Affinity Dog Training FAQ
Should I train my dog ?
Well there is a saying in the dog world, “untrained is unknown”
While many reasons can be discussed, they essentially fall under two categories:
- Prevention of unwanted behaviour
- Rehabilitate unwanted behaviour.
For more discussion you can read up here:
Is all dog training the same ?
No, not at all. While there are some common themes and elements such as consistency being key, there are some important differences. Affinity dog training is based on relationship building and establishing a common language that does not rely on treats. This is an important distinction, MANY dog owners report their dogs only follow commands when they have treat handy. The dog should listen to you regardless of if you have a treat or not. (especially the not)
How do I know this is the right method for me and my dog?
If you’re looking to enjoy a close, rewarding relationship with your dog then Affinity Dog can help. Our highly effective tonal language methodology keeps you in control of your dog’s behavior. A trained dog is a happy, calm dog, and a pleasure to have around.
Can you train anxious or aggressive dogs?
Affinity Dog has rehabilitated anxious dogs i.e. on vet-prescribed Lovan and Adaptil pheromone collars. Our method is based on relationship and respect, which is highly effective for dogs with emotional disorders. A dog’s anxiety reduces when its mind is exercised and it understands its boundaries. Anxious dogs respond to our highly effective voice language methodology, which is kind but firm.
Aggression can also frequently stem from anxiety. Affinity Dog’s tonal voice methodology, along with behaviour shaping methods, is effective on dogs that display aggressive or reactive behaviours towards other dogs or strangers. If the dog is extremely or overly aggressive (especially human aggressive) we would have to discuss first before committing to any training.
The dog is not too bad, just needs a couple of behavior issues fixed up -can you help ?
Sure – however usually we find there are some other items on the list that people have “learnt to live with”
Problems big or small can be addressed.
It should be pointed out that we address the dog as a whole, not just one or two “issues” at a time.
You don’t want to get into a cycle of playing “whack a mole” with the dogs problems. ie. as you work at resolving one, another issue comes up or gets worse.
As we address the whole dog, if other issues come up they can be dealt with more easily as the foundation is already established.
Is my dog too old or to young ?
Dogs as young as 10 weeks can be trained and we have trained dogs as old as 11 years, so age is not an issue.
Should I be involved ? Do I have to be there ? (Private in-home training)
Absolutely – it’s your dog, and building a relationship with the dog is vital.
I’m not sure which Program or Delivery method to choose – Help ! ?
We can advise on which program may be most appropriate and can also conduct assessments of the dog to guide you better in this decision.
I am not in the Hills district. Can I still have my hand-back lesson for a Board and Train ?
Yes, with the handback lesson, we can travel for between 60-75 minutes, so most of Sydney Metro would be fine and we have done some handbacks outside the Metro area.
Will you send me some video or photos during the training period? (Board and Train)
Yes, we provide short progress reports including a picture every 48-72 hrs.
Should I use treats ?
As mentioned above, people often find if their dog is trained with treats, the dog expects them on an on-going basis. By NOT using treats you avoid a whole lot of issues down the track. An important aspect for consideration is that the dog should be listening to you, not looking for a treat.
My dog won’t listen to me, like – I’m serious, they really won’t listen to me, can they be helped ?
Yes – this again is not an uncommon situation. A big part of establishing leadership is getting the dog to listen to you.
My dog is a “Rescue” is that ok ?
Sure – we have worked with a number of Rescue dogs. Sometimes they are easier to train than your “normal” dog.
Someone told me my dog needs to be on drugs/medication (or worse even consider being “put down”), can the dog be helped ?
Very probably – there is sometimes a propensity to put dogs on drugs where all that is required is some proper training and behaviour modification. Let us know what the situation is and there’s a good chance we can help.
You can read more here:
What breeds do you train ? or Are there any breeds that are not trainable ?
All dog breeds are welcome, some of the Dog breeds we have trained are below, this is not a complete list !
You may notice some “hard” or “problem” breeds are listed.
Doberman, Poodle, Cavalier King Charles, Cocker Spaniel, Labradors, Heeler, Beagle, Boxers, Rottweiler,
Maltese, Ridgeback, Lhasa Apsos, Miniature Pinschers, Samoyeds, Whippets, Alaskan Malamutes, Keeshonds,
Airedale Terriers, Husky (lots), St. Bernards, Mastiffs, Pugs, Newfoundlands, Koolie, Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Staffies)
Chihuahuas, Schnauzer, Border Collie, German Shepherds (GSD)… along with a myriad of cross breeds.
All breeds can be trained – donʼt ever accept advice to the contrary!!!
How do I get started ?
CONTACT US NOW AND TELL US ABOUT YOUR DOG ! or Enroll here.
Some of the areas we regularly service – if your not listed please still contact us.
The Hills – Annangrove, Baulkham Hills, Beaumont Hills, Bella Vista, Box Hill, Carlingford, Castle Hill, Cherrybrook, Dural, Glenhaven, Glenorie, Kellyville, Kenthurst, Maraylya, Maroota, Nelson, Northmead, North Rocks, Rouse Hill, West Pennant Hills
Blacktown and surrounds – Acacia Gardens, Dean Park, Doonside, Glendenning, Glenwood, Kellyville Ridge, Kings Langley, Kings Park, Lalor Park, Marayong, Marsden Park, Oakhurst, Parklea, Quakers Hill, Schofields, Seven Hills, Stanhope Gardens, The Ponds, Toongabbie, Vineyard, Riverstone
These are some of the areas we provide dog training for in Sydney – if you are not listed, please still contact us ! The Hills – Annangrove, Baulkham Hills, Beaumont Hills, Bella Vista, Box Hill, Carlingford, Castle Hill, Cherrybrook, Dural, Glenhaven, Glenorie, Kellyville, Kenthurst, Maraylya, Maroota, Nelson, Northmead, North Rocks, Rouse Hill, West Pennant Hills Blacktown and surrounding areas – Acacia Gardens, Dean Park, Doonside, Glendenning, Glenwood, Kellyville Ridge, Kings Langley, Kings Park, Lalor Park, Marayong, Marsden Park, Oakhurst, Parklea, Quakers Hill, Schofields, Seven Hills, Stanhope Gardens, The Ponds, Toongabbie, Vineyard, Riverstone
