Training Philosophy

Arie's training process starts with thorough information gathering and behavioral observation with you and your pup. From there, she works with her clients to develop achievable goals that benefit both you and your dog(s).

 

In designing training plans, Arie takes a cooperative approach with clients, giving many options for training and behavioral solutions. Her unique background in biology and education drives her training process with clients and dogs alike. 

 

Relationship-focused Training Prioritizes:

• Educating owners on dog behavior, development, emotion, canine body language, etc.

• Understanding puppy needs across all developmental stages

• Determining the underlying "why" behind the dog's behavior

• Improving communication and understanding of your dog

• Strengthening the emotional bond between the human and their dog

• Training replacement behaviors for undesirable ("problem") behaviors

• Designing enrichment exercises for mental stimulation and wellness

• Enacting management to interrupt behavioral cycles

• Using force-free behavior modification to achieve lasting behavioral changes

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Using rewards during training

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Our reward-based training (or positive reinforcement) sessions use treats, toys, affection, and anything else that your pup enjoys to reinforce desired behaviors. Unlike "old school" training methods that use fear, pain, and/or intimidation, reward-based training is effective, fun, and strengthens the relationship between humans and their dogs.

The concept of positive reinforcement is simple yet extremely powerful: dogs are more likely to repeat behaviors that lead to an enjoyable outcome. For example, a dog that is given a treat for sitting, is more likely to sit on cue in the future because they enjoyed the treat.

 

This simple principle can be applied to teach countless skills. Furthermore, dogs that are trained using rewards not only learn faster and more effectively, but also form a stronger bond with their handler. In contrast, dogs that are trained using traditional aversive methods that include pain and fear learn slower, have increased levels of stress, and are more likely to develop aggression and fear-based issues
 

Reward-based training is supported by scientific research and is utilized by respected organizations and training schools such as the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, the Pet Professional Guild, the Karen Pryor Academy, the Academy of Dog Trainers, and numerous others.