeding and consult with your vet for diet recommendations that support heart health. Be cautious of some grain-free dog foods, as they have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease in dogs, particularly dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Opt for nutritionally complete and balanced diets that meet veterinary nutritional standards. 🥦🍖

3. Regular Vet Check-ups: Annual or semi-annual veterinary visits are crucial for early detection and management of heart-related issues. Ask your vet about heart health screenings. 🩺❤️

4. Watch for Symptoms: Be aware of signs of heart disease in dogs, such as coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and reduced willingness to exercise. Early detection can make a significant difference. 🚨

5. Love and Care: Above all, show your dog love and affection. A stress-free environment can contribute to overall well-being, including heart health. 🥰🐶

This February, let's take extra steps to ensure our dogs' hearts are as healthy and full of love as they make ours. Share your heart-healthy activities with us using the hashtag . Let's spread the word on keeping our furry friends happy and healthy!

If your dog's behavior is limiting their ability to exercise, especially if they're aggressive on walks, it's crucial to address this for both their physical and emotional health. At Dog Training Laurie's Way, we specialize in correcting behavioral issues, helping your dog become a calm and confident companion. Don't let behavioral challenges hold you back from enjoying healthy activities together. Reach out to us, and let's make your walks enjoyable and safe for everyone.

02/13/2024

💕🐾 This Valentine's Day, celebrate the love between you and your furry friend responsibly! 🐶❤️ At Dog Training Laurie's Way, we want to ensure you and your pup enjoy this day of love safely. Here are a few tips to make your Valentine's memorable and safe for your four-legged valentine:

1. Say No to Chocolate: While we humans enjoy chocolates as a sign of affection, they can be toxic to dogs. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and even seizures in dogs. Opt for dog-safe treats instead! 🚫🍫

2. Keep Alcoholic Beverages Out of Reach: Just like chocolate, alcohol is a no-go for dogs. It can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, coordination problems, breathing difficulties, coma, or even death. Celebrate with a dog-friendly mocktail for your pooch instead! 🍹🐕

3. No Drinking and Driving: If your Valentine’s Day celebration includes going out, make sure your dog is safely secured in the vehicle, and never drive under the influence. Consider a cozy night in or a dog-friendly date outdoors where everyone can stay safe. 🚗💨

4. Safe and Sweet Surprises: Consider gifting your dog a new toy or some extra playtime instead of traditional sweets and treats. A long walk or a new chew toy can be the perfect way to say "I love you" to your furry companion. 🎁❤️

Let's spread the love this Valentine's Day by keeping our pets safe and happy. Share your Valentine's Day celebrations with us using the hashtag . We can't wait to see how you and your furry valentine spend the day!

Wishing you a paw-sitively perfect Valentine's Day filled with love and wagging tails! 💘🐕

02/10/2024

I got to work with this cool little girl for the first time today.

She didn't like me much at the beginning but we were besties by the end of the appointment.

02/07/2024

🦷🐾 February is Pet Dental Health Month! 🐕💙 At Dog Training Laurie's Way, we're not just about obedience and behavior - we understand that a healthy dog is a happy dog, and that certainly includes dental health!

Poor dental hygiene in dogs isn't just about bad breath; it can lead to a host of health issues that can significantly impact their overall well-being. Here’s what could happen without proper dental care:
- Gum Disease: Just like in humans, plaque and tartar build-up can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease, causing pain, tooth loss, and infections.
- Heart Disease & Organ Damage: Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs, including the heart, liver, and kidneys, leading to serious health conditions.
-Tooth Decay and Loss: Neglected dental care can result in painful cavities and tooth loss, affecting your dog's ability to eat properly.
- Infections: Infection in the mouth can lead to abscesses or spread, causing more systemic health issues.

This month, we encourage all pet parents to take a moment to consider their furry friend's dental health. Here are a few tips to get started:
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule a dental check-up with your vet.
- Brushing: Incorporate tooth brushing into your daily routine. 🪥
- Healthy Chews: Provide dental chews that help clean teeth and freshen breath. 🦴

Share your dog's smiley photos and dental care tips with us using the hashtags .

Remember, a healthy mouth leads to a healthier, happier pet. Let's spread smiles all February long! 😁🐶

Having trouble getting your dog to sit still for daily brushing? That's something I can help with. At Dog Training Laurie's Way, we're equipped to teach your dog to remain calm and cooperative during their dental care routine. Reach out for more tips and training advice!

02/06/2024

Excited to share a heartwarming transformation from Dog Training Laurie's Way! 🎉🐾 From extremely fearful, human and dog aggressive, constant barking, and even a history of biting, to a star pupil showcasing remarkable calmness and confidence amidst the New Year's Eve festivities. And this transformation took place in just two sessions!

"She did amazing! We had her out and walking around 9 people during NYE and when my brother stayed after my family left, she was snuggling and hanging with him. No issues! She has also been incredibly less reactive on the leash (with some occasional bonks)" - Matt (Meera's dad)

🎆✨ 🐕‍🦺🥳

01/30/2024

Obedience vs. Impulse Control in Dog Training: Mastering the Art of Calmness

At Dog Training Laurie's Way, we emphasize the importance of understanding the balance between obedience and impulse control. Effective training is more than teaching commands; it's about helping dogs manage their emotions, especially arousal and excitement.

Why Lowering Arousal is Essential

Trying to train a dog in a high state of arousal is challenging. Like trying to have a conversation with someone in the middle of a marathon, a dog's high excitement, fear, or anxiety levels can make learning and obedience difficult.

Step 1: Recognize the Signs of Arousal
Be aware of signs like excessive barking, jumping, panting, or hyperactivity. Recognizing these signs early is key to effective intervention.

