Four Paws Guidance Dog Training LLC

07/01/2024

If you want to learn a great way to communicate with and train your dog, check out my new book!

AHA! Now I Get It! A Basic Guide to Faster, Easier Dog Training Using Markers: Color Edition

10/02/2023

Today we officially completed our Rally Master title. Rumor and I had so much fun navigating our way through Judge Mrs. Joyce Rienzo's Master course. It was very challenging but fair. We scored a 98 out of 100 which earned us a 3rd place. These trials are very competitive but Rumor and I were up for it. Thank you judge Rienzo and Nassau Dog Training Club, for a very memorable trial. "Rumor" AKC GCH CH/CKCSC CH Sunjays Rumor Has It AKC-RM, AKC-TKI, CGCA, C-Versatility Achiever Excellent, C-RE, C-TKA, AKC Achiever Dog. Proudly bred and owned by me. 😃🐾

09/29/2023

This past weekend I chaired a Breed Handling seminar at the Port Chester Obedience Training Club, in White Plains, NY. Our presenter was professional handler Norma Smith. Norma was amazing!! She had all of us, both beginners and advanced, handling our dogs like pros. Here is my write up for the Sit N Stay Newsletter:
On September 23rd & 24th PCOTC held a Breed Handling Seminar presented by Professional Handler Norma Smith. This well-attended seminar included handlers of all levels of experience, but mostly beginners to the sport. I was amazed at how beginners went from hardly any knowledge of showing a dog to showing as though they had shown for a long time. I was shocked to learn that the owner who won the Best in Beginner Class had only just started to show her dog! It was impressive to see how Norma was able to help owners of unruly dogs. By the end of the weekend there was a vast improvement. It was great to see these dogs move around the ring so well behaved, and their owners look of delight. Norma’s seminar was very helpful to experienced handlers as well. These handlers learned how to improve their performance by learning correct ways to show and to be aware of old incorrect habits.

I want to thank the Port Chester Obedience Training Club for giving me the opportunity to hold this successful seminar. Many have benefitted because of this wonderful club!

Group photo
Left to right: Norma Smith, Fran Helman, and participants.

Best in Seminar and First Place Advanced – Laura Glynn and Chase

First Place Beginner –Eileen D’Ercole and Gordi

Most improved - Lyn Bianchi and Smudge

Best Dressed – Kathie Jochen with Bandit

Congratulations to the winners of the seminar! In my opinion, all participants were winners!

Thank you again Norma!!!!!!

08/29/2023

The most important tips I can give to anyone who wants to have a well trained dog are:

Teach them how to communicate with you by using a Reward Marker.
Teach them how to learn. By teaching them how to learn you are setting them up to figure things out on their own.
It's OK if they make mistakes. Give them more chances to figure it out. When they do, use your Reward Marker to let them know they have gotten it right. Then have a party!
Keep it fun! 😀🐾🐾

08/29/2023

Book #3. 😀🐾🐾

08/29/2023

Early this morning I was out in the yard with the dogs when Starburst started to bark at something. So I said to her, "oh little dog what do you hear?" Then I continued on, which led me to write this poem. Starburst always seems to inspire me. First, to write three children books about her, and now this poem.
Ode to a Little Barking Dog
Oh little dog, what do you hear?
Oh little dog, what do you smell?
Oh little dog, what do you see?
Could there be bears in the brush?
Groundhogs in their borrows?
Or, squirrels in the trees?
What can I do?
Cry out "Hush!"
Cry out "No!"
Or, just let it go!
Oh little dog, whatever it is, I'll just let you be!

02/03/2023

We are so excited to announce that Starbursts' second book is live on amazon.com! "Starburst Meets A New Friend," is an adorable story about two animals who become good friends. Her first book, "Read With Starburst," tells how Starburst visits young children at schools and libraries to encourage them to read. Starburst is a registered Therapy Dog and Reading Education Assistance Dog.(R) Both books come with a bookmark page. We hope you enjoy the books! Starburst has a page: Starburst The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 😀🐾

01/15/2023

So proud of my Breezy. She passed her Therapy Dog evaluation today, given by Bright & Beautiful. She was born to be a therapy dog. I know she will enrich many peoples lives with her sweet and gently ways. Good girl Breezy! ❤️

01/11/2023

Training tip for the day: Patience is a virtue. Allow your dog to have some time to figure things out. If he's showing frustration, back up to an easier step where he was successful at, then build from there. Happy training! 🙂🐾

06/15/2022

Attention Rally Enthusiasts!

