The clicker method is usually easier for the dog. The "click" sound marks the
behavior at the exact moment it is happening (if the handler does is
correctly). It's easier for the dog to hear than the word command and the
"click" sound stands out better than our words. Just think how many times we
humans say the words "yes" and/or "good" in everyday conversation. The dogs
hear our voices all the time. They rarely hear a "click" noise, so it is
easier to associate it with the behavior and the reward. The dogs think "hmmm,
everytime I hear a "click" sound, I get rewarded!". They tend to perform
better with the clicker.
I don't see any reason why a SMALL dog couldn't use a harness, instead of a
collar for training. The old methods of training required collars because the
handler would physically force the dog into a sit or down, ect. But, now
people know better than to use that method of training. So, a harness should
be able to be used in any class now. They discourage the harness for larger
dogs because it teaches pulling but for small dogs it is a must because of
their fragile necks. I would question any dog trainer that would recommend a
collar for training a Chi.
Dog training classes are usually 6 to 7 weeks long. Yes, they do cram lots
of info into the classes. The idea of the classes is to demonstrate to you and
the other dog owners how to train the behaviors to your dogs. The rest of the
training is done at home throughout the rest of the week until the next class.
Most of the training is done at home, not at the class. The class is meant to
show you how to do it.
The first class is probably longer than the others because they may go over
certain things that will be taught throughout the program. As far as getting
your dog socialized with others (people and dogs), it's a good start. She
needs to be properly exposed to other people and dogs in order to feel
comfortable around them. Plus, the trainer will be able to help you with any
behavior issues you may be dealing with. Just be VERY careful around the other
dogs in the class since you have a Chi. There are larger dogs out there who
have never seen a tiny dog before and may be aggressive or think of the Chi as
prey. Please don't let any strange dogs approach your Chihuahua.
Also, I personally do not like Petsmart for training classes. The trainers
are not required to have previous experience. Most were not trained in dog
behavior so they are not as knowledgable as some other trainers in different
schools. Also, I have found that their prices are about the same as some of
the better dog schools out there anyway. That, of course, is just my opinion
and experience. I am sure there are lots of people who found Petsmart classes
to be great.
Stef
Sheila Babcock <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Could someone explain to me the difference between the clicker
method and word comand with praise. I'm confused. The trainer at Petco says
it's just the lazy way of training even though they do both. Haven't registered
for either class as yet. Raina is 6 1/2 months old.
Do the insist on using a soft collar or can you train with a harness? They
only do 6 weeks of training for $99.99 and seem to cram alot in that time. The
do more that just sit, stay, come, down, heel, no. The use the yes instead of
clicker method. First class is 1.5h others are 1 hour. Does that make sense.
Will this help her intergrat more with people? She great with us but growls if
someone else she doesn't know tries to pet her.
Thanks
"Mandy F." <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Oh my, that's a lot. I really want to take Daisy to classes. The
locla dog club has classes for like $75 I think. It's such good exercise for
both of us!
-Amanda-
On 3/28/07, Barbara Littlefield <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: I
just signed the contract for $109, that is for eight lessons at Pet Smart, in
Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Barbara & Raul
----- Original Message -----
From: dasha48
To: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, March 27, 2007 3:17 PM
Subject: RE: [Chihuahuas] Re: petsmart training
I will need to do the basic before the clicker. But the clicker is what I
want to work up to. If you don't mind me asking, where are you located and what
do these sessions cost?
TIA
Sheila
---------------------------------
From: [email protected] [mailto: [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of
cmaloney26
Sent: Tuesday, March 27, 2007 3:40 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: [Chihuahuas] Re: petsmart training
Hi! I am in the Petsmart training right now and it seems to be
working...slowly. The clicker training is supposed to teach your up a
command rather than your voice. My lil guy seems to be doing pretty
good, but much more practice is needed still!!
Catie
--- In [email protected] , "dasha48" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
>
> Has anyone ever used the petsmart training classes? They have beginning
> classes, then the clicker training, then other more advanced stuff.
>
> Sheila
>
Thank to all who respond.
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