Training Information

If you just do a google search for dog training information you're very likely to be misled. There are an awful lot of very damaging advice out there which recommends dangerous and outdated methods based on debunked theories of dominance.

Be very skeptical about what you read online and consider the qualifications and motives of who is publishing it.

Here is some information from respected sources which you can trust.

What is Force Free Training?

"Positive Reinforcement Training", "Reward Based Training", "Force Free Training" and "Clicker Training" are all terms for training that focuses on teaching and rewarding desired behaviour and managing but not punishing undesired behaviour. Dogs taught positively still have rules and boundaries! The difference is the way that the rules are taught and enforced.

Positive Training is modern, evidence-based training that is endorsed by the Australian Veterinary Association (3MB PDF), RSPCA Australia, and peak dog training professional organisations around the world. Renown dog trainer and author Pam Dennison explains why she switched from punishment to reward based training.

Training and Behaviour

Common Challenges

• I Need to Return This Dog: Feeling frustrated with your dog? Thinking you might need to find him or her a new home? Please think again! Armed with a bit of knowledge, dog behavioural challenges can be overcome or at least managed.
• I just got a new dog. Now What? How to set your new dog up for success.
• Basic skills: sit, stand, and lie down
• My dog is dominant: Debunking Dominance from the Australian Vet Assoc. (PDF)
• Enrichment and toys to combat boredom and teenage energy (578K PDF)
• Getting overly excited when seeing other dogs when on lead
• Separation anxiety book and website
• Issues when you have more than one dog: Basic info then more info.
• Children and dogs

Recommended resources

• Puppy Guide from Bowwowmeow will help you prepare for and care for your new puppy. Covers health, housetraining, socialisation, etc. (36 pages PDF)
• Rescue Dog Guide from Bowwowmeow will help you prepare to bring an adult dog into your home, what to expect, settling in period, and how to care for him or her. Covers introduction to other pets, interaction with children, health, training, dog body language, etc. (40 pages PDF)
• Dogmantics is an excellent site for dog training videos and information. Just go to the homepage then click on the "Free Videos" link at the top of the page or go directly to the Kikopup YouTube channel.
• ASPCA Virtual Pet Behaviorist - Advice about dog behavioural challenges such as anxiety, aggression, barking, food guarding, housetraining, etc.
• Reward Based Training guide from the Australian Veterinary Assoc.

Dog Health

• Veterinary Partner
• ASPCA Dog health, care and training

More Information on our Facebook Page

We regularly post dog training and behaviour tips, photos and videos on our Dog Training Newcastle Facebook page.