Completely K9 Dog & Puppy Behavior, Obedience & Agility Training in Murrells Inlet near Myrtle Beach SC.

1st ... Education

Dog owners should know WHY their dogs do what they do ... NOT just how to change behaviors. We do our best to arm each client with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to train their dogs.

2nd ... Equipment

We stress positive reinforcement training and believe in using the least aversive training tools possible. We feel that most dogs can be trained on a flat collar. We will often use a martingale (limited slip) collar as well. Slip chains are used occasionally and are NEVER put into the hands of an inexperienced handler. Prong collars are permitted upon review for truly tough pullers but, are used as a tool, not a Band-Aid. The goal is to wean off of this type of collar after your dog has learned.

We do not employ the use of the "head harness" for training. Dogs are made to be very uncomfortable by them and once the device is removed, the dogs often quickly revert back to pulling. In addition, people mistake the head leader for a muzzle and owners are made to feel uncomfortable as well. Body harnesses are comfortable for dogs but are not the best tools for training. We do not typically allow them for training but there are some circumstances with toy breed dogs when we will allow them for the safety of the animal.

Retractable leashes are great for exercising your dog - not training. A good leather 4 foot leash is highly recommended. Nylon or cotton will also do. In addition - we will also use a long line (20 - 30 foot lead) for training some behaviors.

Clicker training is a fantastic way to communicate and teach your dog! However - we have found that students tend to over use them or find it bothersome to carry a clicker around. Danielle will be happy to teach you to clicker train your dog during private lessons - or come to the TRICKS AND CLICKS CLASS to learn more about clicker training. We DO NOT make every student use this tool during obedience class.

Electronic collars are used for some obedience behaviors and are a regular tool for retriever training. This training is taught taught on a private lesson basis only. We see no harm in using this as a tool when the handler is VERY well educated about the equipment. We teach an avoidance technique and go though a period of "collar conditioning" before using the collar as a training aid. The dogs are taught to understand why the collar is administrating a correction and are never "cold corrected" for poor behaviors. That type of use is what gives e-collar training a bad reputation and also aid in dogs that are "collar wise" or only behave when the collar is on. Like any training tool. We use it as a catalyst for teaching not a quick fix for bad behaviors.

3rd... Patience

Dog training does not happen overnight. All dogs can learn no matter how big or small, young or old. But - different dogs will learn at different speeds. If you make the commitment to your dog - we will make a commitment to you, and help you reach the level of obedience you desire and your dog deserves. For ...

Communication. Companionship. Competition.

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