Dog training

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We only use methods that are recognized and supported by the top training experts in the field of behavior modification and learning theory. Our training classes are all progressive, science-based, positive reinforcement techniques that are proven effective and reinforce (versus damage) the canine-handler relationship and bond.

Any kind of punishment-based, corrective training, such as training that involves choke chains, prong collars or leash corrections. These methods are not science-based, humane or effective. Do they work? In the moment, yes. But they are painful, unnecessary and damaging to your relationship with your dog. These techniques also fail to produce long-term results and require that you forever painfully correct your dog. They give the illusion of being effective because they work in the moment (through instilling fear) but in terms of long-term change and progress, they are completely ineffective.  Since these techniques aren’t humane, necessary or effective in creating long-term change, we don’t use them!  Our rule of thumb:  If it doesn’t feel good to do and your dog isn’t excited about it, we don’t do it! 

Most dog training classes teach owners how to control their dog in class, and teach a few predetermined commands. However, owners often leave without the in-depth knowledge on how their dog thinks, learns, and feels, which is required for a successful, happy relationship.

Our classes actually teach owners to understand how their dog processes thought and learns from his environment so that guardians can continue their learnings after they leave the classroom. Our classes welcome the distractions that will help them apply the commands they learn to real-world experiences such as going to the vet, walking through the park, or having guests over.

Our classes simulate those real-world experiences so that owners leave feeling confident that they know how to control their dog during highly distracting and difficult times. Too often we hear people say “Sure, they did it in class but then guests came over and he couldn’t focus!”  Well, no more! Our classes focus on these type of difficult distracters so owners feel confident and excited about training in all situations!

Yes! Gone are the days of training with the “Because I told you so” mentality. This was recommended by trainers back when we knew very little about canine learning and motivation. Using the “because I said so” mentality when training is like someone telling you to work without a paycheck “because they said so.” Does it work? Maybe – if you punish enough when they do not offer the behavior. But it’s not the best and most clear, humane training style. Dogs learn and are motivated in the same way we are. The way to get the most reliable, trusting and obedient dog is through a system of teaching them to earn what they want in life through being attentive, well behaved and offering a behavior when their owner asks. To do this, we use food, toys or praise as a motivator to encourage dogs to happily, and quickly, give us the behavior we’ve asked. Another benefit: this motivates dogs and reinforces our relationships with them.

The opposite is actually true. We use a great system to help teach handlers how to use food when teaching a behavior but then slowly, and effectively, wean off using food. Using our system, behaviors will be more reliable and you won’t have a dog who only listens when you have food or when there are no distractions. Similar to how children in kindergarten classrooms get stickers for making good choices, doing good things and listening to the teacher, we use treats in the learning phase to increase motivation and create good behavioral habits. However, by 6th grade, our kids no longer need stickers for cleaning up their toys. We know now that dogs learn in very similar ways and by accommodating their learning style, we create more trusting, reliable dogs.

Please note: Dogs who are reactive to people or have bitten are not appropriate for any of our group classes, and should look into individual training.

All of our classes are designed with the safety and comfort of all dogs in mind. For everyone’s sake, dog-reactive dogs, must first take Reactive Rover course first, and then be approved by a trainer to take other classes offered at HSHV (including basic manners).  Reactive Rover includes dogs that growl, excessively bark or lunge at or in the presence of other dogs. Reactive Rover is for people-friendly dogs only. If your dog shows aggression toward people or has bitten or done damage to another dog, please seek private instruction.

If your dog must be removed from a class due to aggression or reactivity, you may forfeit your registration fee.  An attempt to fill your spot will be made and a partial refund will be issued when possible. We would encourage you to add your information to our Reactive Rover waitlist if your dog meets the class criteria.  If you have any question about which class you should be in, please first contact a trainer before you sign-up.

Dogs who are reactive towards other dogs are often in a heightened state of stress the entire time during a traditional training class. Those dogs cannot learn effectively in a class with up to 8 dogs while they are lunging, barking and growling at other dogs in the area. Reactive dogs can also make learning difficult for dogs near them who are being barked or lunged at. This is why we offer Reactive Rover classes which are small classes with no more than 4 dogs at a time. The small learning environment and state of the art, science-based training curriculum ensures that reactive dogs will get what they need and that the rest of our classes can remain calm, safe places for those dogs who do not struggle with reactivity. We thank you in advance for welcoming this great, low-stress model for running canine classrooms. Regardless of where your dog falls on the scale, he/she will thank you as well.

Yes, we welcome, and encourage, any and all family members who will be working with your dog to come! We recommend only one child per adult (if there are more children in the family, they can rotate).

We encourage a commitment to attend all classes. In the event you may miss a class, please contact the trainer to let them know and to receive any missed material. Class registrations are non-refundable.  We cannot refund registrations or missed classes.

Reactive Rover students MUST be able to attend ALL sessions, as they build upon one another and other participants depend on your participation. If you miss more than one class, we regret we’ll need to remove you from class and cannot issue a refund.

Please check the class dates and requirements carefully. We cannot issue refunds for enrolling in the wrong class. If you need to disenroll, please do so as soon as possible by writing dogtraining@hshv.org.

If you’re already enrolled, please email your trainer. If not, please email us at dogtraining@hshv.org.