Dog Training
At VanBuren K9 Academy, we integrate essential character education into the dog and handler training process. This begins with foundational skills, such as managing emotions, evaluating options under stress, and fostering respect for all individuals and animals involved. These principles help handlers develop self-control, which is crucial for building a strong, positive relationship with their dog.
The rule of thumb is that humans need to practice a new concept at least seven times to retain it effectively. Dogs, on the other hand, may require approximately 30 repetitions to fully understand a command. Consider the impact on a dog if its handler reacts harshly at the first sign of noncompliance. Just as a child who is verbally or physically mistreated for a mistake can feel fear and confusion, a dog may experience similar distress when subjected to frustration-fueled reactions.
Training, whether for a child or a dog, requires patience and consistent guidance. For instance, telling a child to clean their room without providing clear instructions sets them up for failure. If we expect them to succeed after a single demonstration, we’re setting unrealistic expectations. The same principle applies to dog training.
When I teach a dog the SIT command at home on a leash, they often begin to grasp the concept within a few repetitions. However, taking that same dog to a public park and expecting them to respond off-leash after minimal practice is setting them up for failure. If the dog doesn’t comply and I respond with frustration or punishment, it’s not the dog’s fault—it’s a failure of training strategy. This is what we call poor management.
You’ll know your dog has truly mastered a command when they respond to it consistently, even on a leash and in the presence of distractions. Only then should you advance to the next stage of training. Losing self-control as a handler is a signal to stop, reassess, and ensure both you and your dog are ready to progress.
STOP:
• Stop whatever you’re doing – take a moment to pause and step back.
• Think about the situation – recognize your emotions and manage them effectively.
• Options should be considered – weigh the consequences of a negative action versus the rewards of a positive one.
• Proceed with the right choice – make an informed decision that aligns with your ultimate goal.
These simple steps will help you build a stronger bond with your dog. By staying calm and collected, you’ll earn your dog’s trust and reinforce your role as a reliable leader.
We focus on building confidence in both the dog and the handler through positive reinforcement, while also establishing clear boundaries. We believe that before anyone handles a dog—whether for work, show, or as a companion—they should first master the essential skills of effective dog-human communication.
This is why we emphasize to our clients that we “communicate with the dog and train the owners.” While dogs thrive in a rewarding, consistent, and structured training program, humans often find it challenging to maintain consistency. Our goal is to bridge this gap, ensuring that both the dog and the owner are set up for success.
At VanBuren K9 Academy, we expect all handlers to incorporate essential building blocks—self-control, responsibility, and respect—into their daily training routines. Our commitment is that no dog leaves our care without a solid foundation, ensuring they are fully prepared and enriched by their training experience.
We not only use this method in preparing dog handlers to deal with the frustrations of working with an unruly dog, but we also believe in using these same principles in our every day lives.
