Aratah Dog Training

16/04/2025

14/04/2025

08/04/2025

04/04/2025

28/03/2025

25/03/2025

25/03/2025

03/03/2025

New classes in March; Puppy Class starting this Sunday the 9th and Adolescent and Adult Dog Training course starting on the 23rd.

25/02/2025

Remi graduated from the beginner course at Hills Dog Training club today. He is such a beautiful and chilled little boy.♥️♥️♥️

20/02/2025

TRAINING TUESDAY - Dog Body Language

Dogs use posture, facial expressions, and other body languages to communicate....like this dog in the picture trying to communicate that he is feeling worried about the situation

Understanding your dog’s body language is a key aspect of being a responsible dog guardian. It is up to us to listen to them when they’re trying to tell us if they are feeling scared, worried, stressed, nervous, anxious, excited, playful, etc and to protect them if they need our help. They are counting on us to learn to understand them and know how to advocate for them in our human world.

Learning to understand your dog’s body language can help to give your dog a safer and happier life.

(*Taken from article written by Mel Ritterman - Cooper and Kids - full article on https://www.ppgaustralia.net.au/Owners/Advice/Dogs/Understanding-Dog-Body-Language/)

29/01/2025

TRAINING TUESDAY
What equipment should I avoid using on my dog?
There’s a wide range of dog equipment available, often marketed as quick fixes for behaviour problems. However, no tool can replace the time invested in building a strong bond with your dog and teaching desired behaviours. Incorrectly fitted or inappropriately used equipment can harm your relationship with your dog and may even cause injury.
The Pet Professional Guild Australia does not support the use of equipment designed to inflict pain, fear, or stress, such as choke chains, prong collars, or electric shock collars. These tools, often associated with force-based training techniques, tighten, pinch, or restrict your dog, sometimes even administering electric shocks.
Dogs of all sizes, including large or strong breeds, can be trained effectively without these harmful tools, even when addressing issues like aggression or anxiety. Instead, focus on humane alternatives and positive reinforcement. Using aversive equipment risks negative associations—e.g., if a dog pulls toward another dog or child and experiences pain, they might associate that discomfort with the other dog or child.
Electric shock collars are illegal under Animal Welfare Acts in many states, including ACT, NSW, and SA (with exceptions for invisible fences). Prong collars are also illegal to import into Australia due to welfare concerns. These tools are widely condemned by organisations like the RSPCA, Australian Veterinary Association, and international animal welfare bodies.
Choose humane, well-fitted equipment to ensure every experience your dog has is positive, fostering a safe and happy bond.
More information on appropriate equipment and how dogs learn can be found on the RSPCA SA’s Lead By Example campaign: http://www.rspcasa.org.au/the-issues/lead-by-example/
Information adapted from the PPGA info sheet https://ppgaustralia.net.au/Owners/Advice/Dogs/Equipment-to-Avoid



*Created with the assistance of AI

07/01/2025

TRAINING TUESDAY

A favorite pastime in summer is taking our dogs to the beach. But not every dog likes the water.

So what can we do to help them?

Here are some steps to help your dog become comfortable with the sea:

🐶Start with a calm environment: Choose a beach or shoreline with gentle waves and calm water. Avoid busy beaches with strong currents at first.
🐶Play near the water: Play fetch or other games on the beach near the water's edge to help develop a positive association with the water. Encourage them to approach the water by making it fun and rewarding.
🐶Gentle water exposure: Let your dog explore the water at their own pace. You can gently wade in with them, but avoid forcing them into the water. If the dog feels too nervous, allow them to stay on dry land.
🐶Use a life vest (if needed): Some dogs may not be natural swimmers, so using a life vest can make the experience safer and more enjoyable. Consider also a long line for extra safety.
🐶Find a friend: Some dogs gain confidence by seeing other dogs enjoy playing in the sea.

Training your dog to enjoy the sea is a gradual process. With patience and positive experiences, most dogs can come to love the beach and the water!