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07/11/2024

# # # Finding Harmony on Walks: Overcoming Reactivity to Other DogsWalking your dog should be a joyful experience, but it can feel overwhelming if your pup reacts to barking dogs. You're not alone! This common challenge can be addressed with the right approach. # # # # Understanding ReactivityDogs react to barking for various reasons—fear, frustration, or a desire to play. It’s essential to tackle this behavior for enjoyable walks. # # # # The Importance of ControlStart by establishing control with basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "leave it." A well-trained dog can better manage distractions. # # # # Creating a Controlled Learning EnvironmentSet up training sessions in a quiet space to help your dog learn to stay calm around barking dogs. # # # # Real-Life Success: Gio's JourneyJust like Gio, who recently ignored barking dogs during training, you can achieve harmony on walks! # # # Let’s Work Together!If you're struggling with a reactive dog, reach out! With the right techniques, we can turn stressful outings into joyful adventures. 🐾✨

13/10/2024

AD passed for Gio at Piedmont Schutzhund Club under USCA Judge Don Yelle!

18/07/2024

🐾🎉 Happy Tails Alert! 🎉🐾 Meet Skipper, Gio, and Magnolia - the dynamic trio who just aced their training session and are all smiles! 🐕🌟 Looking to unleash your furry friend’s potential? Look no further! Contact us to book a session and join the pack! 🐶🐾 🐾🐶

04/07/2024

Happy 4th July to my family and friends and a big thanks to all my clients for supporting me in my business. Thank you for keeping my dream alive. ❤️🍾

28/06/2024

🐾📸 Strike a pose! Mamba is owning the camera after our latest training session! 🌟 We’re helping him conquer leash-reactivity and build confidence around people. He’s already showing amazing progress in our program! 🐶💪 Need help with similar training goals for your furry friend? Contact us today! Let’s unleash their potential! 🐾💼

✨ When crafting a program for your dog, remember: a solid lesson plan is key! 📝 Define clear learning objectives, strategize on how to teach them effectively, and prepare to troubleshoot any challenges along the way. 🐕💡 Success is just a well-planned training session away! 🐾🌟

11/06/2024

“🐾 Welcoming Raja all the way from out of state! 🌟 It warms our hearts when clients trust us with their fur babies, especially when they travel miles to see us. Raja is diving into our exclusive Stay and Train program, where he’ll be mastering new skills to enhance his role as the ultimate family companion. 🐶💼 Can’t wait to see him grow and shine! Stay tuned for his pawsome progress updates! 🐾✨ ”

26/02/2024

We are thrilled to share the progress Pippa has made in our Stay and Play program! Pippa has been actively learning valuable social skills and how to play nicely with other dogs, which was initially challenging due to some possessive and guarding behaviors. With our guidance and support, Pippa is responding positively to the training process.

We understand that changing behaviors takes time and patience, and we are committed to helping Pippa thrive. By providing her with outlets for her energy and guiding her towards the right behaviors, we are seeing significant improvements in her interactions with other dogs.

At our facility, we believe in a holistic approach to dog training that goes beyond simply reinforcing and punishing behaviors. We focus on guiding our furry friends, understanding their needs, and creating a positive environment where they can learn and grow. Pippa’s progress is a testament to the effectiveness of this approach, and we look forward to seeing her continued success in our program. Keep up the great work, Pippa!

16/02/2024

Meet Hall, a resilient rescue dog who has overcome a rough start in life. Despite his challenging past, he’s currently in our care as we work to help him overcome his reactivity towards other dogs. Hall’s behavior is rooted in fear, likely a result of his difficult past experiences. You can learn more about his journey on the American Belgian Malinois Rescue (AMBR) website.

Our approach to helping Hall involves carefully socializing him from a safe distance, allowing him to observe other dogs while creating positive experiences and playing games with him. It’s crucial to avoid subjecting him to prolonged stressful situations, instead aiming to help him realize that there is no imminent threat. Through these methods, we’re gradually working to build up his emotional resilience around other dogs.

