Casey Ray is a nationally recognized dog trainer whose established method and customized instruction offer a well rounded solution for dogs of all ages, breeds, and types.
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New and Improved
While spring is typically a season for change and renewal for many people, we decided to do some changing this fall along with the leaves! We’ve refreshed the look of our brand from top to bottom, including our new user friendly website at www.caseyraystl.com. We’re so excited to offer a new online RSVP system to make your life easier when scheduling Puppy Preschool or Lifetime Group classes. We’ll even text you a reminder so that you don’t forget! We’ve added some incredible new staff members who are ready to help you help your best friend become the companion you’ve always wanted.
A few highlights are:
Locations in West County and St. Charles County
We’re quickly becoming “The Place for Puppy Preschool” 4 weeks- $75 (Every Saturday at 9 am-RSVP online).
Boarding services supervised overnight and Sundays (Cottleville only).
Day Camp is trainer supervised during all play and available M-F (Cottleville only).
With safety being the utmost of importance, our Day Camp yards max out at 20 per day. You can forget about Casey Ray’s ever becoming one of those places where they have 50-100 dogs, instability all over the place, and usually overseen by random dog lovers: That’s not for us.
Upcoming AKC Canine Good Citizen classes.
Our new website is now up and running, and we wanted to share the updates and user friendly additions that have been added for your convenience.
Online reservation system
Group class RSVP’s
FAQ
Q & A section with trainer feedback.
“In memory” page featuring the dogs that have touched all of our lives.
Check out our new website, and give us a call if you have any questions or would like a consultation so that we can find out more about you and your dog. We hope you’ll love the changes at Casey Ray’s as much as we do!
Casey
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Puppy Biting and How to Stop It
One of the most common complaints we hear when it comes to young puppies is that they're consistently biting. Puppies nip for many reasons, including to play or get attention and during teething. The good news is that puppy biting is actually very easy to stop because we know what the puppy wants which is to play and chew. The best way to curb puppy biting is to provide other acceptable methods of play and outlets for chewing. To prevent biting and nipping you can:
Always be ready with a toy when you're interacting and playing with your puppy so she has the option to make a good choice. Make the toy more exciting than your hands!
Exercise your puppy! Remember that a tired puppy is a good puppy. Daily training sessions can really wear your pup out!
On the flip side, also make sure your puppy is getting enough rest. Just like a human toddler, a tired puppy can become cranky. Naps and crate time throughout the day has many benefits including aiding in potty training!
Have lots of chew toys available to get your pup through teething.
Don't leave children unattended with the new puppy. Teach the kids not to run and scream from a nipping puppy. Calm behaviors on our end creates calm behaviors in our dogs!
Remember that whenever your puppy does start biting and nipping, to remove all attention and provide a toy or chew instead. Don't forget to join us on Saturday mornings for our Puppy Preschool class to get your puppy started off on the right track for life! Call us today at 314-300-4660 for more information. Check us out on Facebook at
http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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Choosing the Right Breed
Thinking about getting a new puppy or perhaps adopting an older dog soon? It's important to consider what breed or breeds you might be looking for and then research which of those might fit best into your lifestyle. Some of the things you might to think about are:
Living situation. Whether you have a house or live in an apartment or condo is something to think about. If you're renting, are you allowed to keep a dog and is there a size restriction. If you live with others, make sure everyone is on the same page about bringing a new dog into the home.
Access to a fenced yard. While a fenced yard isn't necessary, it definitely can make things easier! If you don't have access to a yard, you might want to consider a lower energy dog breed.
Family members. It's important to consider all of the people who will regularly be interacting with your new dog. Some dogs breeds are known for doing well with children, while others tend to prefer adult company. If you have elderly family members, a smaller dog might be the better option as a larger dog can knock dog the elderly or small children.
Activity level. One of the most important aspects to consider is the typical energy level of the dog breeds you're looking at. High energy dogs require a lot more supervision and exercise then a lower energy dog does. Dogs that were typically bred to work all day, easily become bored when left to their own devices.
Your lifestyle. If you're an avid hiker and camper then a more outgoing and energetic breed is probably a great choice for you. On the opposite end, if you prefer relaxing on the couch with a good movie, a more a low-key dog breed would be the better choice.
Time. How much time you have available to devote to a dog is an important consideration as well. If you work long hours, maybe consider adopting an older dog as opposed to a young puppy. Puppies require constant supervision and training as they mature and can be quite the handful for a busy person or family.
