Force-Free Training

What is force free training?

         It’s simple. The training is based on a successful loving relationship with your dog. We believe that dogs learn more from love than they do from fear. Most training techniques are rooted in fear. Pack leaders, shock collars, choke chains, jerking leashes, spray bottles and cans full of pennies all are meant to intimidate the dogs. We prefer positive reinforcement and big love hugs.
         Communication and positive reinforcement are the keys to stopping unacceptable behavior and creating a loving, well mannered dog. As much as we would like to believe that our dogs think like we do, they have very different cognitive abilities and communication skills. Not better or worse, just different. There is no need to physically dominate or use any sort of physical force or fear to train your dog.
         Brian Willis, of Gofetch&Barkalott, teaches force-free training techniques in many homes. His private lessons afford you the opportunity to have a highly focused learning experience. Let’s face it, you will learn just as much as your dog. You will learn to create a loving partnership with your dog, instead of a master/servant relationship, by using at-play relationship based training techniques. These techniques were pioneered by the wildlife trainers at SeaWorld Adventure Parks. How do you teach a Killer Whale to jump through hoops? With a choke chain?    BTW - We think Orca whales belong in the ocean, not a swimming pool.
         By using a psychological approach you can establish proper roles, acceptable and un-acceptable behavior all with love and understanding. Training your dog will actually create a solid mutually beneficial relationship based upon respect, trust and  affection.
         It is worth mentioning that Brian Willis’ techniques also work on kids!

     Let’s be honest. Nobody likes a randy, rude and raucous dog. No matter how cute it is! As dog owners, it is our responsibility to nurture a confident, content and well-mannered dog. We hold these expectations for our children, yet diminish our responsibility when it comes to our dogs. Shame on us.
    By using our force-free method you will be able to control your dog and teach them basic obedience commands. You will no longer feel self conscious, having to constantly apologize for your loving dog. He pulls on the leash. She digs holes to China. He runs away at the drop of a biscuit. She wants to eat other dogs. Why not set the dog up for success? No creature, even a dog, likes to be yelled at.
    Brian Willis will teach you how to enable your dog to sit, lie down, walk with a loose leash and come to you when asked. And he will teach you to do it in a way that creates a more loving and mutually beneficial relationship. Incorporating communication, intuition and observation into his techniques allow you to focus on the more rewarding aspects of your relationship with your dog.  Those of love, trust and affection. We adore big love hugs!

     Everyone knows a problem dog. It may belong to a neighbor. It may belong to a relative. We tell ourselves that it really is a nice dog except for the aggression, barking, separation anxiety, hyper-activity, fears, phobias, chewing, digging and jumping. Beyond that, it’s a great dog.

Hmm…….

     Dogs can develop serious behavioral issues for a multitude of reasons. These reasons may be bio-chemical. They may be environmental. They may be genetic. Behavioral issues are the reason that Dog Rescue and Adoption organizations are so busy, in fact, overflowing with dogs.  Many people are daunted by the challenge of confronting and handling a troubled dog that is causing trouble.

     An extensive in-home assessment is the first step in developing an individualized behavior modification plan to address your dog's behavioral problems. Treatment varies significantly based on the individual needs of you and your dog. Each situation is different because each dog has it’s own personality and influences. We work with all breeds and ages. You will learn how to reduce and prevent dog problems toward people, animals, children and other circumstances that can cause a threat.  All done with the heartfelt interests of you, and your dog, in mind.

     Started in 1989, the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Program is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. The Canine Good Citizen Program is a two-part program that stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. All dogs who pass the 10-step CGC test may receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club.
       Many dog owners choose Canine Good Citizen training as the first step in training their dogs. The Canine Good Citizen Program lays the foundation for other AKC activities such as obedience, agility, tracking, and performance events. As you work with your dog to teach the CGC skills, you'll discover the many benefits and joys of training your dog. Training will enhance the bond between you and your dog. Dogs that have a solid obedience education are a joy to live with. They respond well to household routines, have good manners in the presence of people and other dogs, and they fully enjoy the company of the owner who took the time to provide training, intellectual stimulation, and a high quality life. Dog owners hoping to train their dogs for therapy or service work will need to start with the AKC CGC certification. This recognition is a prerequisite for public therapy and service animal placement.
       Brian Willis, Founder of Gofetch&Barkalott, is recognized by the American Kennel Club as a Canine Good Citizen Program Evaluator. He can assist you with training, as well as facilitate testing and certification for qualified dogs.

     Socialization and puppy training are critical as puppyhood is the most important and crucial time in your dog's development. During this time, a puppy learns about the world in which he lives. Everything is a first impression. Everything is a new experience. From these first experiences a puppy’s memory is developed. A properly socialized puppy is well adjusted and makes a good lifelong companion. It is neither frightened by, nor aggressive toward, anyone or anything it would normally meet in day to day living. An un-socialized dog is untrustworthy and an unwanted liability.
    Puppies are part genetics and part environmental experiences. A reputable breeder has done their part in producing puppies with strong, stable genetic predispositions. Learning during this socialization period is permanent. The puppy carries those first impressions throughout life. It is critical that these socialization experiences be positive.
    Shaping a puppy during the socialization period is all up to us. With our love and understanding a puppy will develop to its full potential. Nothing less should be acceptable. It is the best chance for a dog to have a long healthy life in a loving home.