Why Train Your Dog?

Whenever we work with people, we try and emphasize that training is not about getting your dog to "do tricks." Training your dog allows you to show your expectations to your dog. It also helps you develop a line of communication.

We hate the word "train" because it has so many definitions, and none of them really fit our philosophy. We prefer the word "integrate" because it implies that you're working with your dog in a partnership to help him fit into your life. It may be just semantics, but it's an important distinction. Having a dog is to have a partnership. And the only way you can get that partnership is to learn how to communicate with each other.

We often say that getting a dog is a bit like getting a foreign exchange student (do they still do that?) When a dog comes into your home, chances are they have no idea what to do or what to expect in any situation. Your dog may not know that you don't want him to grab Grandpa's cane and run out the back door. She may not understand that standing on the table is a no-no. It's your job, as the host family, to explain to your new exchange student that we don't celebrate a great dinner by throwing our dishes into a fireplace. It's also your job to explain to your dog that jumping on people when they come in the door is not the best choice they have.

When you welcome a dog into your home, you have to show him the ropes. This is where training comes in. Training isn't about bending a dog's will to your command. It's about teaching you and your dog to communicate. Your exchange student speaks Labrador, but you only speak English. Your dog can learn English, and you can learn Labrador, but you have to work at it together.