Our Training Philosophy
Sophie Trains follows a "balanced" training approach, meaning we use a variety of tools and methods to help you achieve your training goals. At its base, our training is focused on holistically changing a dog’s mindset instead of providing band-aid solutions to problems. In our sessions, we will use play, positive reinforcement (rewards), mental stimulation, structure, and obedience to bring out your dog’s happiest and most cooperative self.
(Any training tools or collars necessary can be purchased separately by the owner or purchased along with the training sessions for an additional cost.)
There is a lot of controversy about training tools in the dog training world, and it can be hard to sift through all the information available. Please take the time to read through the following information about the training tools and methods we use, and let us know if you have any questions.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is at the basis of our training. Simply put, positive reinforcement means rewarding the behaviours you like to see. This aspect of training is essential in creating positive associations with things your dog might be averse to, and in building your dog’s engagement with you. Your dog’s daily food or a high value treat like chicken or cheese, along with play and affection, can be used for positive reinforcement in training.
Play and Confidence Building
Play is one of your dog’s innate needs, and fulfilling that need for your dog will make a happier and more balanced pooch overall. In our training sessions we will work on building your dog’s play drive, confidence, and cooperation through play, to help you achieve your training goals.
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Training Collars
Training collars such as prong collars, slip leads, and e-collars provide you with an increased ability to communicate with your dog. They provide clarity in your training and provide meaning to the word “no” so your dog can learn the appropriate rules and boundaries it needs to live a safe and fulfilled life. They are safe and harmless when used correctly. Generally, we recommend that all dogs start on a prong collar and progress to an e-collar if pursuing off leash obedience, but you can talk to us about your specific goals!