Why Train at Chaar? | Class Types | Class Schedule |
Why Train at Chaar?
90% of what we do in class here is really training the owner. We can’t be there in every situation that you and your dog will encounter. After 6 to 18 weeks, depending on your goals, many pet dog students don’t really NEED to come to weekly classes any longer because you will learn to understand the way your dog thinks, creative ways to change annoying behaviors, how to improve your dogs attention, and work around and/or develop your dogs skill level around distractions. The rules of training become a way of life whether you are at home or at the dog park. (see “Your Dog Knows How To Sit” on this blog)
Our training system stresses the importance of systematic training and regular feedback.
We aim to create an awesome family pet that is gentle, “and shall combine the utmost in willingness, enjoyment and precision on the part of the dog with naturalness, gentleness and smoothness on the part of the handler”. *AKC Standard of Perfection in Obedience
All of the trainers at Chaar are take part in continuing education clinics to offer you humane, positive, and up-to-date training techniques. Our trainers have memberships in the American Kennel Club, Association of Pet Dog Trainers, United States Dog Agility Association, and are certified Canine Good Citizen Evaluators.
What methods do you use to train?
There are so many methods you can use to train your dog and many opinions on what’s best and most effective. At Chaar we prefer a positive motivational approach using a marker (click or word) to mark the correct behavior. We teach owners how to eliminate the possibility of their dogs making a mistake (it’s possible!). By repeating and reinforcing in a positive manner we develop quick responses, instill confidence and nurture intelligence. This creates strong bonds between pet and owner out of pleasure. As training progresses through the levels, it becomes the dogs responsibility comply on the first command.
Punishmet
Chaar has adopted the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s position on the use and misuse of punishment for animals. The position is that punishment (e.g. choke chains, pinch collars, and electronic collars) should not be used as a first-line or early-use treatment for behavior problems. This is due to the potential adverse effects which include but are not limited to: inhibition of learning, increased fear-related and aggressive behaviors, and injury to animals and people interacting with animals.
Puppy Socialization
Chaar has adopted the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s position on early puppy socialization. In general, puppies can start puppy socialization classes as early as 7-8 weeks of age. Puppies should receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days prior to the first class and a first deworming. They should be kept up-to-date on vaccines throughout the class.
Dominance Theory
Chaar has adopted the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s position on dominance. It is a wide misconception that problem behaviors in our pets are due to dominance. On the contrary, most problems have a strong underlying motivation of fear and anxiety.
AVSAB Position Statement
Dominance Theory Statement (pdf file)
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Convenient Class Schedule