May 13, 2024
Welcoming a dog into your home is a joyous experience filled with cuddles, wet kisses and playful tugs of war, but it also involves some vital training steps, such as dog crate training. When done correctly, crate training can be a rewarding experience for you and your furry friend. It provides a safe space to […]
Welcoming a dog into your home is a joyous experience filled with cuddles, wet kisses and playful tugs of war, but it also involves some vital training steps, such as dog crate training. When done correctly, crate training can be a rewarding experience for you and your furry friend. It provides a safe space to relax, soothes anxiety and aids in house training. However, even the most well-intentioned pet owners can make mistakes that hinder this process.
Crate training a dog can feel daunting, whether you are a new or experienced dog owner. Explore some of the common crate training mistakes to avoid so that you can give your pet a smooth and positive transition.
One of the most common errors is rushing the crate training process. Dogs of all ages need time to get used to their new environment. It’s essential to be patient. Start by introducing your dog to the crate briefly while you’re home, then gradually increase the duration as they become more accustomed to the space.
Dogs thrive on routine. Using the crate inconsistently can send mixed signals. Establish a regular pattern for when it’s time to enter the crate, especially at bedtime or when you’re stepping out for a reasonable amount of time.
Think of your dog’s crate as a comfortable personal space, not a punishment zone. If a crate becomes a place for timeouts following misbehavior, your dog may develop negative associations with it. The crate should always represent a safe and happy space.
The size of the crate matters a lot. Ensure the one you use is spacious enough for your dog to comfortably lie down, stand and turn around. However, it should not be so large that they can use one end as a bathroom. For growing dogs, consider a crate with an adjustable divider that can adapt to your dog’s size as they mature.
Dogs learn best through positive reinforcement. Reward your dog with treats and affection when they enter the crate without a fuss. This practice reinforces crate time as a positive experience. Remember to give the treat after they enter the crate instead of using it to lure them in.
Accidents happen, especially when it comes to crate training for puppies. If your pup goes potty in the crate, don’t lose your patience or punish them. Clean it up thoroughly with an enzyme cleaner to completely remove the smell and try again.
At Off Leash K9 Training Maryland, we understand the nuances of building a positive and lasting bond between you and your pet. Whether you’re training your pup or introducing an older dog to a new routine, we have a variety of training programs tailored to fit every dog’s needs – regardless of age, size or breed. With the proper guidance, crate training can be a breeze.
If you’re interested in personalized advice on how to crate train your dog, or you want to look into other training services, give us a call or fill out our online form. Our experienced trainers are eager to help you raise a happy, obedient and well-rounded companion.
April 15, 2024
Did you know that consistency in dog training brings more than just discipline to your furry friends? Whether it’s about commanding your dog to wait for the food or telling him to stop on certain occasions, consistent efforts yield positive, enduring habits over time. Know how to train a dog effectively by following a routine […]
Did you know that consistency in dog training brings more than just discipline to your furry friends? Whether it’s about commanding your dog to wait for the food or telling him to stop on certain occasions, consistent efforts yield positive, enduring habits over time. Know how to train a dog effectively by following a routine that develops a good culture and sense of focus.
In a dog training routine, consistency is about using uniform instructions and a consistent schedule to set clear expectations and rewards. When you focus on consistency in dog training, it benefits you and your dog in many ways, such as:
Dogs pick up on various kinds of things. They communicate volumes through their expressive eyes, bodies and even barking. These emotions and responses occur due to specific brain structures common among mammals. The hippocampus in dogs impacts their learning and memory, while the amygdala influences their instinctive behaviors and emotional judgments.
Dogs can become too excited ― seeing a furry friend, meeting new people or witnessing a car passing by. A clear, consistent structure allows dogs to properly handle their emotions, calm their senses and help them stay focused, especially in situations they are not in control of. As such, consistency reinforces healthier, positive responses and reduces stress levels, making it particularly helpful among rescue dogs with trauma that results in negative behavioral patterns.
