Blog
Our Training Methods
Our Training Methods and Philosophy on Dogs A positive approach to Drive-Training (no e-collars or harsh corrections) We use the primal instincts built into the canine mind to channel his drive to the owner. Emotional and physical wellness through attention to the WHOLE dog: His nervous system, physical health, mental health, etc. (see Polyvagal Theory by Stephen Porges) Movement-Based Training: Behavior is movement, and a dog’s movement is dictated by his drive, therefore, if we engage their drive, we can modify their behavior. Relationship-Based Training: The owner is the answer to any stress the dog is facing Play-Based Training for...
Your Dog Is Your Mirror
Of course it's normal to get irritated, frustrated, or even feel disappointment when we work with our dogs. Dogs do not speak our language, so it can be frustrating trying to communicate with them. In addition to this, I would say MOST dogs have some quirky behavioral issue that gets on their owner's nerves. Some dogs even have severe emotional traumas that cause them to be fearful, reactive, and even aggressive. The question I want you ask you, is: Can you love your dog exactly the way he is, RIGHT NOW? Can you love your dog with all his flaws,...
New Obedience Class Starts April 15th
Natural Obedience: 4 Week Session Starting April 15th This class takes place at The Chattery. Register here: Natural Obedience 1800 Rossville Avenue, Suite 108 Chattanooga, TN 37408 USA (map) In this four week course, you will learn what truly motivates your dog and how to train obedience behaviors using their natural drive. You will use food, toys, and praise to shape the following commands: Sit, Down, Stay, Place, and Recall. This class is for dogs 6 months and older. We will meet once per week for 4 weeks, and each class runs for 60 minutes. Class dates are April...
Your Dog is Talking Smack and You're Not Doing Anything About It
The Problem: Your dog is talking smack at my dog, my dog reacts, your dog gets even more amped up, the neighbor's dog notices and starts barking. Now we have two lunging/barking dogs and a whole neighborhood bark party going on. But WHY must it be like this? Things We Must Understand: 1. Dog's read body language from far away! Before getting anywhere close, they have assessed the posture, tone, tenseness, quality of movement, and intention of another dog (or person). This happens in an instant! 2. Your dog is better at reading body language than you are. Dog's are...
What is Canine Resistance Training?
After discovering Canine Resistance Training in 2018 through another dog trainer, I knew right away that I wanted to start both my dogs on this program. Not only have they gotten in great physical shape (at ages 10 and 13), but it's actually their emotional well-being that has seen the greatest benefit. My whole training philosophy revolves around the dog's want, and often real need, to do constructive work. Ashley's program strikes the crucial balance between actual work and a fun work-out activity that provides loads of bonding between dog and owner. The best, most concise description of Canine Resistance...