THE MOTIVATIONAL METHOD

Welcome to the Motivational Method of training, a proven approach to teaching beginners. This method dates back to 1970 and while there are some who believe the -method is outdated, it has proven an effective and gentle method time and again for dogs of all ages.

The relationship between man and dog is complex and often suffers from poor communication.  Blending human and canine psychology into carefully structured programs, the Motivational Method helps bridge the gap between species.

With the ultimate goal of a happy, reliable dog, each exercise is broken down into easily mastered steps, each step building on the previous one.  Learning becomes easy and enjoyable, as complex chains of behaviours are mastered.  Starting with the companion dog whose owner wants basic control, training levels progress through to Utility training for CKC competition.

The Motivational Method systematically moves through three phases: teaching, practicing and testing.  Training the dog through positive reinforcement.  This training results in a dog that believes it can succeed, a belief that is crucial – without it, the dog cannot continue to learn and perform in a reliable, motivated fashion.

As the work becomes increasingly demanding, the dog accepts the challenge.  He has been taught that he will succeed, because at no time has he been placed in a position of failure.  The same applies to the owner.

Recognizing that clear communication is necessary for successful training, the Motivational Method places great emphasis on training the handler.  We are not training your dog – we are teaching you to train your dog.  Research into the psychology of how people learn is incorporated into every step of the training process.  Body posture, leash handling, tone of voice and an understanding of dog behaviour are skills taught to each handler, enabling him to achieve the training of his dog.

Our students complete their classes with a sense of accomplishment, an understanding of why their dog behaves the way he does and an improved relationship with their dog.

Puppy Kindergarten

Basic Obedience Classes

Advanced Obedience

Novice/Trial Prep Classes

Open Classes