Money. While any dog breed is going to come with expenses, a puppy is going to cost more up front than a older dog. Adopting is usually cheaper than buying from a breeder. Consider if the dog you're looking at is going to require professional grooming or if a quick bath at home will do.
Taking all of these things into consideration, look at the list of dog breeds that you're most drawn to and choose the one or ones that match your lifestyle best. Once you've determined the best breed or breeds for you, then start looking into breeders or rescues with that criteria in mind. If you decide to go with a puppy, we offer Puppy Preschool at both our locations in Wildwood and Cottleville. Puppy Preschool is a great way to ensure you and your pup get off to a great start together! Call us today for more info or check us out on Facebook at
http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
314-300-4660
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New Puppy?
Are you preparing to bring a new puppy home soon? 8-12 weeks is a crucial socialization window. Our Puppy Preschool is the perfect option to help get your new family member off on the right foot. It's important to start socializing and introducing your puppy to new situations, people and other dogs as soon as you bring him or her home. One of our trainers is supervising and leading the class and is available to answer any questions. Puppy Preschool is a 1 hour group class for puppies 8-12 weeks. We focus on socialization, confidence building and puppy skills! Call us today at 314-300-4660 get get more info on the closest class to you! In the meantime, take a look at our Puppy Checklist. We've compiled a list of what we think is essential to have when bringing home a new puppy.
Bed or Mat: Getting your dog their own bed or mat to lay on isn't a necessity but most dogs like to have a soft place to lay.
Collar: A basic buckle collar with your dog's identification on it can be a lifesaver should your dog ever get away from you. There are even many different styles and designs of collars for you to choose from.
Crate or Kennel: A crate or kennel is a must! A kennel helps tremendously with potty training and for keeping your dog out of trouble when you can't be supervising him.
Food & Water Bowls: There's a wide variety of bowls in different styles and patterns to choose from. Metal and plastic are both easy to clean and sanitize.
Leash: We recommend a 4-6 ft. leash. Leather leashes are easiest on your hands, but they make a wide variety of different styles and designs. We also recommend avoiding flexi leashes. They make training more difficult and if your dog is too far away from you, you'll have a harder time keeping him safe from cars, other dogs, etc.
Long Line: A long line is useful for safely giving your dog some more room to run and play with you, and also for training!
Puppy Food: With so many brands of food currently on the market, do your research and choose a food with quality ingredients. Consult your veterinarian with any questions regarding diet and nutrition.
Toys: There's so many to choose from, ropes, stuffed toys, chew bones, balls, etc. Try different toys to find the ones that really get your puppy excited.
Treats: Just as an everyday treat, anything with quality ingredients will do! For training purposes, we recommend small, soft treats that can be quickly and easily eaten to get right back to training. You can also break up larger treats into smaller pieces. Experiment with different treats to find ones your dog really loves A treat pouch can also be useful for keeping treats on you and keeping your hands free.
Call us today to schedule your FREE consultation or check us out on Facebook at http://www,facebook.com/caseyraystl
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What is Proofing?
What is Proofing? Proofing in dog training refers to a stage of training that is often referred to as distraction proofing. Distraction proofing SHOULD be the final stage of training completed and is the direct link needed to have a successful OFF LEASH dog, or a dog that will execute without the constant need of training tools. During proofing, the dog must be worked in obedience around distractions so that they learn that training isn't just when they want it. It can be anywhere, at anytime and around any distraction. Distractions to dogs are just their instincts trying to take over but proper training through a distraction proofing stage teaches a dog that your training overrides their instincts. What does your dog do when it sees a squirrel outdoors? Or when someone rings your doorbell? How about when your dog is with a group of dogs and you call them. Do they come as they should? These behaviors seem out of reach for many dog owners but in reality, the dog owner is merely just missing a determining factor in their training routine. Proofing! How do you proof your dog? Keep in mind that this should be the LAST stage in training so if you aren't there yet, take your dog through the learning and correctional stages FIRST. Then, when you're ready to polish up all the training take to the distractions and watch the training come full circle! Here's a couple ideas on how to help proof your dog:
Use obedience in your games. Make your dog execute before throwing the ball, giving the treat, etc. A game of fetch can greatly be enhanced by you making your dog 'sit' or 'down' while you throw the reward. After they hold the command for 5 seconds, use your release word and allow them to fetch. This also greatly taps into both mental and physical energy in which both should be accomplished daily to fulfill your dog.
