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Training is an essential part of responsible dog ownership. All dogs should have the basics to ensure they are reasonably well mannered.

Like with most things, there are many schools of thought. With Hamish I originally opted for a school that’s training methods were strictly positive reinforcement. This works very well with certain dogs — unfortunately, not with mine. The premise of this training method is to reward positive behviour. The only problem is that they do not always instruct you on how to deal with negative behaviour except for avoiding situations that contribute to it. For example, if your dog likes to eat poop out of the cat litter box, simply make the litter box inaccessible.

I actually found that this style of training made Hamish’s behaviour worse. There were no consequences for ill behaviour, and trying to anticipate each and every potential situation that could trigger bad behaviour was impossible.

I opted to try a different training method. Scott Taylor of Hollywood North Canine Training and Talent came very highly recommended. I contacted Scott and had a lengthy discussion about his training methods and how they may combat some of the types of problems I was having with Hamish. The basis of Scott’s training methods is also motivational and positive. The difference is that through a variety of exercises the dog learns that the master is the ‘alpha dog’. These exercises include down stays on boxes that are exactly the length of the dog’s body (no sneaking away slowly) and lots of work with dumbbells. The theory behind the dumbbells is that once you control the dog’s mouth, you control the dog.

Since Scott has a kennel, and I was going out of town anyway, I opted for the “Boarding and Training” package. This package included staying at the kennel and several training sessions a day. Some of the training was conducted in Vancouver to reinforce the commands amidst the usual distractions found in the city. The package finished with Hamish and I reviewing the commands, scheduling at home practice and signing up for ongoing lessons at the community centre.

All in all it was definitely money well spent. I have since run into many folks at various dog parks around the city who also found Scott to be a lifesaver. Hamish regularly stays at the kennel — he gets so excited when we arrive he doesn’t even look back to say goodbye. This let’s me know that his experiences there have been positive.

Scott teaches obedience classes at many of the Community Centres around Greater Vancouver. You can reach Hollywood North Canine Training and Talent at 604-738-1568.