When there is consistency in cues and schedule, it fosters trust in your relationship with your dog. It helps dogs to predict our responses as well as theirs. Consistency prevents regression and undesirable behaviors among dogs. And while our training programs are highly effective, consistency is a big factor in long-term success.
Consistency sets the stage for fast, long-term success in dog training, and you can contribute to speeding up the learning curve. Here are some tips to help you maintain consistency:
At Off Leash K9 Training Maryland, we bring our expertise through different dog training methods. We train dogs of any size, breed or age. Our team of dog experts provides owners like you with the necessary knowledge and skills to learn how to train a dog properly. If you’re ready to transform your dogs into loyal, well-rounded companions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Let the bond with your dog be off leash.
March 29, 2024
Table of Contents Puppy Training Programs Dog Obedience Training Programs Behavioral Training Programs Board and Train Programs Therapy Dog Training Our Trainers Can Help You Choose the Perfect Training Program for Your Dog Whether you have a high-energy German shepherd or a cheeky Yorkshire terrier, dog training can give them the socialization and mental […]
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Whether you have a high-energy German shepherd or a cheeky Yorkshire terrier, dog training can give them the socialization and mental stimulation they need. However, with so many dog training courses to choose from, it can be challenging to find the best fit for your pet.
From puppy training to obedience classes, this guide gives you a helpful breakdown of the best dog training programs. You can then sign up with confidence and look forward to strengthening your bond with your pup or older dog.
While it’s certainly possible to teach an older dog some new tricks, it’s much easier to train puppies. Puppy training sessions help your new pet acquire skills such as basic obedience, confidence and socialization. If this is the first time you’re welcoming a dog into your household, puppy training programs will also help you learn what to expect from your pet. Learn more about the different puppy training courses we have on offer.
Puppies aged 10 to 20 weeks are welcome to join our Puppy Play and Train Program. By signing up, you and your puppy will benefit from two 60-minute intro and exit sessions as well as 12 full days of socializing and training. At the end of the course, your puppy will have mastered skills in the following areas:
In addition, our trainers will introduce you and your puppy to leash walking, crate training and agility work. This course offers a great foundation for further training and encourages healthy interactions with other dogs from the start.
It’s one thing for a puppy to obey a command in the comfort of your home — but the outside world is full of distractions. Our Group Puppy Obedience Training exposes your pup to different noises and smells, as well as people and dogs, helping them learn to follow commands in high-stimulation environments.
This program is suited to puppies between 12 weeks and 6 months and is held on Sunday mornings. Once your pup has completed six 60-minute training sessions, they should demonstrate basic obedience in public places.
If work commitments prevent you from attending training classes during the week, you may want to consider Private Training Lessons. The package includes five 60-minute training sessions. You can schedule them on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Aside from working through the puppy obedience and socialization basics, you’ll also benefit from personalized training tips from your experienced trainer.
If you’ve experienced the joy of raising a furry ball of boundless energy before, you may not want to sign up for an extended puppy training program. Our Puppy Consult Package is an excellent option for puppy owners who simply want to refresh their knowledge of obedience training.
During your once-off private training session, you and your new pup will learn the basics of obedience, manners and socialization. Working exclusively with our trainers also offers specific training advice for your pup’s breed and temperament.