If you enjoy the dog parks, head out with the idea in mind that you're going to the dog park but you're not going in! Use the outside fence line to run our dog through all of its obedience. Make them come when called, heel along the fence line, use your sitstays and downstays. The constant nuisance of the dogs inside the park will be plenty for needed distraction work.
Setup scenarios round the home and make it a point to use your obedience around added distractions of doorbells, people coming and going, kids playing. Use your place command any time you need to gain control. Heck, I'd even be sure to run the dog through all of its commands with every new visitor.
It's a way of life you're after, not just "taking my dog to training." As always your complete staff is available to guide you and answer any and all of your questions. Happy Training! Casey
Call us today to schedule your FREE consultation. Check us out on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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Does Your Dog Need a Life Jacket?
While it's true that some dogs are natural swimmers, others are less suited to the water. Whether your dog is a solid swimmer or uncertain in the water, a life jacket is a beneficial safety precaution. A dog life jacket makes it easier for your dog to keep his head above water and stay afloat if he finds himself in rough waters. There are many different varieties of life jackets to purchase online and in stores. Here's a future features we recommend looking for:
A handle! A handle makes it easier to pull your dog out of the water and into a boat or onto a dock. A handle also allows you to guide a new swimmer around in the water a little easier.
Look for a jacket or vest that has a D-ring so you can attach a leash when necessary.
Life jackets come in a wide assortment of colors and patterns, a bright color will make it easier to spot your dog in the water.
Keep in mind that even the strongest swimmer can be overcome by fatigue or struggle in waves. A life jacket will provide peace of mind that your dog will stay afloat. Remember to always monitor your dog while in the water and never leave him unsupervised.
Happy swimming!
Schedule your FREE consultation at 314-300-4660. Check out our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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Training with Multiple Dogs
If you live in a multi-dog household, I'm sure you've already experienced some of the struggles that can come with training multiple dogs. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to make it easier! Teach new things individually first. Always go through the learning stage with any new behavior in a low distraction environment, one-on-one. Additionally, making individual time for each dog allows the opportunity to grow and build individual relationships with each dog in your household. Using crates, tethers and baby gates makes separating dogs much easier. Crate training has many additional benefits as well. You can also provide the dog that isn't training an interactive game or toy, like a stuffed kong. Once you've taught all of the dogs in your household a Place command, we recommend using that as well during training sessions. One dog can be practicing self control by maintaining their place command while the other works with you!
We would also recommend using different release words for each dog. A release word is what we use to tell the dog they no longer need to stay in a command and they're free to do whatever they want. Some common release words, are free, break, okay, release, relax, etc. Those are just some examples, you can get creative! Using different words for each dog allows you to free one dog from a command while keeping the others in place without adding a lot of confusion. Once you're dogs have a solid understanding of their obedience commands and release words then you can start working them together. In the beginning if you have access to multiple handlers (1 person for each dog) that can be helpful as the dogs adjust to listening around each other. If it's just you, don't worry, you can still make it happen, you'll just need a little more patience. It'll be helpful to keep the dogs on leashes so help maintain control and reinforce behaviors. Remember to ALWAYS BE CONSISTENT. Now that you've been working your dogs separately and together, it's time to work that training into your everyday life. Use your training when you're out on walks, before feedings, at doorways, and the list goes on and on! The more you practice, the better your dogs will be! Happy Training
Call us today to schedule your FREE consultation. You can also check out our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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5 Steps to a Solid Recall
A solid and reliable recall is one of the most important things you can teach your dog. You'll be able to give them more freedom while also keeping them safe. If you're still struggling with your dog's recall, here's 5 steps you can take to improve on it!
Be sure to use a leash when in the teaching phase. The leash allows you to provide direction and correction when needed, as well as providing a safety net for you. As your dog becomes more reliable, you can start letting the leash just drag around and then progress to taking the leash off!
Pay attention to your dog's head position. Your dog should be looking in your direction as he approaches. It may not seem like a big deal if your dog is looking around as they come towards you, but that's the first sign that they are going to quickly head in a new direction.