The Port Chester Obedience Training Club is holding a Rally Match Show on Saturday July 9, 2022. The match will run from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM in the lower level of the club. Pre-registration is required. Closing date is June 30th. Cost is $10.00 per run, with a limit of 2 runs per dog, and 4 runs per person. Additional runs will be allowed if there is availability.
The nested courses will run from Masters through Novice. Once the schedule is complete it will be emailed to you for confirmation of your time of run.

Send your entry and registration fee to:
Rick Pisani
874 Broadway
Brentwood, NY 11717

Entry info:

Handlers Name
Email
Cell phone number
Breed/Mixed
Class level ( Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Excellent, Masters)
Jump height if applicable (Advanced to Masters)

Make check payable to PCOTC.
FMI: Contact Rick at [email protected]

11/06/2021

News hot off the press. Rumor wins her first leg(out of three) with a 2nd place in Rally Advanced A, with a score of 96 out of 100. This was our first performance trial since 2019. Thank you to our judge Lynda Moore for a great course and for judging us. And thank you to the volunteers from the Port Chester Obedience Training Club for putting on a great trial! 😀🐾

08/25/2021

03/26/2021

Spring has sprung! It's time to prepare for outdoor dog shows. Join us at our outdoor Drop-in Breed Handling classes starting on April 7th. Register on the Port Chester Obedience Training Club website: www.pcotc.org You can register for 1 class or for as many classes as you'd like. Pre-registration is required.

02/01/2021

Food puzzles are always fun to play but especially on snowy days like today. The onlookers are patiently awaiting their turn. 😊🐾

These Nina Ottosson puzzles can be found on amazon.com.

01/18/2021

JOIN US THIS SUNDAY JAN. 24TH AT 11:00 AM FOR A BREED HANDLING WORKSHOP

"How to teach puppies to move properly on a show lead."

January 24th from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Remotely Via Zoom

Presenter: Fran Hellman

Join Fran for this Breed Handling Virtual Workshop!

Puppies aren't born loving to have a show lead around their necks or with the ability to walk in a straight line. In fact, most puppies will resist moving with a lead on. You pull and they resist. In this Workshop you will learn the “Go-Get-It” technique for a successful performance with a puppy that enjoys showing.

This Workshop will cover:
• How to create a positive association to the show lead
• How to train your pup to move out in a proper and showy gait
• How to train your pup to make smooth turns for gait patterns
• How to train your pup to control his/her forward movement
• How to move your pup around in a circle left

About the Instructor:
Fran Hellman, CPDT-KA, has been an owner-handler for over 30 years. She has enjoyed numerous wins with both her homebred and acquired dogs, some of which include: Specialty Best In Show, Best of Breeds, Group placements, Best of Winners, Best Veteran, Best Puppy in Show, and Best Owner/Handler. She has on occasion handled dogs for other owners. Fran has also trained several dogs to various AKC performance titles and has certified several therapy dogs.

Cost: $25 per Registration
Register here by January 22, 2021
Any questions, contact Fran Hellman at [email protected] or [email protected]

01/08/2021

"How to teach puppies to move properly on a show lead."

January 24th from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
Via Zoom

Presenter: Fran Hellman

Join Fran for this Breed Handling Virtual Workshop

Puppies aren't born loving to have a show lead around their necks or with the ability to walk in a straight line. In fact, most puppies will resist moving with a lead on. You pull and they resist.

This Workshop will cover:

How to create a positive association to the show lead
How to train your pup to move out in a proper and showy gait
How to train your pup to make smooth turns for gait patterns
How to train your pup to control his/her forward movement
How to move your pup around in a circle left

Cost: $25 per Registration
Register by January 22, 2021 www.pcotc.org

Any questions, contact Fran Hellman at [email protected]
or [email protected]

Port Chester Obedience Training Club offers group dog training classes in White Plains, NY. We are conveniently located for dog training in Westchester County, Fairfield County, Putnam County, and NYC. Group dog training classes in agility, obedience, nosework, scentwork, breed handling. Classes for

