Frequently Asked Questions
Can your dog be well behaved and spoiled?
Yes, of course. Your dog can sleep on the bed, get on the couch and
still walk properly on the leash, stay when told, and not jump on people.
What is the difference between a dog trainer and a behaviorist and a dog whisperer?
A dog trainer is someone who trains dogs using one method
for all dogs. Trainers teach basic behaviors—Come, Sit, Down, Stay—or
how to protect, do agility, or advanced obedience. ALL dogs should learn
basic obedience but the same training method may not work for all dogs.
A behaviorist understands WHY dogs do what they do, then channels
proper behavior accordingly. What motivates a German Shepherd will not
motivate an Afghan Hound the same way, and this specific breed behavior
knowledge makes training easier and more successful.
A dog whisper, understand why your dog does what it does, has studied the breeds and their purpose, and combines it with years of experience training with and instinctual gift. I am "The Female Dog Whisperer".
If your dog jumps on you, basic obedience training can help, but does
not stop the behavior. For example, if your dog jumps to get attention,
any action—physical or verbal—still gives the dog attention. A behaviorist
knows how to stop the behavior.
Can your dog be well behaved and spoiled?
Yes, of course. Your dog can sleep on the bed, get on the couch and
still walk properly on the leash, stay when told, and not jump on people.
What is the difference between a dog trainer and a behaviorist?
A dog trainer is someone who trains dogs using one method
for all dogs. Trainers teach basic behaviors—Come, Sit, Down, Stay—or
how to protect, do agility, or advanced obedience. ALL dogs should learn
basic obedience but the same training method may not work for all dogs.
A behaviorist understands WHY dogs do what they do, then channels
proper behavior accordingly. What motivates a German Shepherd will not
motivate an Afghan Hound the same way, and this specific breed behavior
knowledge makes training easier and more successful.
If your dog jumps on you, basic obedience training can help, but does
not stop the behavior. For example, if your dog jumps to get attention,
any action—physical or verbal—still gives the dog attention. A behaviorist
knows how to stop the behavior.
What does certification mean?
Unfortunately certification of a dog trainer really holds little value
without years of dog experience. A trainer can be certified by a major
chain pet store or a weekend seminar. Often these “trainers”
are people who have never had a dog of their own other than the family
dog, or worked in any dog related field.
Is any dog too dumb to train?
NO dog is too “dumb”. Usually dogs that do not learn
a behavior are not being trained correctly. The smartest dogs are the
hardest to train because they have no desire to please. Your breed determines
the trainability factor.
What’s in a name?
What difference does it make what I call my dog? If you call your puppy
“Crash” because he bumps into things, you will always treat him like
a stupid, uncoordinated oaf. Name your dog something that will make him
the most wonderful dog he can be.
Crates are Mean!
Crates are NOT mean. They are your dog’s secure place of his
own. A crate allows you to housebreak your puppy easily, and travel safely.
A dog
is naturally a den animal. Since digging a den in your living room
would not be practical, a crate is the best next choice. Your dog’s crate
is his own apartment to get away from things.
Why should my dog have a dog run?
Your dog will find “things” to do in your yard when he
gets bored. Chewing your outdoor furniture, tearing up the yard, jumping
the fence or digging out are all options for your dog. A dog run keeps
your dog safe from plants, furniture, and the utility man leaving the
gate open.
Make sure you provide water, toys, shade and protection from the elements
in your dog’s run.
Why should my dog be spayed or neutered?
Your dog’s health is the first consideration—prostate cancer
for the males, mammary tumors and cancer for the girls. Unwanted litters,
aggression and mess are also major factors. Most people cannot guarantee
a lifetime good home for the puppies their dog produces. We put millions
of dogs to sleep every year due to overpopulation.
Are pit bulls bad dogs?
No, pit bulls are not bad dogs, but they are usually more
dog than most people can handle. For pit bulls, careful
breeding is a must, and excellent training and socialization are vital.
