Positive Humane Training

Positive Humane Training Methods and Practices

Pit Bull Synergy believes in the use of positive, and humane training methods only. Training practices based on an understanding of how dogs learn. We believe in reward-based training programs that focus on teaching dog owners’ positive methods for training their dogs. These training practices reduce the number of surrenders to shelters and rescues due to behavior challenges. It increases the bond between the owner and their pets. We believe in engaging the whole family, including adults and children, in dog training We believe in engaging the whole family, including adults and children, in dog training.​

Choosing the Right Dog Trainer​

If you search the internet for a dog trainer, you will find hundreds of options and different methodologies. These offerings range from group classes, individual 1:1 private lessons, popular board and train options, and everything in between. How will you know what is going to be the best fit for you and your dog? Below are some things to keep in mind when choosing a trainer. 

First and Foremost

First and foremost, dog training is an unregulated industry. Yes, you read that right! Virtually anyone can call themselves a dog trainer, with little to no knowledge on appropriate training techniques  and no actual formal education at all. This is sure to have lasting, and most often negative, effects on you and your dog’s future.

Secondly

Second, most people like guarantees, and often you will see dog trainers offering just that; a guarantee on results. There simply is no such thing when it comes to dog training. So how do you choose a trainer, and what should you be looking for? Start with reviewing a trainer’s credentials.

Many trainers have “lots of letters” after their name; quite often,  all that means is that they could study for and pass a test offered by an independent testing body. Lots of people can pass a test. However, this alone does not make them qualified to train or to work

with a dog, particularly if that dog has training needs that exceed basic foundations skills like “sit,” “down,” “stay,” “come.”  So, keeping in mind that dog training is an unregulated field and that credentials can mean little to no experience at all,how do you sift through the plethora of search results for “dog trainers near me?"

Think Positive

Start by looking for a dog trainer that is using positive and reward-based , ethical, and scientifically proven training approaches, according to the ethical guidelines and humane practices as defined by:

• The American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
• The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior
• The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
• The Pet Professional Guild

You can search out trainers in your locality through The Association of Professional Dog Trainers | APDT

The options listed above should narrow down your choices significantly. The next step is to begin the interviewing process. That’s right…you will need to interview your potential dog trainer. You can do this through direct questions and/or by doing your research. Watch out for terms such as “pack leader,” “alpha,” or “dominance.” Incidentally, your dog is not a wolf, and neither are you, so you don’t have a “pack.” Becoming an

“alpha” is not a positive thing, and your dog will never “plot” to take over your life through, “dominance.”  In addition, listen and look for the use of descriptive words like “pushy.” “Rude,” “stubborn,” “needing rules,” or anything similar. These are human attributes. These are words used to describe the behavior of people; dogs do not possess moral imperative. Period. These negative labels are unfair to dogs and imply

anthropomorphism and antiquated thinking on the trainer who uses them. A qualified positive-based trainer will not use these adjectives in their

vocabulary.

Look for a dog trainer who participates in continuing education

Look for a dog trainer who participates in continuing education, which is often required to maintain whatever credentials they hold, and check those credentials, as in an unregulated field; you may find someone who isn't being truthful about their certifications. Conversely, it is crucial

to understand that many dog trainers are self-taught. Just because a dog trainer doesn’t have credentials doesn’t mean they can’t help you. Interviewing a trainer may give you a clearer understanding of a trainer’s methodology. You should scan their website and/or social media pages, such as their Facebook page. Look through the pictures and videos that they share, and if you see leather and nylon collars or harnesses

being used, chances are they are using reward-based training methods.