Border collies, poodles and golden retrievers are some of the smartest dog breeds around — they require higher levels of mental stimulation to keep them out of mischief. Obedience training is an excellent way to keep your dog engaged while also ensuring their safety in public spaces. For example, instructing your dog to sit on the sidewalk while you wait to cross the road helps to keep them safe from oncoming traffic. If you’re interested in attending dog obedience training sessions with your pup or older dog, consider one of these options:
All our obedience training programs rely on positive reinforcement methods. By rewarding your dog for desired behaviors, you encourage them to repeat the behavior in the future. As you’ll need to practice the commands you learn at home, exploring different reward options for your dog is a good idea. Some common examples include treats, toys and even a game of tug. Many dogs have a high food drive, so high-value treats are often the most effective. Here are some ideas to try:
Obedience and behavioral training are distinctly different. Obedience training focuses on reinforcing certain behaviors, whereas behavioral training corrects bad habits. Behavioral training is a particularly helpful method for older dogs with established behavior patterns. However, some puppies may start to exhibit bad habits early on, and this training approach will help nip them in the bud. Dog behaviors that constitute problematic include:
Our Dog Aggression Training Package helps address these reactive behaviors and more. Over the course of six private lessons and three group sessions, you’ll work with our trainers to reinforce core commands such as “place,” “heel” and “off.” Once you’ve introduced these commands, you’ll use them to condition alternative responses. For example, if your dog tends to jump on you or your guests, reinforcing the command “place” will help them know where to go when someone enters your home.
At the end of the program, your dog will respond appropriately to triggers and threats. Knowing that your dog will react in a positive and consistent way helps pet owners feel at ease in public spaces.
Dog owners who choose one of our Board and Train Programs will book their dogs into our facilities for one or two weeks, depending on the course. During the specified period, your dog will undergo daily training to ensure reliable behavior in all environments. Some of the reasons why dog parents choose our Board and Train packages include:
If your dream is to have your dog accompany you on adventures to the park or beach, they will need to master recall. Our one-week Freedom Board and Train Program will achieve this essential learning outcome, allowing you to confidently let your dog off-leash in specified public spaces. In addition, our team will teach greeting manners and basic commands. We’ll also introduce the concept of “heel,” so you have the foundation to build good walking habits.
When you collect your dog at the end of the program, you’ll receive an E-collar and meet the trainer for a 90-minute session on how to reinforce the training techniques at home.
Two weeks may seem like a long time to be without your furry friend, but the results are worth it. Enrolling your dog in our Community K-9 Two-Week Board and Train Program will teach them appropriate responses to common mid-level distractions. For example, they’ll learn how to respond when someone knocks at the door or how to interact with other dogs at the park.
With this program, you’ll also receive an E-collar and a 90-minute training session at the end of the two weeks.
If you live in a busy metropolitan area, your dog will face a multitude of high-level distractions. These environments make it more challenging for dogs to obey commands, and there’s often a greater risk to their safety.
Our Urban Program will present your dog with various high-stimulation environments, such as busy airports, noisy train stations and crowded shopping centers. Extensive training in these environments will help your dog learn how to react in similar situations. In addition, they’ll learn how to hold an extended “sit” or “place,” so they don’t venture off into a busy road or onto the train tracks.
This program also includes an E-collar and a 90-minute private training session.
Aggressive or reactive dogs can unintentionally harm your home, other animals and even people. For this reason, you must correct this behavior as soon as possible. Our Aggressive/Reactive Program presents the most effective way to address problematic habits and condition alternative behaviors. By signing up for this board and train package, your dog will benefit from:
As with all our Train and Board packages, we’ll schedule a comprehensive 90-minute debrief session with you upon program completion. However, if you require a refresher course, we’re always happy to assist — free of charge.
According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), a therapy dog supports someone’s physical, social, emotional or cognitive needs. Therapy dogs frequently visit places like frail care centers, hospitals and hospices to bring comfort to adults and children. Unlike service dogs that are allowed to enter public buildings, therapy dogs have limited access. It’s best to research therapy dog regulations for your specific state so you know where they can and can’t go.
While you might argue that all dogs offer therapeutic benefits, they must first undergo training and assessments to qualify as a “therapy dog.” Off Leash K9 Training Maryland offers two courses for you to consider if you’d like to train your dog for clinical settings. Both courses are run by our dog trainers in Maryland who are certified canine behaviorists and AKC-certified evaluators.