Be sure to praise and reward at the correct moment! Start praising your dog when he decides to come to you and then finish out by rewarding AFTER your dog has completed the recall and is sitting in front of you. We like to finish out a recall with a Sit to prevent the dog from getting close and then taking back off again!
Start to incorporate more distractions into your training. Go to new locations, practice at a busy park with kids running around or in your living room when the doorbell rings. When you increase distractions, you may have to take a step back and re attach a long line or leash to ensure success and safety.
Treat every recall as an "emergency recall" by holding your dog accountable and following through EVERY SINGLE TIME. The more you hold your dog accountable, the more reliable your recall will become!
Still need help perfecting your recall? Call us today at 314-300-4660 to schedule a free consultation. Check us out on Facebook at http://www,facebook.com/caseyraystl
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Why Your Dog Only Listens in Class!
One of the most common things we hear as dog trainers is "my dog does everything perfect in a training class, but not at home." So why is your dog only listening so well in class? Here's a few of the most common reasons.
1) There is a lack of consistency at home in between lessons and classes. In order to see real results, you have to put in the effort at home too! Training your dog happens all day long even when you don't realize it. It's important to always hold your dog accountable for his actions and to be sure you're reinforcing the right behaviors. Small training sessions throughout the day goes a long way towards gaining that same consistency at home that you see in classes.
2) There is a lack of follow through at home. When you’re in a lesson or training class, the trainer is there to hold you and your dog accountable to a certain set of standards. It's up to you to maintain that same standard when you return home! If you tell your dog to do something, whether it be to come, sit, down, etc., be sure you're reinforcing it and following through. Don't let your dog blow you off!
3) Your dog is not being supervised. In a class or lesson, all of your attention is on your dog. At home and in the real world, life is full of distractions. If you can't devote your attention to your dog and he's not yet ready to have unsupervised free time, use your Place command or a crate. The more your dog gets the opportunity to chew on furniture, steal things off the counter, or practice other naughty behaviors, the higher the likelihood that they'll continue.
4) Your dog's training needs to be generalized. Dog's typically don't generalize well. While they might understand the rules under one roof, under another they completely forget! The only way to generalize the behaviors you've learned in your training classes is to practice, practice, practice! Train with your dog in a variety of locations and scenarios.
Follow through with these tips and we're sure you'll be able to gain the same consistency in your dog's training at home that you have in training class!
Set up your free consultation today at 314-300-4660. Check us out on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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Outdoor Activities with Your Dog
With the weather turning warmer and the days growing longer, it's time to get outside and enjoy the outdoors! There's tons of ways to include your dog in outdoor activities, but here's a couple ideas to start with:
Biking - Many dogs would love to tag along during a bike ride. With the proper training, yours can too! You can buy bicycle attachments that aid in preventing your dog from running too close and getting hurt. Remember to keep in mind your dog's stamina as well as your own and not overdo it. Dogs, like us, need to build up the proper stamina and conditioning over time.
Camping - Camping is great activity to include your dog in. Be sure to find a campground that is dog friendly and make the appropriate arrangements. You can even buy special "dog tents". Don't forget any of the essentials such as a crate, collar and leash, and food and fresh water.
Fetch - Most dogs love a good game of fetch! Playing fetch actually has been benefits. Not only does it burn off some energy, but playing fetch with your dog also strengthens your bond and makes returning to you enjoyable (because you're going to keep playing)!
Jogging - If you're the athletic type, jogging is a great way to exercise your dog too! Just as with biking, keep in mind that your dog might need conditioned to jogging long periods of time or distances. It's important your dog has a solid heel and can maintain your pace without falling behind or pulling ahead. Once you've gotten your rhythm down, you can even invest in a hands free leash to make things even easier.
Swimming - One of the great things about swimming as exercise is that it's low impact, so it doesn't stress the joints of older or arthritic animals. Not all dogs are natural swimmers, but most can learn. If your dog is unsure about the water, just take it slow and don't force him in. Try filling a kiddie pool at first!
Walking and Hiking - Walking is good for you and your dog! If you're a hiker, consider getting a lightweight backpack for your dog to carry food and water in. Remember to keep your dog on leash in public areas where leashes are required and until you have a solid recall. The benefits of walking and hiking together are unbeatable!
While adventuring outdoors always keep in mind that dog's suffer from the heat more than we do. Always be mindful of the temperature and your dog's level of exhaustion. It's also never a bad idea to consult a veterinarian before beginning any new activities with your dog, especially if he wasn't previously very active. Safety first!
