⏰ When you do sessions with me, I will teach you to read your dog’s body language, so you can learn when is a good time to respond to your dog.
⏰ When you do sessions with me, I will teach you to read your dog’s body language, so you can learn when is a good time to respond to your dog.
Many trainers teach the how (how to fix, what to do, etc) but don’t focus on teaching on precise timing.
😩 Precise timing is the crux of training. No matter how good your methods are, if your timing isn’t right, you will cause more frustration than relaxation in your dog.
How is precise timing is achieved?
👀 Through accurate reading or body language, and lots and lots of practice. Hence why I film a lot in my session so I can replay, dissect and explain your dog’s body language with you.
🤗 My goal is for you to read your dog’s body language as if it’s your first language.
#dogtraining
🤯 That time I surprised myself with my understanding of our dog
When your dog barks,
What’s your first reaction?
🧘 Over the last few years, Rudi has learnt to ignore any barking till there is a response plan because it is ALWAYS better to respond rather than to react.
🎥 In this footage from our indoor camera, you can see that we both ignored the first barks without even thinking, while I quickly worked out the trigger for the bark.
I listened to the tone and frequency of the bark, and know instantly that it’s not an attention-seeking bark.
🔩🔩 I then replayed my senses for the moments prior to the bark and recalled that I heard the slightest tapping noise made by the two screws Rudi was holding. I knew immediately that THAT was the cause.
🧠 After verifying the cause, I got Rudi to casually make the noise again closer to Murphy, so she could investigate, learn that it’s no big deal, and have closure.
This short 90-second interaction is crucial to reducing and eliminating barking behaviours. A good response from you helps settle the confusion in your dog’s brain once and for all!
Response over reaction - did this come naturally for the two of us?
🙅♀️ Of course not! For the last 4 years, whenever our dogs did something behaviourally different, I would remind Rudi to “ignore her” while I worked out a response.
After this unplanned test, you’d be pleased to know that Rudi is now very well-trained. 🥹🤣🤣
#dogtraining
🤯 That time I surprised myself with my understanding of our dog
When your dog barks,
What’s your first reaction?
🧘 Over the last few years, Rudi has learnt to ignore any barking till there is a response plan because it is ALWAYS better to respond rather than to react.
🎥 In this footage from our indoor camera, you can see that we both ignored the first barks without even thinking, while I quickly worked out the trigger for the bark.
I listened to the tone and frequency of the bark, and know instantly that it’s not an attention-seeking bark.
🔩🔩 I then replayed my senses for the moments prior to the bark and recalled that I heard the slightest tapping noise made by the two screws Rudi was holding. I knew immediately that THAT was the cause.
🧠 After verifying the cause, I got Rudi to casually make the noise again closer to Murphy, so she could investigate, learn that it’s no big deal, and have closure.
This short 90-second interaction is crucial to reducing and eliminating barking behaviours. A good response from you helps settle the confusion in your dog’s brain once and for all!
Response over reaction - did this come naturally for the two of us?
🙅♀️ Of course not! For the last 4 years, whenever our dogs did something behaviourally different, I would remind Rudi to “ignore her” while I worked out a response.
After this unplanned test, you’d be pleased to know that Rudi is now very well-trained. 🥹🤣🤣
#dogtraining
Reactivity or what I call like to call an 'eruption', is often preceded by mounting tension... The leash, whether tight or loose, can be the tipping point. 💥
Get in touch and discover more about managing reactivity today!
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
Do different training methods matter? Of course they do!
The methods you choose shape your dog, and determine the situation you can comfortably put your dog in. So choose your trainer wisely! 🤔
If your dog is trained to only follow instructions, if your dog is trained to only 'listen' in order to get a timely reward, or if your dog only behaves because you are the 'alpha'...
A young child who cannot give commands (eg. language barrier), who has bad timing, no dog handling skills and zero knowledge on dog behaviour would never be able to walk your dog on a loose lead.
Murphy is trained to read her handler's body. language and act appropriately without the need for an instruction or treat motivation. She would happily walk nicely with anyone I hand her leash to. In this video, she's being walked by our non-English speaking relative from overseas, with no treats in hand. Can you believe that this is the first dog she's ever walked? 🤯
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
💬 Let's talk about the funny thing we humans call 'walking on a leash' with our dogs. It's a peculiar request we make of them, so it's important to invest time in teaching them how to walk nicely by our side.
Your leash should be used as a communication tool, not a restraining device.
When the leash has slack, it's like a breath of fresh air for everyone involved. Minimal frustration and maximum enjoyment - that's the goal of our walks!
My approach to treating loose leash walking is all about equipping YOU with leash management skills. No treats necessary, it's all about using the leash to communicate with your dog. Together, we will focus on building a strong relationship that will have your dog strolling right beside you, like a good friend would!
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
Teaching Relaxation 🐶
Relaxation doesn't happen overnight! When Murphy was a pup, we stood together in various places, letting her observe the world. She learned that the world isn't spooky or overly exciting. Now, she's focused on me wherever we go. 👀
Focus = Performance + Safety
Learn these steps in my Good Dog Blueprint workshop! www.DionaTheTrainer.com/Good-Dog-Blueprint
Balanced, Focused, & Controlled 🐕
A well-balanced dog knows how to keep their cool around people and dogs. It's about balance in their life - play, brainwork, and calmness.
