Live well together: Our dog training method philosophy

First written in October 2020 and last updated in December 2021. Our approach is always evolving as we, our environment, and our opportunities grow! You can read some specific ways our dog training has changed over time in this more recent article.

Conversations about dog training methodologies can get heated. People throw labels back and forth like grenades. We’re too quick to judge someone who isn’t in our “camp”.

The insults, reductionist attacks, and overall dialogue have prompted me to consider my own beliefs more deeply. What truly is my dog training philosophy, at its core?

On the surface, many would say I’m “balanced”. I support the thoughtful use of traditionally aversive tools like prongs and ecollars and am not ashamed to talk about punishment. At the same time, I cringe at cookie-cutter board and train programs that slap the same approach on every single dog. I think many “balanced” trainers use far too much compulsion. And I’ve learned helpful information from professionals …