Call us today to set up your FREE consultation. Check out our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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AKC Canine Good Citizen
The Canine Good Citizen 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. All owners participating in the CGC test will sign the Responsible Dog Owners Pledge. By signing the pledge, owners agree to take care of their dog's health needs, safety, exercise, training and quality of life. Owners also agree to show responsibility by doing things such as cleaning up after their dogs in public places and never letting dogs infringe on the rights of others. More information on the Canine Good Citizen and other AKC activities can be found at http://www.akc.org CGC Video Sample of Exercises - click the link to view! Items on the Canine Good Citizen Test include: Test #1 - Accepting a Friendly Stranger
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation. The evaluator walks up to the dog and handler and greets the handler in a friendly manner, ignoring the dog. The two should be able to shake hands and exchange conversation without the dog showing any signs of resentment or shyness. Sitting
Test #2 - Sitting Politely for Petting
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while out with its handler. With the dog sitting at the handler's side, the evaluator pets the dog on the head and body. The handler may talk to his or her dog throughout the exercise. The dog may also stand in place as it's petted. The dog must not show shyness or resentment.
Test #3 - Appearance and Grooming
This practical test demonstrates that the dog will welcome being groomed and examined and will permit someone else to do so. The evaluator inspects the dog to determine if it is clean and groomed. The dog must appear to be in healthy condition (proper weight, clean and healthy). The handler should supply the comb or brush commonly used on the dog. The evaluator then softly combs or brushes the dog, and in a natural manner, lightly examines the ears and gently picks up each front foot. It is not necessary for the dog to hold a specific position during the exam, and the handler may talk to to the dog throughout.
Test #4 - Out for a Walk (Walking on a Loose Lead)
This test demonstrates that the handler is in control of the dog. The dog may be on either side of the handler. The dog's position should leave no doubt that the dog is attentive to the handler and is responding to the handler's movements and changes of direction. The dog doesn't need to be perfectly aligned and need not sit when the handler stops. The evaluator may use a pre-plotted course or may direct the handler/dog team by issuing instructions. In either case, there should be a right turn, left run, and an about turn with at least one stop in between and another at the end. The handler may talk to the dog along way and give commands in a normal tone of voice. The handler may sit the dog at stops if desired.
Test #5 - Walking Through a Crowd
This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people (at least three). The dog may show some interest in the strangers but should continue to walk with the handler, without evidence of over-exuberance, shyness or resentment. The handler may talk to the dog throughout the test. The dog should not jump on people in the crowd or put tension on the leash.
Test #6 - Sit and Down on Command and Staying in Place
This test demonstrates that the dog has training, will respond to the handler's commands to sit and down and will remain in the place commanded by the handler (sit or down, whichever handler prefers). The dog must do sit AND down on command, then the owner chooses the position for leaving the dog in the stay. The dog will wear a 20 ft. long line during this exercise and the handler may take a reasonable amount of time and use more than one command to get the dog to sit and then down. The handler may not force the dog into position but can touch the dog to offer gentle guidance. The handler will then tell the dog to stay and walk to the end of the line, turn, and return to the dog at a natural pace. The dog must remain in the place it was left, but can change position. The dog may be released from the front or the side.
Test #7 - Coming When Called
This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler. The handler will walk 10 ft. from the dog, turn to face the dog, and then give a recall. The handler may use encouragement to get the dog to come. Handlers can choose to tell the dog to "stay" or they may simply walk away, giving no instructions to the dog.
Test #8 - Reaction to Another Dog
This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 20 ft., stop, shake hands and exchange conversation, then continue on for about 10 ft. The dogs should show no more than casual interest in each other. Neither dog should go to the other dog or its handler.
Test #9 - Reaction to Distraction
This test demonstrates that the dog is confident at all times when faced with common distracting situations. The evaluator will select and present two distractions. Examples of distractions include dropping a chair, rolling a crate dolly pas the dog, having a jogger run in front of the dog, or dropping a crutch or cane. The dog may express natural interest and curiosity and/or may appear slightly startled but should not panic, try to run away, show aggressiveness, or bark.