Check out this heartwarming picture of us after one of our recent sessions. Stay tuned for more updates on Hall’s progress as we continue to work with him, and consider seeking professional guidance if you’re dealing with similar challenges with your own furry friend.

08/02/2024

Had a fantastic session with Pippa and her owners this morning! We focused on loose leash walking and the importance of teaching cooperative play. It’s essential to ensure that when engaging with our dogs and teaching them games, we are clear about the rules, objectives, and how we will instruct them. Without this framework, it simply becomes an aimless activity, leading to potential issues down the line.

For instance, when teaching fetch, if not done correctly, dogs may end up playing their own version, like keep away, causing confusion. Some people might overlook this, not realizing the impact on other aspects of their dog’s behavior. If a dog doesn’t feel comfortable returning the ball during play, will it truly respond when called off-leash? Understanding these nuances is crucial for strengthening the bond with your dog. Join in if you’re eager to enhance your relationship with your furry friend!

05/02/2024

Had a great session with Duke’s family. Here are some of the key points we went over in our first session. Have a puppy need help getting in touch?

1. Teething:
- Puppies start teething at around 3 to 4 months of age, and it can last until they are 6 to 8 months old.
- During this period, puppies experience discomfort and the urge to chew to relieve their sore gums.
- Importance: Teaching owners about teething helps them understand their puppy’s behavior and promotes the use of appropriate chew toys, preventing destructive chewing of household items. It also fosters empathy for the puppy’s discomfort during this natural phase of development.

2. Socializing:
- Socialization is the process of exposing puppies to a variety of people, animals, environments, and experiences in a positive way during their critical developmental period, usually between 3 to 14 weeks of age.
- Proper socialization can help prevent behavior problems in the future and make the puppy more adaptable and well-adjusted.
- Importance: Educating owners about socialization is crucial for fostering a well-rounded and confident adult dog. Early positive experiences with different stimuli can lead to reduced fear and aggression, better impulse control, and improved overall mental well-being for the puppy.

3. Playing:
- Play is an essential part of a puppy’s development, helping them learn important social and physical skills.
- Through play, puppies learn bite inhibition, proper interaction with other dogs and humans, and develop coordination and strength.
- Importance: Encouraging playtime with the puppy helps strengthen the bond between the owner and the pup, provides mental and physical stimulation, and teaches them appropriate behavior and boundaries. Play also contributes to the puppy’s overall happiness and well-being.

By focusing on these puppy basics, we can ensure that Duke, the Doberman puppy, receives the best start in life and grows into a well-behaved and well-adjusted adult dog.

25/12/2023

"Merry Christmas! Wishing you all the joys of the season and a peaceful, prosperous New Year. May this special time of year be filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished moments with loved ones. Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Here’s to a wonderful holiday season and a successful year ahead! Cheers to you all!"

03/10/2023

After several attempts, we managed to capture the perfect picture of our gang! 😅It wasn't easy, considering that Kovu, Z, and Daisy, the three adorable dogs in the front, were initially reactive and required socialization and training.

But with patience and dedication, we've made incredible progress with these incredible canines. They represent a delightful mix of breeds, including the majestic Anatolian Shepherd, the loyal German Shepherd, the playful Pitbulls, the strong Bully Breeds, the elegant Italian Spinone, and the agile Belgian Malinois.

Together, they form a unique and diverse pack that brings us endless joy and love.

17/08/2023

Zeno, the Pitbull, has embarked on a training journey with us to refine his manners and obedience skills. Rescued from a shelter, Zeno's owners have made a dedicated investment in his education, recognizing the importance of a solid foundation.

As trainers, our goal is to work closely with Zeno, instilling essential commands, proper behavior, and socialization. By sending Zeno to us, the owners are entrusting us with the responsibility of laying the groundwork for a well-behaved and happy dog. This initial training period allows us to establish a strong bond with Zeno and equip him with the necessary skills, setting him up for success in his future with his owners.