01/01/2021

𝒜𝒯𝒯𝐸𝒩𝒯𝐼𝒪𝒩 𝒞𝒪𝒩𝐹𝒪𝑅𝑀𝒜𝒯𝐼𝒪𝒩 𝐻𝒜𝒩𝒟𝐿𝐸𝑅𝒮!
PCOTC Online Zoom Drop-In Breed Handling Classes with Fran Hellman❢
Saturday’s from 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Fee: $10.00
Classes start January 2, 2021
Sign up on the website: www.pcotc.org

INSTRUCTOR: Fran Hellman CPDT-KA; [email protected]
Our Breed Handling classes have gone virtual!
Beat the winter doldrums by training your show dog from the comfort and safety of your own home. Let’s get together and enjoy the camaraderie of the sport that we love! Whether you are just starting out with showing or have lots of experience these classes have a lot to offer. Classes will run like an in-person class.
●Classes will cover:
•Dog’s focus on handler
•Stand and stay
•Hand and Free Stacks
•Gaiting patterns
•Examinations – by handler and/or house member
•Showing your dogs teeth
•Ring etiquette
•Presentation
•Addressing any questions regarding handling and dog shows
Sign up on the PCOTC website at least 24 hours in advance so that you can be added to the Zoom invitation.
(In-person classes will resume in April.)

Port Chester Obedience Training Club offers group dog training classes in White Plains, NY. We are conveniently located for dog training in Westchester County, Fairfield County, Putnam County, and NYC. Group dog training classes in agility, obedience, nosework, scentwork, breed handling. Classes for

12/22/2020

Wishing you and yours a very happy, healthy and safe holiday season!! From Fran and company. 🙂🌲🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

10/09/2020

Are you training your dog at home during the pandemic?

The American Kennel Club (AKC) has just launched a new virtual program called Virtual Home Manners (VHM). There are two levels; Puppy (VHMP) and Adult (VHMA).

Quoted from the AKC website, " Virtual Home Manners tests assess ten skills that well-mannered pet dogs need in the home setting. Dogs that pass the tests will be awarded with these titles." For more info visit www.akc.org.

I am happy to be an evaluator for these skills.

Visit my website for more information about how I can help you to train your dog www.fourpawsguidancedogtraining.com.

Get expert results for puppy training, dog training, therapy dog training, or show handling training in Bergen County, NJ and Rockland County, NY

04/21/2020

HI ALL!!

ANNOUNCING THAT I AM NOW OFFERING LIVE ONLINE DOG TRAINING SESSIONS. CONTACT ME BY EMAIL TO SET UP A CONSULT VIA PHONE OR VIRTUAL ZOOM MEETING. DON'T KNOW HOW TO JOIN A ZOOM MEETING? NO WORRIES, I'LL WALK YOU THROUGH IT.

VIEW MY WEBSITE TO SEE THE SERVICES THAT I OFFER AND FOR CONTACT INFORMATION. WWW.FOURPAWSGUIDANCEDOGTRAINING.COM

04/21/2020

Help your dog beat the boredom blahs from having to be home for lengthy periods of time. Food dispensing toys are a great way to provide both mental and physical stimulation. Dogs quickly learn that by pushing the toy with their paw or nose that a yummy treat can fall out. Food dispensing toys come in all shapes and sizes and can be purchased on amazon.com. You can feed your dogs kibble meals from these dispensers or any small dry treat.

Some benefits are:
Tires your dog out
Keeps his mind off chewing on things that he shouldn’t
Learns to keep himself busy
Helps to prevent separation distress or anxiety
Prevents bloat in dogs that eat their meals too quickly

This video shows a group of dogs working to dispense Cheerios from their food dispensing toys.
*If you have any dogs that are known resource guarders, i.e. dogs that protect their food bowl, separate them with their own food dispensing toy, so that they will not feel threatened.

04/09/2020

Do you know that your dog can earn an American Kennel Club title while in the comfort of your home? The American Kennel Club offers Trick Dog titles by virtual or video evaluation. Think of how much fun you and your dog will have while learning how to do simple tricks. Go to www.akc.org and search "Trick Dog" for info on how to go about the process. There are even great instructional videos on how to train simple tricks. As an AKC Trick Dog Evaluator I would happy to evaluate your videos for free during the COVID pandemic. I've attached a video of my dog Breezy demonstrating a "Paws Up" trick. Super simple!

