To truly understand dogs and how to train them, it is important to think outside the Skinner Box. Of course, a clear understanding and proper applications of Learning Theory is fundamental to sound dog training. However, psychology is NOT the only scientific field that applies to dog training. Far from it. Continue reading
As a scientist, I find myself in the curious culture that revolves around pet dogs. I hear “science-based dog training” and am mystified by the context it’s used. The term “science”, which is a very broad, all-encompassing term, has been misappropriated to represent a very narrow training approach. In the pet dog training culture, “science-based dog training” is synonymous with “positive reinforcement training”. This is not accurate in so many ways and creates confusion and frustration for everyone, especially for our sweet little dogs. Continue reading
A very popular term inserted in many dog training claims is “science-based dog training”. The best dog training approach to help dogs become the dog of your dreams should be science-based. But, an important question to ask is “Which sciences are included in science-based dog training?” Does it really matter? Most definitely. Best training practices are supported by solid scientific research. Continue reading
This Friday, 20 October 2017, Dr. K will discuss science-based dog training approaches. Being a science-based approach is a claim of many dog training philosophies. However, exactly which science ? Is the training approach based solely on psychology and learning behavior? What about biology? What about physics? Continue reading
Asheville, NC is a bastion of alternative practices and ideas. To add to this vibrant alternative community, a local veterinarian and a biologist/dog trainer are joining forces to present Healing & Heeling the Dog Within, a series of educational talks on a favorite topic of many – DOGS! Continue reading
In late May 2017, two very lucky dogs started the New Leash on Life (NLOL) program near Asheville, NC. The pups have been in training for a little over one month and their progress is already obvious. Before describing their training progress, the doggy participants in the NLOL program have changed. Originally, the program included Mocha and Anna White. However, Anna White was replaced with another dog – his name is Diesel. Continue reading
On Tuesday, 23 May 2017, the Asheville Tourists are inviting dogs to attend Doggies at the Diamond. Game time is 7PM. A coupon for the event is available at Patton Avenue Pet Company. Our therapy dog Cognac will be heading out to the game to practice her training skills and enjoy the fun. We take every opportunity to practice training skills in all types of unique situations. We encourage any dog training students to attend the game Tuesday to cheer on the Asheville Tourists, practice their training skills and enjoy the fun! Please note that it will be extra challenging because untrained dogs will be in attendance too.
Tucked away near a small town just outside Asheville, NC is a correctional facility for women. The facility offers all types of vocational classes to encourage the growth and development of their inmates. A new dog training program is starting at the facility. You may have heard of this program – New Leash on Life. These programs have been successful throughout the country. The program involves prison inmates learning to train rescue dogs. At the Asheville facility, two lucky dogs are starting the program tomorrow. Continue reading
Imagine you and your dogs are the talk of the neighborhood…..for all the right reasons. Imagine your dog looks at you and listens to what you ask, the first time and every time, even off-leash. Your dog has excellent manners and their unruly behaviors are no longer an embarrassment. Every dog owner wants to reach these goals and enjoy the benefits of having a thriving partnership with their trained dog. The real question is how to achieve these training goals. What is the best tactic or training scenario? Continue reading
Do you believe life with dogs is limiting or liberating? Does your dog give you more freedom to do what you want to do? Or, does your dog get in the way of your freedom? Granted, if you are a big world traveler and away from home for long periods of time, a dog may not fit your lifestyle. Other than being a world traveler, does your dog limit your freedom or liberate you to be more confident to achieve your goals, no matter how simple or complex? Continue reading