If your dog has a calm demeanor and is affectionate with strangers, they’re probably a good fit for a therapy dog. By signing up for our Therapy Dog Development Program, your dog will participate in eight private lessons — four of which will focus on obedience, while the remainder will center on your dog passing the therapy dog certification.
In your sessions, you’ll work with experienced dog trainers in Maryland to gain a concrete grasp of five commands. You and your dog will also do extensive groundwork to ensure you’re ready to pass the therapy dog evaluation. At the end of training, your dog would have the standard obedience to be able to pass any certification.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) developed the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program to help all dogs be good dogs. Our Canine Good Citizen Prep course will help you and your dog prepare to pass the AKC CGC test. By signing up for this program, owners can enhance their dog’s obedience and establish a strong bond. The course assesses 10 skills along the following criteria:
If you’ve reviewed our puppy training, obedience and behavioral courses and are still coming up short, we’re here to help! Our expert team makes it their mission to recommend the best training program based on your dog’s nature and behavior. By signing up for the right course, you and your dog can enjoy many fun adventures together.
The Off Leash K9 Training Maryland team believes every dog is trainable. Whether they’re exhibiting problem behavior or you want to encourage better obedience, we’ll help you work through the relevant course. For more information about our programs, contact our experienced team of trainers for personalized advice on dog training in Maryland.
November 28, 2023
Engaging activities for puppies are essential for their mental and physical development. Here are some ideas for engaging puppy activities: 1. Puzzle toys Provide puzzle toys that require puppies to figure out how to get treats or toys out. This stimulates their problem-solving skills and keeps them entertained, which has been shown to decrease […]
Engaging activities for puppies are essential for their mental and physical development. Here are some ideas for engaging puppy activities:
Provide puzzle toys that require puppies to figure out how to get treats or toys out. This stimulates their problem-solving skills and keeps them entertained, which has been shown to decrease stress and anxiety. You can use puzzles during meal time to help them slow down and avoid inhaling their meals like a hoover.
Play a gentle game of tug of war with a rope toy or soft tug toy. This helps puppies release energy and strengthen their jaw muscles. Remember to establish boundaries and teach them to release the toy on command. It is a myth that tug playing will cause your dog to be aggressive. When played correctly it can improve impulse control, strengthen your bond, and provide mental stimulation while also tiring them out.
Hide treats or toys around the house or in the yard and encourage puppies to find them. This engages their sense of smell and provides mental and physical stimulation. Giving puppies a healthy and constructive way to channel their natural instincts to hunt, track and trail will help them become more balanced and behaved while also giving them a confidence boost. Off Leash K9 Training offers nose work classes for dogs of any age; you do not need obedience training to join this program.
If your puppy enjoys water, set up a shallow kiddie pool or sprinkler for them to play in. This can be a fun and refreshing activity, especially during hot weather. Puppies have a young immune system; having them in a safe controlled water environment will help minimize the risk to parasites and bacteria that can be found in lakes, ponds and other bodies of water.
Once your puppy has had the required shots, take your puppy for walks in different environments, such as parks and nature trails. This helps with socialization and keeps them curious and engaged. Socialization is more than just meeting people and other dogs. It is exposing your dog to as many different sights, sounds and smells as you can.
Desensitizing is all about variety without overwhelming your puppy. Start with small and short exposure. Go to the park early in the morning when it isn’t very busy. As your puppy becomes more confident, you can build towards visiting during peak times. In our puppy programs, we focus on desensitization and exposure to help you raise a more confident, well-mannered dog.
Turn obedience training into a game by incorporating fun elements. For example, play “Simon Says “; with basic commands or have a mini agility course set up in the backyard. At your first puppy lesson, we provide you with many games and activities to keep training fun and engaging. A fun game you can play at home to strengthen engagement with your puppy is the Name Game.
The Name Game helps your pup with name recognition which is the foundation for your runaway recall. The name game and recall command are the only two commands we include your pup’s name for. For example, we say “Fluffy come” whereas for “sit” we just say “sit”, no need to add your pup’s name.