The benefits of this education extend far beyond the training period, as it empowers the owners to continue the training at home, fostering a harmonious and fulfilling relationship with their beloved pet.

01/08/2023

I had a fantastic session with Shadow today, focusing on his obedience training. During our session, we deliberately introduced various distractions to challenge Shadow's ability to maintain the positions we requested.

This aspect of training is crucial because it teaches the dog to follow commands even in the presence of distractions. It is important to establish this foundation early on, ensuring that the desired behaviors are well understood and executed without distractions.

By doing so, we can work towards our ultimate goal of having Shadow listen and respond to us even in highly distracting environments.

In my opinion, some trainers tend to keep dogs in training for extended periods, repeatedly practicing behaviors they have already mastered without distractions.

Unfortunately, this approach can hinder progress when distractions are eventually introduced, as the dog may assume that paying attention is only necessary in distraction-free situations.

Understanding the concept of learning momentum is vital to prevent the dog from getting stuck in their training. To achieve success, it is crucial to maintain consistent training and always have a clear end goal in mind.

Shadow was playing his favorite game Chase&Catch. Great resource to learn the game check out

If there's anything specific you need assistance with, please let us know. We're here to help! 🐶🐶

29/07/2023

Magnolia, or Maggie as we fondly call her, is a remarkable dog that has brought immense joy and love into our lives. As her parents embark on their well-deserved vacation, we have been fortunate enough to have Maggie share her time with us. In their absence, we have continued her training, witnessing her growth and intelligence firsthand.

Every moment spent with Maggie has been filled with laughter and warmth, as she effortlessly becomes a part of our family. We have grown to love her deeply, and the excitement in her eyes every time we meet assures us that the feeling is mutual.

As her parents return and we bid farewell to Maggie, we eagerly await the next time we can be in her presence again. Until then, dear Maggie, you will be missed.

02/07/2023

It seems that Bes has a special place in Gio's heart and has earned the privilege of sitting on his bed. Their bond goes way back, and they have been best friends since Gio was a young pup. Gio's preference for Bes over other pups shows that their friendship is strong and unique. It's heartwarming to see such a close and lasting connection between them.

29/06/2023

Bucky and skipper posing after our play session.

Providing constructive outlets for dogs is crucial, particularly for working dogs, to ensure their success in a family home.

Dogs, by nature, have innate instincts and energy levels that need to be channeled appropriately. Without proper outlets, dogs may exhibit problematic behaviors, such as excessive barking, destructive chewing, or aggression.

Working dogs, including breeds like herding or hunting dogs, have a heightened need for mental and physical stimulation. Engaging them in activities that align with their instincts, such as obedience training, agility courses, or scent work, not only keeps them mentally and physically fit but also strengthens the bond between the dog and its family.

Constructive outlets provide an avenue for dogs to express their natural drives, preventing frustration and boredom, and ultimately fostering a harmonious and fulfilling life within a family home.

25/06/2023

Providing constructive outlets for dogs is essential to their overall well-being and happiness. Dogs are intelligent and active animals that require mental and physical stimulation to thrive. Without appropriate outlets for their energy and natural instincts, dogs can become bored, anxious, and destructive. That's why it's important to offer them constructive activities and games that satisfy their innate needs. By providing constructive outlets, we can help dogs channel their energy in positive ways, reduce their stress levels, and strengthen our bond with them. With constructive games, we can provide our furry friends with opportunities to learn, problem-solve, and have fun while satisfying the needs of their breed.

Address

27529

Opening Hours

Monday	09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday	09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday	09:00 - 17:00
Thursday	09:00 - 17:00
Friday	09:00 - 17:00
Saturday	09:00 - 17:00
Sunday	09:00 - 17:00

