Walking 2 of our dogs through the woods, and in the middle of a good conversation (aka not paying attention to the pups) we hear screaming and sounds of dog blowing up from around the corner on the trail. Yeah….. The same trail that Jax had just run down. I have the dogs on remote collars for recall, but…. no …
Is “Pit Bull” A Breed?
Holy shit this discussion pisses me off. I’ve written and deleted 4 different versions of this, just because they turn in to me ranting unintelligibly. So…… I’ll try again. 1- Is there a breed called Pit Bull? Yes. Yes, there is a breed called Pit Bull. The UKC started registering the American Pit Bull Terrier in 1898. Other groups have …
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 …
Winning in Tug
So….. Do you let the dog “win” while playing tug or not? Do you EVER let the dog “TAKE” the toy? That, is the question. This is such a readily answered question in dog training, that even folks without dogs have an answer for it! So….. Where do I stand on the issue? There is no “winning” the toy! I …
Spring Pole: Good Or Bad?
I’ve gotten this question a few times in the last couple of days. Thought I’d share my response here since a few other people may have the same question. Enjoy: Question: “What are your thoughts on people who tie a tug and let the dog hang? ……..What’s the purpose?” (old school shot of a tree Spring Pole) My Answer: “Back …
Tug: 2.0
So….. If you’ve read the blog at all, you know I’m a fan of tug. Particularly, in the Balabanov tradition, with Ellis making a close second. They’ve always said that it develops: 1. Engagement 2. Relationship 3. Language of training (terminal bridge, intermediate bridge, & no reward mark) 4. Impulse control 5. A high value “reward event” that isn’t food …
Jay Jack Pit Bull 101 Workshop!
I have been asked to come to Monaca, PA and give a workshop on my approach to the Bully Breeds! August 30th, 9am. Lecture Portion: We will cover the history of the breed, how it truly affects temperament, and my approach to helping the troubled ones. Also, which of the old school methods may still have a place in a …
Another Second Chance Dog
http://youtu.be/02I4u4zQAPw
“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 …