Test #10 - Supervised Separation
This test demonstrates that a dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary, and will maintain training and good manners. Evaluators are encouraged to say something like, "Would you like me to watch your dog?" and then take hold of the dog's leash. The owner will go out of sight for three minutes. The dog does not have to stay in position but should not continually bark, whine or pace unnecessarily, or show anything stronger than mild agitation or nervousness. Evaluators may talk to the dog but should not engage in excessive talking, petting, or management attempts.
EQUIPMENT All tests must be performed on leash. For collars, dogs should wear well-fitting buckle or slip collars made of leather, fabric, or chain. Special training collars such as pinch collars, head halters, and electronic collars are not permitted in the CGC test. The evaluator should supply a 20-ft lead for the exercises it's required. The owner/handler should bring the dog's brush or comb. ENCOURAGEMENT Owners/handlers may use praise and encouragement throughout the test. The owner may pet the dog between exercises. Food and treats are not permitted during testing nor is the use of toys, etc. to get the dog to do something. FAILURES/DISMISSALS Any dog that eliminates during testing must be marked failed. The only exception is test item 10 if held outdoors. Any dog that growls, snaps, bites, attacks, or attempts to attack a person or another dog must be dismissed from the test.
Set up your FREE consultation today at 314-300-4660. Check out our Facebook page at
http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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Spring Cleaning Tips for Pets
It's that time of the year again! Time for spring cleaning. Here's a few tips to help you out if you have pets at home:
Deodorize couches, carpets and pet beds with baking soda. Make a mixture of baking soda combined with a few drops of pet-safe essential oils. Spray onto furniture, let sit 10-20 minutes and then vacuum! Pet beds with removable covers can easily be thrown in the wash for easy cleaning.
Use a damp rubber glove to remove pet hair. Run a gloved hand over cushions to easily collect hair. If it's a car interior that needs cleaned, try using a pumice stone to collect all of that excess hair.
Toss stuffed toys into the washer! Use an all-natural, unscented detergent that's safe for animals. Even toys with crinkles and squeakers can usually survive the washer.
Groom outdoors. Brush out all of the loose hair outside to prevent it from being all over your house. Warmer weather also provides the perfect opportunity for bath time!
Dust with a microfiber cloth. The material uses static energy to pick up more hair and dander. Don't forget all of those normally forgotten spots like fan blades and light fixtures!
Be cautious when tossing medications and cleaners. Make sure anything harmful is kept well out of reach and taken straight to the trash outside.
Plastic bowls and dog toys can go in the dishwasher. It's not a bad idea to give them a quick rinse after removal to remove any traces of detergent left behind.
Sort through supplies and toys. Donate anything that can still be used to your local shelter or rescue.
Time for a toothbrushing! Plaque and tarter build up on your dogs teeth can cause health problems. Use a pet-friendly toothpaste to brush your dog's teeth.
Use the right tools. Consider investing in a vacuum made for pet hair. Always dust before vacuuming or else you'll just have to vacuum again!
Happy Spring!
Set up your FREE consultation today. Check out our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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5 Common Training Mistakes
#1 - Human Error Everyone makes mistakes, even trainers! Before you assume your dog is ignoring you or being stubborn, are you 100% positive he understands what's being asked of him? Is it possible you were sending mixed signals? A great way to learn from training mistakes is to record your training sessions. Recording your sessions allows you to look back later and observe what went wrong and what went right and be even better next time!
#2 - Not Allowing Your Dog to Make Mistakes It's important to allow your dog the freedom to make his own choices so that you can then either a) reward the right choice or b) correct the wrong choice. Only through making mistakes, being corrected and then shown the right choice will your dog's obedience improve!
#3 - Using Low Value Rewards What is your dog motivated by? Find what your dog loves and use it during your training sessions. Treats and food are typically easiest when trying to shape or lure a new behavior but toys and affection can be great for reinforcing and proofing behaviors!
#4 - Using Over-Sized Treats Using treats that are too large or difficult to eat. If the treats take too long to chew, it'll slow down your training sessions. Using larger treats will also fill your dog up faster and he may become less motivated to continue working for you. #5 Bribing Instead of Rewarding Using treats during the training process is incredibly helpful, but it's important that you're rewarding and NOT bribing. Rewards come after the dog has done what you've asked. Bribes are waving a treat in their face to convince them to do the behavior.
Call us at 314-300-4660 to schedule your FREE consultation.
Check out our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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Proofing Through the 3 D's
If you're familiar with our training programs, you'll know that we train in 3 different stages: learning, correctional and proofing. Once you're ready to move into the proofing stage, you can use the 3 D's of dog training to help you!
