Read about why our training method
is suitable for you.
Read about why our training method
is suitable for you.
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Register now for our class by
simply filling in the registration
form and email it to:
smartdog@puppylove.com.sg
How to recognise a good positive motivational trainer
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Are they certified?
Look for internationally certified instructors who are constantly upgrading their skills and continues to learn from internationally renowned practitioners in the field of positive reinforcement animal training.
The instructors should also be constantly in the midst of attaining certification from relevant bodies renowned for their dedication to spreading positive motivational methods which are non-aversive and 100% dog friendly.
Similarly, beware of trainers who attain their certifications from short courses or day seminars, or from schools that are not recognised internationally.
Do they have sound understanding
of animal learning concepts and
positive motivational training?
They should understand classical conditioning and operant conditioning theories, the different types of reinforcements and punishments, how animal learning happens, shaping, lure-reward training, clicker training and much more. They should also be able to consistently explain to you what any of the above theories mean.
Unfortunately there are trainers out there jumping on the bandwagon of positive reinforcement training without proper understanding of the scientific principles of animal learning and positive motivational training; yet they have come up with their own ways of explaining methods that sound logical to unknowing clients, so we do encourage you to scout the market for the best answers.
Will they allow you to visit the class?
They should have no problems allowing you to view on-going group classes whenever schedule allows and get a feel of their training methods.
Do they use aversives?
Beware of trainers who disguise aversives as positive methods of training. Any use of the words like corrections, jerk, pop with a choke chain or even a normal collar or head collar should raise warning bells. Just because a trainer uses treats and praise is not enough reason to qualify them as positive trainers. Similarly, just because a trainer is not using a choke collar does not mean that they are using positive methods.
There should be no force or compulsion, body manipulations or pain and fear instilled upon the dog. There is also no need for any head gear, leash or collar manipulations of any type to make a dog perform specific behaviors like 'sit' (except for the case of pulling on leash is a tool like a gentle leader head collar allowed).
For positive dog training, punishments are more about removing access to what a dog desires, similar to suspending your driving license after breaking a traffic rule; instead of instilling fear, pain or discomfort.
Do they know how to employ tools in the
right way?
They should understand how chew toys work, how clickers work, how a gentle leader works in helping to reduce pulling on leash.
Do some research to make sure the trainer is using those tools correctly. For example, when using a clicker, there is almost zero contact with the dog and you should not have to manipulate the dog into any position by force. All behaviors captured by the clicker should be voluntary in the physical sense, meaning you do not body handle the dog at all.
Are they able to give clear instructions and
demonstrations?
A good instructor will be able to give clear explanations and instructions during the lessons as well as demonstrate the plan well. There is little value in an instructor who has experience and competition medals but is unable to present a concept clearly to the class.
Do they guarantee results?
This is according to the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) - Because of variables in dog breeding and temperament and owner commitment and experience, a trainer cannot and should not guarantee the results of his/her training. However, an instructor can and should be willing to ensure client satisfaction with his/her professional services.
Just like how doctors cannot guarantee that you will get well, be careful of trainers who guarantee results. Professionally, it is not the right way to impose confidence on clients; instead, the best way of assuring clients is to guarantee that the trainer will do their utmost best to help the situation get better.
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Class Location
Our group classes are held at:
P.A.W Veterinary Centre
- Blk 112 Bukit Purmei Road #01-207 Singapore 090112