In the beginning stages, don’t wait for your pup to look at you in order to get the reward, get it to your pup. By doing this you will produce a reflex in your pup where they will automatically turn their head towards you to get a treat sooner. When your pup is turning their head towards you, you can begin to build distance, until you are across the room. Eventually, you and another person can call your pup from room to room.
When the Name Game is good inside, take it outside!
Arrange playdates with other well-socialized puppies for supervised play sessions. This allows them to interact, learn appropriate play behavior, and burn off energy together.
Remember to adjust activities based on the age, breed, and individual preferences of your puppy. Always prioritize safety and supervise any activities to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience for your furry friend.
Training a puppy can be challenging, as it is difficult to keep them engaged. At Off Leash K9 Training Maryland, we offer fully comprehensive puppy obedience training that includes a multitude of engaging activities you can utilize at home! Contact us today to enroll your puppy in one of our training programs.
October 5, 2023
Puppies are naturally playful and curious creatures, so training sessions can be a great opportunity for them to have fun while learning new skills. Here are some ways puppies can have fun during training: 1. Interactive training games: Incorporate interactive games into training sessions, such as hide-and-seek or fetch. This makes training more engaging and […]
Puppies are naturally playful and curious creatures, so training sessions can be a great opportunity for them to have fun while learning new skills. Here are some ways puppies can have fun during training:
Incorporate interactive games into training sessions, such as hide-and-seek or fetch. This makes training more engaging and exciting for the puppies, encouraging them to actively participate.
Here is a fun game to incorporate when playing a game of fetch. The Drop Game
There will be times when your pup will pick up something that he is not supposed to have. By Teaching your pup a simple cue, your pup will drop whatever he has in his mouth.
Step 1: You may use two toys or a treat stick.
Step 2: Placing one object behind your back, offer, the other to your pup to either tug or chew on.
Step 3. Once your pup has it firmly in his mouth, place the higher stake treat or toy under his nose. Once he figures he can’t have both in his mouth say “drop it” in a firm voice.
Step 4. Once he drops the object immediately mark “yes” and reward with the higher stake reward.
Use small, tasty treats as rewards for correct behaviors or successful commands. Puppies love treats, and this positive reinforcement helps them associate training sessions with a fun and rewarding experience. Here at Off Leash K9 Training Maryland we recommend beef liver treats since a lot of dogs develop into chicken allergies. Some dogs can be picky when it comes to treats. If you are struggling to find a high-value reward our trainers can offer some suggestions such as using their kibble.
Intersperse training exercises with short play breaks. This allows puppies to release pent-up energy and have a little fun before continuing with the training session. It also helps to keep their attention and motivation levels high. A good rule of thumb is 3-4 minutes per skill session.
Use toys as training aids to make sessions more enjoyable. For example, teach puppies to fetch or retrieve specific toys as part of their training routine. This adds an element of fun and playfulness to the training process. Safety is always a top priority. Our Trainers like to use balls that have openings to allow airflow in case of accidental swallowing. When choosing toys for your puppy it is important to purchase the right size to avoid injuries.
Training classes often provide opportunities for puppies to interact with other dogs and people. This socialization aspect can be a lot of fun for puppies as they get to play and learn alongside their peers.
Our puppy camp program is a great way to combine socialization and obedience training. Our Puppy Camp is on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday with drop off as early as 8:00 am and pick up by 5:00 pm. While your puppy gets to socialize all day with other dogs their age, they will also be taken out several times throughout the day to train one-on-one with a Professional Trainer.
Keep training sessions interesting by incorporating a variety of exercises and commands. Puppies enjoy the challenge of learning new things, and this keeps their minds stimulated and engaged.
Remember, while having fun is important during training, it’s also crucial to maintain structure and consistency. Balancing playfulness with discipline helps puppies develop good manners and behavior while enjoying the process.
Our training specialists are happy to help you identify your dos individual needs and get them into the training program that is best for them!