People have been expecting me to write an article. Montreal passes BSL. Dogs will be killed in droves. Everyone goes off. They’re waiting for me to jump on the rant wagon. But, you know what…… I don’t even have it in me. I’m sick. Disgusted. And, have been for years. This is not a new problem that just sprouted up …
Spring Pole Epiphany
I recently had an epiphany at a Spring Pole. Typically, I train tug held by the handler first, and then we work our way out in responsibility and area of influence, to flirt poles and spring poles. And… That’s a solid plan that’s worked well. I’ve seen dogs that get put on a spring pole without an “out”, and a …
Turns Out…….. Play IS as important as I think!!!!!!
We’ve been saying for a few years now that play is a hugely important part of training. And, we’re not the first! Ivan Balabanov has been saying it for decades!!!! Turns out, according to a new Ted Talk, science is backing up this approach. Check it out!!!! There is so much info in this video. Validates not only Play As …
Speed Wobbles
You know what speed wobbles are? It is a term for when a vehicle goes so fast, that it starts to wobble and lose control. And here’s the thing…… ALL vehicles will get them IF you go fast enough. So…. a sound piece of advice may be “Avoid going so fast that you get speed wobbles.” That said….. If you …
“Tug” For Rehab
Yep…. I don’t just use tug to biologically fulfill dogs, develop skills, language, and relationship….. I also use it to teach them to CHOOSE us over distraction. These dogs are not punished into not looking. They are choosing the game with their owner OVER the other dog. And make no mistake…. Both of these dogs were very reactive to the …
Why You Should Study Pickpocketing
Today….. I told someone that they should get good at picking pockets. Yeah. That’s the kind of advice you get from me. See……. We took their dog on an “Out & About” training session. It was on a busy walking trail in Amesbury, Mass. There were walkers. Bikes. Kids. Kids in strollers. And dogs……. Several dogs. Dogs stopped on the …
Extinction Burst
You walk up to the elevator. Push the button…… Wait. Push the button…… Wait. Push the button…… Wait. “One more fucking time, and I’m taking the stairs” you say. Push the button…… PUSH THAT STUPID PIECE OF SHIT BUTTON 55 GOD DAMN TIMES!!!!!! Quit, and take the stairs. That’s the extinction burst. It’s the burst or “trying” that happens just …
Why “Break Sticks” Are Shit.
If you’re a dog trainer with an interest in rehabbing dog aggression…… Please. Throw the “Break Stick” away. Look, I know why you have them. It’s a logical mistake to make. You want to break up a fight that involves at least one committed dog. (a concern you NEED to address if you work in rehab). Well….. Who has the …
“Pack Structure”
I’ve been wanting to write this for a while but……. Every time I try, I feel like my head will explode. Giving it another shot: Pack structure. When, I got into dog training it was to help troubled dogs. To that end everyone was talking about various ways to enforce what many times is referred to as “Pack Structure”. There …
Advanced Socialization Seminar: Saco Maine!
Finish Forward Dogs presents… Pack to Basics™ Advanced Socialization Solutions with Chad Mackin! When: Saturday April 26 & Sunday April 27, 2014 Where: 30 Spring Hill Rd. Saco, ME. 04072 Contact: Shannan Nutting, Jay Jack, and Amanda Buckner info@finishforwarddogs.com 207-251-2296 Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (Both days, may run slightly longer.) Fee: $349 per person/dog *All spaces are on …