Step 2: Provide a Consequence to Derail Arousal
Intervene at the onset of arousal with a consequence that disrupts this state. The goal is to prevent the escalation of arousal before it becomes unmanageable.

Step 3: Reset and Reward Calm Behavior
As the owner, it's important to reset and try again if your dog becomes over-aroused. When your dog calms down, immediately reward this behavior. This teaches your dog that calmness leads to positive outcomes and is essential for learning to control impulses.

Patience and consistency are crucial in dog training. By focusing on reducing arousal and rewarding calmness, you set the stage for a more obedient and manageable dog.

Stay tuned to Dog Training Laurie's Way for more insights and tips on fostering a respectful and harmonious relationship with your furry friend!

If your dog is having trouble learning, I can help!

Laurie

01/23/2024

As a devoted puppy parent, you're faced with a pivotal decision: how to best train your furry friend. While puppy classes are popular, often sought for their socialization benefits, I'm here to reveal why one-on-one training with me is the superior choice for your puppy's development, especially in the long run.

Personalized Attention: A Game Changer with Me
First and foremost, one-on-one training with me offers a level of personalized attention that simply can't be matched in group settings. Every puppy is unique, with their own personality, learning pace, and specific needs. In individual sessions, I tailor my approach to fit your puppy's character and learning style, ensuring they receive the focused guidance they need to thrive.

Customized Training Plan: Targeted Results with My Expertise
With one-on-one training with me, we create a customized training plan that targets your puppy's specific challenges and goals. Whether it's mastering basic commands, addressing behavioral issues, or preparing for specific situations, this personalized roadmap designed by me is crafted to achieve faster and more effective results.

Building a Stronger Bond: You, Your Puppy, and Me
Another significant advantage of training with me is the opportunity for you and your puppy to strengthen your bond. Training together in a one-on-one setting with my guidance deepens your connection, enhances communication, and fosters mutual respect. This strong bond is a foundation for a lifetime of companionship and trust.

Understanding Your Puppy's Developmental Stages with My Insight
Many opt for puppy classes mainly for socialization, but it's crucial to understand the developmental stages of puppies. Around the age of 5 months, puppies go through a developmental stage that can dramatically affect their behavior and social skills. This period often negates the socialization benefits gained from early puppy classes, making it vital to focus on training that can adapt to these changes, which is where my expertise comes in.

One-on-One Training with Me: Adapting to Developmental Changes
In one-on-one training with me, I am equipped to adapt our approach as your puppy grows and changes. This flexibility ensures that training remains effective and relevant throughout your puppy's development, including navigating the challenging period around 5 months of age.

Safety and Health: A Priority in My Training
Group settings can pose health and safety risks, especially for young puppies still building their immunity. One-on-one training with me eliminates these concerns, providing a safe and controlled environment where your puppy can learn without the risk of illness or negative interactions with other dogs.

Focused Socialization: Quality over Quantity with My Approach
While puppy classes offer broad socialization opportunities, one-on-one training with me includes focused socialization that is more effective and controlled. I introduce your puppy to new experiences, environments, and people in a way that builds confidence and positive associations, preparing them for the real world in a safe and supportive manner.

Convenience and Flexibility: A Hallmark of My Training
Finally, one-on-one training with me offers unmatched convenience and flexibility. Sessions are scheduled at times that work best for you, eliminating the stress of fitting into a rigid class schedule. This flexibility allows for consistent training, crucial for your puppy's learning and development, under my guidance.

Conclusion: The Wise Choice for Your Puppy's Future with Me
In conclusion, while puppy classes might seem appealing for socialization, the reality is that the developmental stage puppies go through around 5 months can significantly impact the long-term effectiveness of these early socialization efforts. One-on-one training with me, however, provides a comprehensive, adaptable, and personalized approach that not only respects your puppy's individuality but also fosters a deeper bond between you and your furry companion.

By choosing personalized one-on-one training with me, you're not just investing in basic obedience or tricks; you're investing in a well-rounded, confident, and happy puppy who is well-prepared to navigate the complexities of their world. You're choosing a path that respects their individual developmental stages and provides the support and guidance they need every step of the way, with my expert assistance.

Remember, the journey you embark on with your puppy during these formative months sets the foundation for your lifelong relationship. By choosing one-on-one training with me, you're choosing a path of understanding, patience, and tailored guidance that will unlock the full potential of your beloved puppy.

Let's embark on this incredible training journey together, and witness the remarkable transformation in your puppy under my expertise. Reach out today to schedule your first one-on-one session with me, and take the first step towards a happier, well-behaved, and fully realized furry family member.

- Laurie

This revised post further emphasizes the unique benefits and value of training specifically with you, integrating your expertise and role throughout the content. Feel free to adjust the content to better suit your specific services and training philosophy.

01/06/2024

I tell my clients this all the time. Their dog's bad behavior is rarely their fault. The dog is doing dog stuff and the owners are drowning in misinformation on the internet.

Punishment is generally considered the human application of naturally occurring forces that influence behavior. That's about all you can say about the subject before hitting a fork in the road: the traditional, colloquial use of the term and the attempts by science to describe the phenomenon.

01/02/2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hello Laurie,

Graham is still doing well. Getting better every day. He loves to play fetch and is a little obsessed with it. Haha! He does well around people we have over and we still use the click and bonk. Although it seems he has turned meeting people into “touch” training.
“Princess” Toast has never been better! No more jumping when we get home. Koko is doing well too. We are all good! Thanks for checking in!

We owe all this to you!

Thanks again,
Tanya and Bryce