03/13/2020

Due to the novel Corona Virus unfortunately more people are having to socially distance themselves and be home more. On a positive note, this allows for more time to train our dogs. On my website, for now, I only have two videos. But these are very important because they demonstrate simple and very useful behaviors. One, demonstrates how to train your dog to have impulse control which teaches him/her to wait until you say it's ok to go. The other is a scent game which will stimulate your dogs brain and help to tire him out. Check them out at: www.fourpawsguidancedogtraining.com

02/12/2020

Westminster 2020 was a bitter-sweet day for me. I knew it would be our last hurrah as I would be retiring Rumor as a show dog after that day. As we prepared that morning she knew that she was going to a dog show. She was so excited! She was whining, staring at me and jumping at the door as if to say, "Let's go!, let's go already!" In typical Rumor fashion, she was so well behaved at the show and when it came time for us to show she gave it her all and showed like a million bucks. There were no ribbons for us that day but ton's of great memories which I will cherish forever. It's been a privilege and a dream come true to have bred and raised this amazing little girl. At 4 1/2 years old we've accomplished a lot together and I hope that our journey continues on for many more years to come. CKCSC-USA CH BIS/ AKC GCH Sunjays Rumor Has It, RI, CGCA, TKI, C-RI, C-TKI ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

01/18/2020

Great day for us! Rumor finished her Grand Championship by going Select under judge Polly Smith at the Boardwalk Kennel Club show. I am thrilled to have attained this title! We also won Best of Breed Owner Handled but didn't stay for the OH Group due to the impending snow storm. My little home bred girl has made me very proud in so many ways. She is an absolute joy to live with and tons of fun to train and show. When she was a baby puppy I had hopes of being able to show her but not in my wildest dreams did I think we could achieve so many titles. She is now: CKCSC-USA BIS CH / AKC GCH Sunjays Rumor Has It, RI, C-RI, TKI, C-TKI, CGCA. Rumor's sire is CKCSC-USA CH / AKC GCH Forestcreek Dream On, and her dam is AKC CH Sunjays Modern Dancer (CKCSC-USA pointed). HUGE thanks go out to ALL the conformation judges that recognized her quality and to the performance judges that we trialed under.😃🐾🎉

12/15/2019

Had a successful day with Rumor at the Lehigh Valley Kennel Club dog show yesterday. We won Best of Breed for a 4 point major toward our grand championship, plus Owner-Handled Best of Breed and Owner-Handled Group 1 in the Toy Group. Because the Meadowlands Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club supported the entry we were awarded with a beautiful Best Bred By Exhibitor ribbon, a ceramic cookie jar and silver deer ornament. Sending HUGE thanks to our judges Peggy Beisel-Mcllwaine and Dr. Adam Stafford King, and to the dog clubs who work so hard to make this all possible for us.

12/04/2019

Had a successful day with our evaluations. Breezy (golden ret) passed her AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) and AKC Canine Good Citizen Advanced (CGCA) tests, and Victoria (cavalier) only tested for CGC and passed. Thank you to our evaluator Jamie McKay of Port Chester Obedience Training Club. The AKC Canine Good Citizen program recognizes dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. For more information visit: www.akc.org/events/cgc/training_testing.cfm

11/15/2019

11/15/2019

Certified Professional Dog Trainer- Knowledge Assessed CPDT-KA
Specializing in puppy training, basic manners training, therapy dog training, Canine Good Citizen prep, and show handling.

www.fourpawsguidancedogtraining.com

Contact us at [email protected]

Get expert results for puppy training, dog training, therapy dog training, or show handling training in Bergen County, NJ and Rockland County, NY

11/13/2019

For those of you who would like to try showing your purebred dog at a dog show you would need to first start taking show handling, also called breed handling, lessons to learn the ropes. I teach those lessons on Wednesdays at Port Chester Obedience Training Club in White Plains, NY. We accommodate all training levels so if you're new to the sport, not to worry. It's about having fun with your dog while learning. These are drop-in classes so you can come and try out a class. No need to register. There is a fee. Just give me a heads up if you will be dropping in so that I can give you some info before class. Check out the club website for more information. Specifically go to the Current Class Schedule page for dates and times. www.pcotc.org 😊🐾

Port Chester Obedience Training Club offers group dog training classes in White Plains, NY. We are conveniently located for dog training in Westchester County, Fairfield County, Putnam County, and NYC. Group dog training classes in agility, obedience, nosework, scentwork, breed handling. Classes for