Duration - Duration is time. Mostly duration refers to how long your dog will hold a command. Place is the easiest command to start with when building duration. Gradually build up the time your dog can help his commands until he'll hold them as long as you need!
Distance - Distance has to do with the amount of space between the dog and you. Build distance by moving farther and farther away until you're even out of sight! Another way to practice distance work is by actually signaling commands from a distance away from your dog.
Distraction -Distractions are anything and everything that may motivate your dog to ignore you and/or break his commands. Fun things, scary things, smelly things, etc. are all distractions. Work on your obedience in as many situations as you can think of, including different locations and around various distractions. The more things you proof your dog around and through, the better he'll be!
Call us today to schedule your FREE consultation. Check out our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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Spoiling and Coddling: Do's and Don't's
Too often we, as trainers, see dogs that have been spoiled and/or coddled into terrible mindsets. Many behavior problems stem from owners trying to do good, but unfortunately making the behavior worse by spoiling and coddling. A lack of rules and boundaries is setting both you and your dog up to fail. It's amazing the changes you'll see by simply instilling some consistency by the way of rules and boundaries into your dog's life. Dog's DON'T want to lead and actually thrive when rules and structure are put into place. Most likely, your dog will thank you for taking the decision making away from them. It's important to avoid coddling ANY fear or anxiety. Picking up, petting or cooing a fearful or panicked dog is actually reinforcing that state of mind. It's better to either ignore those behaviors or redirect them into better choices like a 'place' command. So how can you improve?
Provide rules, structure and set firm boundaries. Stay consistent!
Don't spoil your dog without good behavior first! It's okay to spoil a well-behaved dog as long as the rules you've set are maintained.
Don't coo or inadvertently reward fear.
Ignore unrealistic fears, you want your dog to see you as unfazed so he can relax too!
Need help getting your dog into a better place with training and behavior? Call us today to schedule your FREE consultation.
Check out our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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Quick Tips to Stop Jumping
Many owners struggle with their dog jumping up on them and others. Here's a few quick tips to stop jumping:
Consistency! If you don't like your dog to jump on you then he can't be allowed to do it ever. Allowing your dog to jump up when you're in your PJ's but getting angry when he jumps up as your heading to work is unfair and confusing to your dog. Keep it consistent and make things easier on both of you!
Consistency AMONG EVERYONE! Now that you've decided you never want to allowing jumping, it's time to get everyone in the family on the same page. It's important that the rules are the same across the board. The same "no jumping" rule should also apply to strangers and visitors. The clearer and simpler things are, the quicker your dog will learn!
Only reward when all 4 feet on the floor. Try to only touch your dog when all 4 feet on the ground. Any attention while jumping up will reinforce that behavior in your dog's mind. Either ignore him completely until he stops jumping or correct him in way that he understands and makes sense to him.
Train an incompatible behavior. Examples would be a place or sit command. It's impossible for your dog to jump up on you if he's holding her place or sit command.
Use a leash! Without a leash, you have no way to prevent or correct your dog from jumping up. Always have a leash on your dog if you know someone's coming home or if you're out in public to correct and then redirect your dog into a more acceptable behavior.
Don't hesitate to consult a professional trainer if you're struggling! Set up your free consultation today with one of our trainers or check out our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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The Benefits of Doggie Day Care
Thinking about sending your dog to doggie day care? Our new location opening soon will be offering this convenient service to all of our training clients! Here's a few ways day care can benefit your pooch:
Supervised exercise and socialization. All dogs can benefit from daily physical exercise and supervised play is a great way to provide that. Trained professionals monitor your dog all day long while they run around and play as much as they'd like!
Relief from boredom. Many behavioral issues stem from boredom including excessive barking, digging, and chewing. Day cares provide a solution for busy owners to help keep their dogs mentally and physically stimulated throughout the day.
Perfect for busy schedules. Whether you work long hours, are having a big party, or just having the house repainted, day care is the perfect solution. You won't feel guilty that your dog is crated for long periods of time and at the end of the day, he'll come home tired!
While day care is a great option for many dogs, keep in mind that not every dog enjoys socializing with others. It's essential to consider your dog's personality and temperament when considering if doggie day care will be beneficial. [responsive]
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Set up your FREE consultation today! Check out our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/caseyraystl
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