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

1) Education For The Client / Handler:

Dog owners should know WHY their dogs do what they do ... NOT just how to modify or create behaviors. We do our best to arm each client with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to train their own dogs after they depart from the board and train program here at BlackFoot. Additionally one on one lessons for obedience or field training is available for scheduling.

2) Psychology Behind Dog Training:

We stress the balance of using positive reinforcement training with corrective or avoidance pressure techniques. We believe in using the least aversive training tools possible.

3) Recognition For Need & Proper Use Of Equipment:

We use a variety of training tools such as flat buckle collars, martingale (limited slip collars), Slip chains, Prong Collars, Electric collars, long lines and tab leashes. Each dog is different and no matter which equipment we deem suitable, it will be used humanely and fairly. When teaching our clients to use the different options for collars and leads, they are NEVER put to use by an inexperienced handler. We make sure you are comfortable and competent before taking your dog home to work on training techniques together. We believe that certain collars are often used as "Band-Aids" for troubled dogs. Using equipment in this manner does not benefit dog or human. We feel that the goal is to wean off of this type of any training collar after your dog has learned... ultimately, an off leash obedient companion or competitor.

Clicker training is a proven and effective method of using operant condition to train dogs (cats, dolphins and horses too). It is a fantastic way to communicate and teach, 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.

Electronic collars are used for some obedience behaviors and are a regular tool for retriever training. This training is taught on a private lesson basis only for handler education. We see no harm in using this as a tool when the handler is 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.

4) 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.