Clear communication on walks means they'll walk by your side, and consistency and practice are the keys to perfection! ✅
A dog with impulse control is a predictable and well-behaved one. Ready to learn more? Join my Good Dog Blueprint workshop! www.DionaTheTrainer.com/Good-Dog-Blueprint
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
Leash walking isn't natural for dogs 🐶
That's why it's crucial to establish clear expectations when you clip on that leash.
Without proper communication, walks can quickly become frustrating for both you and your dog. But fear not! In my Good Dog Blueprint workshop, I'll reveal the secrets to teaching your dog how to walk politely on a leash right beside you.
Say goodbye to leash-related headaches and hello to enjoyable, stress-free walks.
Check out my website to learn more - www.DionaTheTrainer.com/good-dog-blueprint! 🐾
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
Building Bonds 🐾
Ever wondered why some dogs stay close while others dash off at the sight of fellow pups? It's all about value. When your dog values their time with you more than anything else, you gain control.
Letting your dog go wild with others early can dilute your value. We never hit the off-leash spots until we're sure our bond is unbreakable.🚫
In my Good Dog Blueprint, we'll amp up your value in your dog's eyes and elevate your relationship. www.DionaTheTrainer.com/Good-Dog-Blueprint
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
Feeding for Wellness 🐶
Nutrition is the foundation of well-being for your dog. Just as you wouldn't skip on a balanced diet for your own health, your dog's nutrition plays a vital role too. At every consultation, I emphasise its significance. It's the first step to a happier, healthier dog! 🐾
Since we switched Murphy to fresh food, we noticed that she's less itchy, more balanced, more relaxed in general. @the.drunken.cat is also on fresh food, and she's definitely less of a grumpy cat!
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
Fetch Tip: Double the Fun! 🎾
Is your dog a ball-hoarder? Try this trick! 🤩
Grab two balls and watch the fun unfold. When your dog returns with one ball, show them the second - they'll likely drop the first one to chase the new treasure! Give it a try!
Want to learn more fun ways to PLAY?
Check out my Good Dog Blueprint workshop - www.DionaTheTrainer.com/good-dog-blueprint
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
Relax and Brunch Mode ☕🐶
Brunch dates are a breeze when your dog stays cool around distractions. Teach your dog to settle with conditioned relaxation and on/off switches. Life gets easier!
Discover these techniques in my online Good Dog Blueprint workshop. Interested? Check out www.DionaTheTrainer.com/Good-Dog-Blueprint
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
Realistic Puppy Training 🐾
It’s important to set realistic expectations for your puppy’s behaviour. Puppies need time to learn, explore, and play. What you see here is just 1% of this 4-month-old pup’s training. Unrealistic expectations can lead to frustration. Let your pup be a pup!
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
Building Trust with Swaps 🔄Why choose swaps over taking from your dog? 🦴 It’s about trust and positive interactions. When I approach, it’s for a trade-up, not a snatch-and-grab. This way, my presence always signals something good. It helps reduce resource guarding and strengthens our bond. 💪#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
Unlock the freedom of walking your dog on your terms, not out of necessity! 🤗
Many people reach out when they can’t bear their dog’s unwanted behaviors, have suffered injuries from relentless pulling, or as they prepare for significant life changes like parenthood. 🙄🙄
Delaying training can deepen these behavioral patterns, or you may find yourself in a less flexible situation. 😪
If your dog’s actions are even slightly bothering you, don’t hesitate to seek assistance now, before minor issues turn into major obstacles!
Comment ‘READY’ if you’re ready for a life-changing transformation with your dog! 🐕
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
😩 Are you embarrassed and frustrated by your dog's reactivity? Do you want walks to be more relaxing and enjoyable?
😌 I focus on teaching you to manage your dog's arousal levels. When your dog is fulfilled and balanced, reactivity will disappear automatically.
🗣️ Sign up for my in-person sessions OR Good Dog Blueprint online workshop - one spot remaining!!!! 🔥
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
How does your dog behave when work needs to be done around the house? Does your dog nap in their beds like Murphy does? 😴
To be as cool as a cucumber, 3 basic skills is required:
1️⃣ Well-socialised with power tools - meaning they do not cause fear or over-excitement
2️⃣ Not bothered by visitors - not over-excited or too interested
3️⃣ A strong routine that is unaffected by external factors: inside the house = calm time
That morning when our couch was being fixed, I didn't tell Murphy to go to her bed. She voluntarily did it because life happens and in this scenario, she realised that it's none of her business. 🤷♀️
Teach your dog to behave without the need for instructions!
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
BEFOREs and happily ever AFTERs 🫶
If your shoulders and back hurt from walking your dog, let me help!
Teaching your dog to walk on a loose lead...
✅ Makes walks more enjoyable
✅ Reduces frustration on both ends of the leash
✅ Minimises reactivity
✅ Improves your relationship with your dog
Sign up for my in-person sessions OR Good Dog Blueprint online workshop - October intake is now LIVE!!!! 🔥
🔗 www.DionaTheTrainer.com/Good-Dog-Blueprint
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
😮💨 Do you feel like you've tried everything but nothing seems to work?
💪 I have helped hundreds of dogs and owners transform their relationships and you could be next. Get in touch now!
#DionaTheTrainer #dogtraining #melbourne
