Archive for the ‘Dog Training Business’ Category
Wacky Walker
December 20th, 2009
Will the Wacky Walkr dog leash stop your dog from pulling?
I’m always a little skeptical when someone says – hey look at this new tool, its guaranteed to work! But, with my good intentions, I contacted the company who created the WAcky Walkr and said, I’d like to give this a try.
They helped me decide on trying two sizes, the original Wacky Walkr Large, and the Urban Wacky Walkr large. I figured I didn’t want to try out a coupler just yet.
When UPS showed up with my new dog leashes, I immediately took my dogs out without harnesses or gentle leaders on. I have two large dogs, one who will pull through any device no matter what and one who heels really nicely until he sees a bird nearby. I took out the Urban walker and put it on my puller dog. She immediately ran to the end of the leash, and with no effort on my part, returned back to me and then sat nicely. Interesting I thought….
I went and got the other dog with the same lead. He didn’t want to pull so I had to trick him into doing so. He hit the end and backed up as usual, no real effort on my part.
I figured the real test would be some of my dog training clients. I talked them all into trying it. They thought it looked weird, but were good sports. All the dogs responded fabulously to it. Most of the owners loved it and can’t wait for me to get some in for them to buy.
So, my review of the Wacky Walkr – I think its great. If you have a dog who pulls moderatly, this can really help with training and it takes all the pressure and jerking away. You can use it easily with the Easy Walk Harness too. Give it a try, and send us your review!
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Dog Training Books
December 20th, 2009
Dog Training Books and Reviews
Below is a list of our favorite dog training books.
The other end of the leash
On talking terms with dogs
Culture Clash
Dont shoot the dog
Dog Training Jobs
December 20th, 2009
Finding a dog training job can be quite difficult. Many dog trainers prefer to open their own business which has its challenges as well. To find a job, first find a local dog trainer and see if they are in need of an assistant. Often times you may start out volunteering but its a great way to get your foot in the door.
If you are a dog trainer looking to hire, please send us your listing or post a comment on this page so others can find your dog training job.
Dog Obedience Competitions
December 12th, 2009
Every dog is completely different and needs to prepare for dog shows in different ways. My last dog was a bit more high strung and he would stress out at shows. Exercising him in the morning would help tremendously. I would take him and retrieve for long distances trying to get that nice serotonin flowing. With Nitro, he would have no energy left if I tried to exercise him. This is a night time show so we may go for a walk this morning.
AKC Dog shows are interesting places. Now this is an obedience show and it doesn’t have much crating room so I wont be bringing my crate but I will be prepared to leave him in the car. Its not warm by any means, but not too cold so he will be fine. If it were too cold or hot I wouldn’t leave him out there.
We will also bring water, treats, leashes, collars = I always bring backups just in case something happens with one my leashes or collars – you never know!
I will practice will him a bit this morning, heavy rewards on heeling, then when we first get to the show I will do a quick practice with him and then he’ll go back in the car. Prior to entering the ring, usually about 20 minutes ahead of time, I will get him out and bring him inside to get him to chill out. When we are next up I do a quick heeling pattern, a stand stay, some fronts and finishes. I try to keep it high paced, fun and rewarding. This is what works for us at a dog show. Good luck in your dog obedience competitions!
One last thought, bring water and snacks for yourself. You dont want to go hungry and thirsty!
How to Become a Dog Trainer
December 9th, 2009
So you want to become a dog trainer. There are a few different types of dog training schools.
The first is an online type program where you do research, read books, and perform different projects and report back to someone. Some of these even offer exams and so forth. These are good programs for learning dog training theory. Take a look at www.casinstitute.com They offer several degree type programs and provide an excellent source for learning theory and behavior which is extremely important in becoming a dog trainer. Raising Canine also has a professional dog training course online – read more about it here.
The second type is a dog training school that you actually attend for a period of time. As a student, you will learn theory as well as get hands on dog training. A few that we can recommend is the SF SPCA with Jean Donaldson – they have a one week for more experienced dog trainers and six week program for more basic hands on. The second is Pat Millers Peaceable Paws program in Hagerstown MD. This is also a hands on program that will guide you in becoming a dog trainer.
For a shorter program take a look at www.dogsofcourse.com. This offers a great learning experience combined with hands on. This program is called the Instructors Training Program. Dogs of Course also offers continuing education seminars as well. This is an excellent experience.
There are many different ways in which people become a dog trainer.
There are many different ways in which people become a dog trainer. Most importantly becoming a dog training professional requires years of education and lots of hands on experience. There are many schools, seminars, and other learning opportunties to explore. If you need more hands on, try working with an existing trainer as an apprentice, or even just volunteering with rescue groups and shelters. They can always use the help!
One on One by Nicole Wilde Our Review: Excellent Book!
Have you always wanted to do one-on-one, private training, but didn’t know how to go about it? This guide is like having a friend explain it all!
Our Review: If you are considering doing or already do any private lessons, this is a must have. It contains lots of great scripts and questions you should ask anyone you are going to meet with as well as some awesome contracts and handouts. It gets 5 Stars from us! If you are working on becoming a dog trainer, put this on your list of books to read. Internships Another great way to go is through apprenticeships or internships. This involves locating a local dog trainer and asking them if you can begin to assist with their classes and lessons. Its important to tell them you are interested in learning how to become a dog trainer. Often times not only will you get experience but you may wind up with a dog training job as well. This is a great way to go for plenty of hands on experience with dogs. This in conjunction with a school or attending lots of seminars will provide the experience and knowledge you need. Dog Trainer Certification : Becoming a certified dog trainer There is a program offered through the CCPDT. That is the certification council of pet dog trainers. This is a unique program which one day will hopefully include various levels. For now, there is the introduction level which allows trainers with 5 years of experience and a minimum number of hours to take a test on basic dog training. For more information visit the councils website at www.ccpdt.org There is a
Popular Dog Training Books
As always, reading is a great way to learn. Dogwise has the most popular dog training books on the market. Visit this page which lists some of the top dog training books.