Our Process
While there is no one cut & dry curriculum or path that will guarantee success, our process is based in scientific principles of behavior change. We have successfully trained 100s of dogs using this general outline, with some variations to accommodate each pup's unique learning needs. We love to see our owners be highly involved in the process and ask questions seeking to understand concepts. Our goal is to 'work ourselves out of a job', meaning that we want you to understand not only what we are doing with your dog, but why we are doing it so that you can be best equipped to handle the curveballs that await you in the future.
Pair
Particularly for our intensive programs such as Day Training and Board & Train, the first priority is assisting each dog in decompressing from the natural stress of coming into a new environment. During this time, we assess your dog's preferences to determine what they find reinforcing, and do our best to pair our presence with the availability of that resource, whether it be food or interactive play.
Proof
A main focus of our programs is 'function over form', meaning that at each step, we work with the understanding that your dog's new set of skills is meant to help them live fulfilled lives with you. A dog that can pop into a beautiful heel position, but cannot walk peacefully on leash with their human counterparts will typically live a more well-rounded, fulfilled life as a part of the activities that you enjoy. During our proofing phase, dogs are spending time out on field trips in locations that are uniquely meaningful to the life that you want to live with them! This can range from relaxing under the table of your favorite dog-friendly eatery, to feeling the sea breeze blow through their fur running down the boardwalk, and everything in between. Your trainer will mindfully select the locations that your pup will go on field trips to ensure you have the tools you need to succeed!
Teach
During the teaching phase, we are utilizing whatever prompts your pup deems necessary to be successful as we guide them through building a new repertoire of behaviors. We are primarily using positive reinforcement and luring, and always looking to be your dog's 'YES man'!
Support
We are here to support you as you navigate your new life with your dog. We encourage owners to reach out with any questions right away so that we can assist in a smooth transition of skills as you work to maintain what your pup has learned! Alumni of our programs are always welcomed to board with us, so training is refreshed while you are away instead of regressing from being left with a sitter not versed in use of the techniques.
Condition
During the conditioning phase, we are introducing new stimuli along with the behaviors that your dog has previously shown proficient understanding in. We start each dog on a slip lead, then transition to an expertly sized Herm-Sprenger prong collar. For dogs whom are working towards off leash freedom, we take additional time to condition state of the art e-collar utilizing the most modern technology available.