Trainer in Kansas City Area

[KSdogowner]

So, I have been applying NILIF and working on focus at every opportunity. The challenge was to work with Sophie on focus while passing other dogs (safe distance of course) but that opportunity has not presented itself much. I am very careful to not set her up for failure by putting her into a overstimulated situation. However, when we had our session with the trainer (Maris) today, I was amazed at how well Sophie was doing. Maris brought her companion dog Havoc a handsome red/black GSD. We tested the following today:

Behavior with Havoc approaching
Behavior with Havoc being in close proximity
Behavior with Havoc playing with Maris (trainer)
Parallel walking with Havoc ..same direction but a small distance.

Sophie performed exemplary. I am beyond proud of her. There were no issues of aggression. We had a few bark here and there but that was more of a "I want to play with that other dog" bark. There was some pulling on the leash but that was my fault...was fidgeting with the treats and needed a third arm LOL. The pulling was very, very minimal and she responded quickly after the correction.

I don't know if anybody else is reading this but if so, I want you to know that NILIF WORKS. Another thing I am learning here is that our voices do not HAVE to be strict or authoritative sounding. Sophie responds much much better to my commands with a friendly voice. Well, yes, I am in training, too

Exercise for this coming week. Not overstimulate Sophie by constantly chatting with her so she can pick out the "special" voice commands. Too much chatter can wash out the potential of the commands. So, in other words, Elvi shut up more!! RFLOL

Anyway, I really am hoping somebody can benefit from these reports.

[4TheDawgies]

Originally Posted by KSdogowner

So, I have been applying NILIF and working on focus at every opportunity. The challenge was to work with Sophie on focus while passing other dogs (safe distance of course) but that opportunity has not presented itself much. I am very careful to not set her up for failure by putting her into a overstimulated situation. However, when we had our session with the trainer (Maris) today, I was amazed at how well Sophie was doing. Maris brought her companion dog Havoc a handsome red/black GSD. We tested the following today:

Behavior with Havoc approaching
Behavior with Havoc being in close proximity
Behavior with Havoc playing with Maris (trainer)
Parallel walking with Havoc ..same direction but a small distance.

Sophie performed exemplary. I am beyond proud of her. There were no issues of aggression. We had a few bark here and there but that was more of a "I want to play with that other dog" bark. There was some pulling on the leash but that was my fault...was fidgeting with the treats and needed a third arm LOL. The pulling was very, very minimal and she responded quickly after the correction.

I don't know if anybody else is reading this but if so, I want you to know that NILIF WORKS. Another thing I am learning here is that our voices do not HAVE to be strict or authoritative sounding. Sophie responds much much better to my commands with a friendly voice. Well, yes, I am in training, too

Exercise for this coming week. Not overstimulate Sophie by constantly chatting with her so she can pick out the "special" voice commands. Too much chatter can wash out the potential of the commands. So, in other words, Elvi shut up more!! RFLOL

Anyway, I really am hoping somebody can benefit from these reports.

you guys did REALLY WELL today! I can really tell you guys have been doing your homework and I am so proud of you two!! Keep up the great work Elvi!

[KSdogowner]

Originally Posted by 4TheDawgies

you guys did REALLY WELL today! I can really tell you guys have been doing your homework and I am so proud of you two!! Keep up the great work Elvi!

Thanks. I am glad I finally found the right trainer. So kudos to you and your canine companions Nina and Havoc.

[Razzle J.Dazzle]

I've been taking our puppy to Maris' puppy class. She's a wonderful trainer. Razzle is learning quickly and gaining confidence. Definitely looking forward to more advanced training.

Molly

[4TheDawgies]

Originally Posted by Razzle J.Dazzle

I've been taking our puppy to Maris' puppy class. She's a wonderful trainer. Razzle is learning quickly and gaining confidence. Definitely looking forward to more advanced training.

Molly

Glad to see you on here Molly! You will learn lots just by reading these threads
You and Razzle are doing so well in the class!

[vickip9]

Originally Posted by KSdogowner

Does anybody on this board know of a good Dog Trainer in the Kansas City area?

I know this is an old thread, but I was wondering if you could tell me who the trainer was that you used in the KC area. I am looking for one and I live in Overland Park, but am willing to travel anywhere in the KC metro area and beyond.


Thanks!!

Vicki

[KSdogowner]

Originally Posted by vickip9

I know this is an old thread, but I was wondering if you could tell me who the trainer was that you used in the KC area. I am looking for one and I live in Overland Park, but am willing to travel anywhere in the KC metro area and beyond.


Thanks!!

Vicki

Vicki, I sent you a pm.