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Dog Walker

Frequently Asked Questions

What is your training methodology?

We want to create strong and lasting relationships between human and canine family members. I employ positive reinforcement and reward-based methods that have been proven to align with how dogs naturally think and problem solve.

What makes Wishbone Trinity Dog Training different than others?

Our mission!  We aren't just training dogs.  We are focused on Family and Community.  With public events and forums there are more ways than ever to get the basics without spending a dime. We are always looking for the most up to date information on the best practices and products for our furry best friends.  For us, dogs are friends, family, and so much more.

When is the best time to socialize my puppy?

8-13 weeks!  Honestly as soon as you get your puppy you should be looking for opportunities to socialize.  If you have family or friends that have fully vaccinated dogs, start there.  We also host puppy socials, your first one is free! Look at our calendar for the next puppy party!

If I were to take one thing from your training what would it be?

Eyes, if you don't have your dog's eyes, you don't have your dog.  Dogs are fascinating animals, and every year we are finding more and more ways that dogs set themselves apart from other animals.  From things like understanding that a picture is a representation of a thing, to processing human speech in a startlingly similar way we do.  If you check out the link for Puppy Dog Eyes in Grow, Play, LEARN section, you will be taken to a podcast where experts talk about how important eye contact is for dogs.  It is funny because I often struggle with new dog owners in convincing them that their dogs are not children and that we should treat them like dogs, yet every time I search the internet I see more and more articles on how dogs are so similar to us!

My dog is old, can I still train?

Yes!  Old dogs can learn new tricks!  It can also be a good way to keep your older dog's energy up.  Many times in my experience have I seen an older dog in  a class out preform the younger dogs, keep in mind that you should not try to teach senior dogs skills that may require extensive strength and flexibility.  Also, if you are thinking about training because your senior dog is showing some behavior changes, consult your veterinarian first as there may be physical or mental issues that should be treated by a vet first.  Once you are cleared by your vet, sign up for the adult class or private training!

My dog keeps misbehaving even when tell him "No!"

We never say "no" to our dogs out of frustration, in fact they do not understand reprimands at all.  See when dogs do dog things, that is their natural behavior, and since dogs don't speak human, we can't tell them why what they did was wrong.  In fact with Wishbone we try to remove "no" from our vocabulary, instead we use "leave it" which is a positive command that our dog is happy to follow!

Do I need any tools to be ready for class?

Each class has a mandatory and optional list in the Resources section, be sure to check it and make sure you have everything!

How do I get my dog to stop chewing the furniture, and everything else in the house?

This is actually something that is best conditioned at the same time as potty training, but the same principle can be applied at any time.  What you should do is collect all your dig's toys and put them in a laundry basket or box that your dog can easily access.  From here you always make sure the toys are picked up and put back in the basket after use.  The idea is getting your dog to know to go to the basket every time they want to chew on something.  It is a good idea to sneak bully sticks in there as an extra incentive for the dog to check the basket.  Its useful to do this alongside potty training when you are already restricting the space your puppy has access to.  This is a very good behavior to condition early on.

My dog bites my hand when I give them treats, how do I stop this?

Very simply!  Just retain the treat while he is biting and wait for a lick, then give the treat.  No need for a command prompt or gesture, just be consistent with that and very soon your dog will stop biting the hand that feeds it!

Now that I am spending more time at home, my dog is acting out, what can I do?

Well a great start is to have a routine, early morning exercise is often the best start then the first meal, then bathroom after 30 minutes to an hour depending on your dog's age.  Take a few breaks throughout the day as spend some time with your dog, do a training session, this will exercise the brain too.  Dogs like structure and routine so provide it!

I take my dog to the park to exercise, but my dog is still hyper when we get home.  Why?

First make sure you are matching exercise with your breed, if you don't know a good amount of time use the contact feature and send a message with your dog's breed and the question.  Second, a common mistake people make; is to take their dog out and play with them until they start panting really heavy and maybe lay down.  Instead, recognize the first few times this happens your dog just needs a break.  Take 5 or 10 then go another round.

Jonathan, I heard you got a new puppy, what are you doing for her training?

You heard correct I did get a beautiful Border Collie named Calarina.  To answer your question, the exact same things you are!  Puppy socials and puppy classes (not taught by me!).  Just because I am a dog trainer doesn't mean I use secret squirrel methods, all of my dogs go to puppy classes for socialization training and distraction help.  Now it is true that I add a lot of my own work at home, but so should everyone.  Socialization is so very crucial for your puppy, and I can not stress that enough.  All the knowledge in the world can't replace a good ol' fashioned puppy parties.

Okay, but besides puppy classes, any tips and tricks?

Haha! A good trainer never reveals his secrets! Wait, yes he does. No real secrets here, at home I do spend a lot of time with her, though my training sessions are short and there is lots of play.  I guess the real secret is what I tell you guys all the time, even when we're not training, we're training!  I am constantly using my marker word(and clicker when possible) for good behavior, every time she goes potty outside, every time I get eye contact when I am trying to communicate, every time she comes when called.  Every behavior big or small that I want to see more of, I mark.

I have a harmless Chiweenie, do I still need training?

Yes! A thousand times yes!  A hazard of being a dog trainer, especially one that works with behavior issues, is you are gonna get bit.  It is a fact. I have worked with dogs of all shapes and sizes, and many different professions, including military.  The dog breeds I have been bit by the most are not GSDs not Malinois, not Pit Bulls, but Chihuahuas and Dachshunds, and you have the combo.  Remember just because your dog is little doesn't mean you can neglect training or worse, not respect your dog.

I don't have a dog but am thinking about getting one, advice?

Yes, get a dog.  Seriously though, do not make the mistake of getting a dog breed that you like the look of, solely based on the merit of its looks.  Many dogs are surrendered to shelters because people get a breed that they aren't prepared for or doesn't match their lifestyle.  Make sure you research the traits of the breeds you are interested in and select the breed that matches your desired size and energy level.  Remember TIME is the factor that is most important not space.  A high energy dog will not care if they live in a mansion or an apartment, if they don't get exercise outside, they will act out.  Never let someone discourage you from getting a dog because of the space you have.  If you have the time, that is what matters.  Finally, think about getting two.

I have a dog, but I think  I should get another.  How do I chose the right one?

Adopt!!!!!  This is the perfect option for you!  There are so many benefits to adopting rather than searching out for another puppy.  Often times the easy answer is get the same breed, but that is not necessary.  What is important is that you get a breed that matches the energy level of the dog you have.

What treats do you use for training?

I use Kiwi Kitchens Freeze Dried training treats and Pupford Freeze Dried training treats.  Also Ziwi Dog Food, but as treats!

Kennel/Crate training, what should I do?

First I recommend getting a soft crate.  Second, whether or not you are the type to use a crate religiously or to never really use one at all (like me), it is important you get your dog crate trained.  The best way to do this is to set up the crate in a "populated" area of your residence, a place where you spend a lot of time.  It is a good idea to do this early on while potty training it will make both go much faster.  A good practice is to leave your puppy in the crate unless you are actively engaging or the puppy needs to eat or go to the bathroom.  I eventually put away my crate and hardly every use it, but getting crate training done early can reduce the  chances of unwanted problems like separation anxiety.

You say I need three different leashes, why?

As you will hear me say often, "even when we're not training, we're training."  The three leashes are used to condition your dog to understand inherently what the plan for the walk is.  If you have the 6-8ft lead, this is a controlled deliberate walk, perhaps we will do some leash training, but mainly this is a focus driven walk.  If it is the retractable lead, its a vacation walk, and if it is the 30-50ft lead then there will be off leash time.

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