Online dog training advice – Good idea?

Is following online dog training advice a good idea?

I was talking to a client recently about online dog training advice. He has just adopted a dog who is showing signs of separation anxiety. Before he came to me he turned to the internet for dog training advice. Thankfully he got in touch as he wasn’t sure whether the online advice he was getting was the best way to help his new friend.

“It was on the internet, so it must be true!”

There is a huge amount of online dog training advice. Unfortunately despite flashy websites or even TV shows not all of it is perhaps the best information.

There really is no substitute for one to one training (I can help). If for whatever reason you decide to try and resolve issues yourself first, there are a few things to look for and to avoid:

I would ‘run a mile’ if someone suggests:

  • Being ‘the pack leader’
  • Using E collars or choke chains
  • That using treats is bribery.
  • Using anything that will scare or imtimidate your dog

Do look for advice from those who:

  • Advocate the use of treats or toys in training.
  • Discuss being force free or positive reinforcement trainers.
  • Are happy to disclose their training methods.

What about Facebook?

As you can imagine I am a member of alot of facebook groups related to dogs and dog training. Some of the ‘advice’ I see offered makes me so sad (and mad). Unfortunately it is often said with such authority as to be believable.

Just because something works for one dog doesn’t mean it will work for all. People will often only give a snippet of what they did in a particular situation. Every dog is an individual and they need to be trained as such. I treat every situation as unique and will give you appropriate advice and support – Get in touch, I’d love to help.

Regardless of what someone tells you. If it doesn’t feel right to you please don’t do it!

If you decide to go it alone first, here are a few websites I would trust and recommend to give upto date advice:

• Karen Pryor
• Victoria Stillwell
• Ian Dunbar
• Kikopup

There are also some useful videos on line.

Check out Kikopup and Zac George on youtube.

There really is no substitute for 1-2-1 advice and training. I am happy to help, to find out how, get in touch

Happy training !

Kate