Website

http://www.topdogtraining.us/

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Videos

### Finding Harmony on Walks: Overcoming Reactivity to Other DogsWalking your dog should be a joyful experience, but it can feel overwhelming if your pup reacts to barking dogs. You're not alone! This common challenge can be addressed with the right approach. #### Understanding ReactivityDogs react to barking for various reasons—fear, frustration, or a desire to play. It’s essential to tackle this behavior for enjoyable walks.#### The Importance of ControlStart by establishing control with basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "leave it." A well-trained dog can better manage distractions.#### Creating a Controlled Learning EnvironmentSet up training sessions in a quiet space to help your dog learn to stay calm around barking dogs. #### Real-Life Success: Gio's JourneyJust like Gio, who recently ignored barking dogs during training, you can achieve harmony on walks! ### Let’s Work Together!If you're struggling with a reactive dog, reach out! With the right techniques, we can turn stressful outings into joyful adventures. 🐾✨

🐾 Meet Mamba and Gio, enjoying some downtime after our training session! We’re focused on helping Mamba learn to relax around people and other dogs. Do you have a high-energy, dominant dog that pulls you in every direction and barks at every passing pup? Finding it tough to teach them to stay calm in stimulating situations can be frustrating, especially if previous attempts haven’t worked out. This is where a professional trainer can make all the difference. Look for someone who understands your breed, knows what motivates them, and can guide you in managing their behavior effectively. It’s crucial to choose a trainer who can clearly explain their methods and the reasoning behind them. Are you ready to invest the time and effort to help your dog live their best life? If so, reach out to us! We’re here to help you unlock your dog’s true potential and achieve your training goals. Let’s work together! 🐶✨#germanshepherd #twc #trainingwithoutconflict

Exciting times ahead! Our trial is coming up in December, and we’re putting in the work to prepare. Wishing everyone a productive training session! Let’s make the most of it! 🐾💪 #SportDogs #GermanShepherd

Today was a great day spent working on perfecting some routine elements with Gio. Although we still have a long journey ahead before our year-end training goals, we are steadily making progress. Making mistakes is all part of the learning process, and I’m grateful for the fantastic mentors like Frans and Jackie who are guiding us every step of the way. Huge thanks to all the club members for their unwavering support – this sport truly is a team effort, and we are fortunate to be part of such an incredible group. #IGP #sportdog #Grateful

I will miss these furry friends. By Monday, everyone will have returned to their loving families. Training these dogs and working on various skills with them has been a rewarding experience. Saying goodbye is always the toughest part of this business. I take comfort in knowing that we have done an excellent job ensuring that they have acquired the skills needed for their families to enjoy them as much as I have during these past few weeks of training. #dogtraining #goodbyes #rewardingexperience #furryfriends #lovemyjob #germanshepherd #australianshepherd #greatswissmountaindog

🐾🌟 Walking Roxy - Celebrating Progress! 🌟🐾Every step forward with Roxy is a victory, and today, we're thrilled to share a glimpse of her remarkable progress with all of you. Walking a reactive dog like Roxy is no easy feat, but with patience, guidance, and unwavering commitment, we've been able to witness incredible transformations.Before embarking on any training program, it's crucial to understand that every dog is unique, and their genetics play a significant role in shaping their behavior. We believe in setting the right prerequisites, ensuring that we have a solid foundation built on trust and a strong bond with our furry friends. This forms the cornerstone of our approach, enabling us to provide the support and guidance needed to help Roxy—and dogs like her—move forward.Reactivity in dogs can be complex, and it often stems from various underlying factors. Understanding the root of this reactivity is key to success, and it's a journey that demands empathy, understanding, and a deep connection with our canine companions.In the video, you'll witness Roxy navigating her walk with newfound confidence, demonstrating the progress she's made in overcoming her challenges. While she used to struggle in the presence of people, dogs, and even cars, her remarkable strides are a testament to the power of patience, positive reinforcement, and a whole lot of love.We know firsthand the unique challenges that come with caring for a reactive dog, and we're here to offer our support to anyone who might be facing similar experiences. If you have a reactive dog and are seeking guidance, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can help your furry friend embark on their own journey of growth and transformation.Remember, every small step forward is a triumph, and with the right approach, understanding, and support, progress is always within reach. Let's continue to celebrate the incredible strides made by Roxy and countless other dogs, inspiring hope and paving the w