Dog Training - Personality and Approaches

In a recent post I discussed how many factors can influence the development of a dog. While that post focused on aggression and breeds, I thought it would be good to discuss how those same factors impact training. In short, a dog's experiences in early life, experiences and interactions in any current environment, and genetics, all add to the development of each dog's unique personality. This is the reason I always tell owners that individual personalities are far more important than breed. Yes, breed is a component of a dog's personality, but is isn't the only component. It's usually NOT the most important component.

There is so much information online regarding training methods, techniques, and approaches that it can seem overwhelming to any responsible owner. What I find missing in most online information is how to adjust the offered information for a given personality type. In fact, most online sources will try and convince you that their method or approach is THE method or approach that will work with any dog. Does that seem reasonable? Consider too the number of testimonials that are given from owners who have used a singular method with only a handful of dogs (if that many). Are their views reliable? Is their information good counsel for your dog?

I think any good trainer will use a variety of methods and tools to help owners achieve their goals with a dog. For myself, I always spend time getting to know a new dog so I can tell as much as possible about its personality. A shy or anxious dog will need different approaches than one that is hyperactive or another that may be a bully. Trainers working with many dogs not only gain experience, but also a balanced and broader understanding of what these different personalities need to help each UNIQUE DOG move forward.

When a prospective client calls me I really don't offer precise information over the phone about what I will do with their dog. I offer information on how I run my sessions, let them know I will evaluate their dog so we can use our time together productively, and advise I use a variety of tools and methods. In the end I tailor a program to their specific abilities, goals, AND their dog's unique personality. All key components for progress in the offline world.

Remember - every dog's perfect online! - guy