Mountain Life Positive Dog Training

24/05/2024

Y'know, if there's one thing that drives me batty, it's when balanced trainers tell me prong/shock collars work when they're used the "right way." But we all know better, because...
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Check back often for new designs!

16/04/2024

01/02/2024

In traditional dog training, punishment is often used to discourage undesirable behaviours. This can include physical corrections such as leash jerks, alpha rolls, or even the use of choke or prong collars. The aim is to establish the trainer's dominance and control over the dog.

Traditional training methods often focus on correcting or suppressing behaviours that are deemed undesirable, rather than teaching the dog alternative behaviours or reinforcing positive ones. The primary goal is obedience and compliance, rather than considering the emotional well-being or natural instincts of the dog.

Moreover, traditional training may not prioritise building a strong bond and trust between the dog and the trainer. Instead, it is more focused on establishing a hierarchical dominance structure, with the trainer at the top.

It is important to note that the views on traditional training are evolving, and there is a growing understanding and shift towards more ethical and humane training approaches that prioritise positive reinforcement and consider the dog's welfare as a whole.

Ethical dog training encompasses much more than teaching behaviour change. It involves understanding a dog's natural behaviours and instincts, and using cues to communicate effectively. This type of training places a strong emphasis on meeting the dog's needs, ensuring their emotional well-being is prioritised throughout the process.

Ethical dog training recognises that teaching new behaviour options is just one aspect of a broader approach to dog care. It takes into account the dog's overall well-being and fosters a positive and respectful relationship between trainer and dog. By understanding the dog's needs, ethical training aims to meet them through a combination of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction.

In ethical dog training, the trainer is aware that a dog's behaviour is often a result of their environment, genetics, and past experiences. Rather than attempting to suppress or control these behaviours, ethical training works with the dog's natural instincts and focuses on positively reinforcing desired behaviours. This ensures that the dog is not subjected to unnecessary stress or harm.

Overall, ethical dog training in the UK combines the use of cues to effectively communicate with the dog, along with a comprehensive understanding of the dog's needs. By considering the bigger picture of a dog's well-being, ethical training aims to create a harmonious and trusting relationship between trainer and dog.

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01/02/2024

01/02/2024

Sniffing is not just a simple act; it's a profound way for dogs to gather information, communicate, and even experience joy.

Restricting this natural behaviour can hinder their cognitive and emotional development, potentially leading to stress or behavioural issues.

Moreover, it respects their autonomy and acknowledges their unique sensory perspective.

Ethically, permitting dogs the freedom to explore their environment through sniffing is akin to allowing them a voice and understanding in their world.

Want to work with dogs, ask your questions below.

31/01/2024

Many force free trainers are accused of being judgemental or argumentative for fighting for better training methods. The truth of the matter is, we shouldn't need to. This shouldn't be a conversation we even need to have, but sadly society continues to underestimate the fallout of leaving the dog training industry unregulated. So until the government wakes up and finally regulates the industry, we won't be silenced just to appease those that resist positive and scientific change.

When we express that we hate any aversives or punitive methods, we aren't insinuating that a dog wearing them never experiences happiness or that their guardian loves them any less. We are just saying there is a better way to train your dog; a way which will increase your dog's happiness and strengthen your bond. Isn't that what we all want? Isn't that something worth fighting for? - Holly Leake ©

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19/01/2024

It's not good enough to use punishment just because it works.

Punishing dogs in the name of training is an outdated method that, according to evidence, leads to significant welfare issues and an increase in stress-related behaviours. Research shows that punitive training techniques can cause psychological harm to dogs, leading to increased fear, anxiety, and aggression.

Dogs subjected to such methods often exhibit overt signs of stress like cowering, trembling, or avoidance behaviours, indicative of emotional distress. These methods also damage the bond between the dog and the handler, eroding trust and mutual respect.

17/01/2024

11/01/2024

Positive reinforcement isn't just about food. It's about smart use of available reinforcers. Use them wisely!

20/12/2023

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The Top Dog Academy is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to attain an advanced understanding of dog behavior and a superior set of skills for improving basic manners, behavior, and temperament. Our advanced concepts, instructions, and methods will allow you to attain a high level of off-leash reliability & control and accelerate the resolution of behavior and temperament problems, especially anxiety and aggressiveness.

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13/12/2023

31/10/2023

When it comes to teaching and learning about dog care and behaviour, it's crucial that we adopt ethical and kind methods. This ensures the well-being of our canine companions, fosters a stronger bond between us, and promotes a happier, more balanced dog. In this blog post, we'll explore the importan...

08/10/2023

We don’t learn good behaviours through fear. We simply learn how to avoid consequences and to appease.

Fear in our dogs is not always taken seriously, with so many videos floating round social media that get a few laughs.

We wouldn’t laugh if a child cowered in fear. We would take action, show concern and the same should go for our dogs.

We have the power to motivate, provide clarity and guide. We should never waste that on scare tactics or intimidation.

08/10/2023

We tend to rush dogs through life, and never really give them the chance to make their own choices, or observe something for long enough to understand it.

Just slowing down and letting them be still, is good for them and for us.

Remember: ensure they have enough space to feel safe.