POSITIVE TRAINING METHODS USED IN ALL TRAINING CLASSES AND FOR BEHAVIOURAL MODIFICATION.
 
How we train our dogs and the methods we use is vitally important.  There is now a huge amount of amazing research into how mammals including dogs learn (and yes us humans too!).  All the training methods used during our classes at Dog Sense are positive, reward-based, kind and force free.   The emphasis is on keeping dogs calm and focused, so they can make cognitive decisions which lay down solid foundations of correct training, and teach the dogs the behaviours they need to in order to live happily  alongside us humans.
 
Training dogs correctly, particularly when altering behaviours as part of a Behavioural Modification is a gradual and slow process.  We have to work at each dogs individual pace, letting the dog dictate when they are ready to move onto the next stage.  There are no quick fixes, it takes application and patience, but the rewards when your dog understands are worth the input!
 
Of course there are times when day to day  life is so busy that we get impatient, frustrated and stressed,  and at times we are  not  always the perfect dog handlers we like to be.  However, if your dog has learnt through positive interactions with humans, is happy, balanced and content they can weather the storms that coexisting with humans invariably bring.  My training enables dogs to be more self-reliant, have more self-control and be more resilient, this makes happy relaxed dogs eager to interact with humans.
 
By training with the IMDT (The Institute of Modern Dog Trainers) I abide by their code of ethics.
Code Of Ethics
All Members of The IMDT agree to abide by The IMDT Code of Ethics: 

• To train dogs professionally with honesty, integrity and in the best interest of the dog, owner, the public and The IMDT.
• Actively provide and promote force-free training methods and actively reject any methods or equipment that may cause physical or mental discomfort.
• Continue Professional development through books, workshops, courses & seminars.
• Respect the privacy and confidentiality of clients.
• Carry suitable professional insurance including public liability.
• Members agree to work within their professional limits and agree to refer owners with needs beyond those limits to a suitable professional.
• Provide and promote science based, proven dog training principles to a high, professional standard.
• Avoid positive punishment as a tool for training dogs.
• Accept IMDT Committee decisions as final after appeals process.
• Proactively benefit dogs and dog owners.
• Proactively promote The IMDT.

 
It is proven that dogs do not retain learning if trained using forceful aversive methods, and harsh equipment.  Yes you might get a quick fix, but the dog’s brain will not retain the information, so in times of heightened arousal of stress the dog will forget all the training. Plus using positive punishment destroys the relationship between handler and dog, it forever ruins the trust that should form the basis of a strong working bond between dog and handler.