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1st Choice Dog TrainingOur method of training involves consistency and reward. Show the dog what you want him to do and then praise him for doing it. We use very small milk bone dog biscuits because they are good for the dog's teeth and do not usually add weight to the dog. We gradually decrease the amount of the "reward" as the training advances. We ask that you do not feed your dog treats for being cute; your dog must earn all his treats during his training (usually two to three weeks). This makes the reward method more effective. It is also a good idea to continue to use the treats only as a reward for good behavior after the training is completed as well. Important: Please do not feed your dog for several hours before his training session, and try to have him "relieve" himself prior to the appointed session time. This allows the trainer to concentrate his time entirely on the training. Also, do not run him into exhaustion prior to his lesson. If he is worn out from running or playing, he will be too tired to do his training properly.
Normally, the only equipment used will be a collar and a leather leash. Occasionally a "Haiti" collar may be used. If you do not have a leather leash, you may purchase one from 1st Choice Training. Just check with your trainer. Please listen carefully to your trainer during your sessions. Do not hesitate to ask any questions you may have. Your trainer will work with you and your dog, teaching the commands to each of you so that both of you understand what is expected. It does not do much good to train the dog and not the owner. Normally, only one person trains with the dog to avoid confusing him. If more than one person is to be involved, please notify your trainer at the beginning of your sessions. Please inform us ahead of time if your dog is sick or if you have to change your appointment time. Your dog should be brushed and fairly clean prior to training and it is important that ALL SHOTS be up to date. Dogs learn by repetition and you need to work your dog also during his training. Try to practice away from distractions at first. Remember that two short practice sessions are better than one long one. Your dog's attention span will depend on his breed, age, and size. Check with your trainer if you have any questions. After you have completed a work session, relax and play with him for a few minutes, but remember to always keep work and play sessions separate. Your dog must learn the difference between work and play or he will not respond to commands as needed. Your dog has excellent hearing so your vocal commands should be given in a normal tone of voice. Occasionally a firmer tone may be necessary, but remember that shouting does not get your message across to him any more clearly than quieter, firm commands. Consistence and patience are required, and are the methods used by your trainer. Your sessions should be a continuance of these same methods. You should know where your dog is at all times. You should also be aware of the potential danger to people (and your dog) if you permit him to run at large. There is a high amount of litigation against dog owners who allow their dogs to roam. You are already showing you are a responsible owner by having your dog obedience trained. About your training sessions with your dogBe consistent. Do not let your dog sleep on your couch one day and punish him for doing it the next. Enforce the rules you establish. Be fair. Do not expect your dog to behave like the neighbor's dog that has already had three obedience courses. Do not expect your puppy to behave like an adult. Each breed has its own area of expertise. Once your dog has been trained and understands his commands you will be proud of him too. Be honest. Before you blame the dog for any shortcomings, ask yourself "have I done what is necessary with him?" (Do not expect him not to go to the bathroom in the house if you have been gone for 20 hours.)
Remember the three P'sPersistence: If at first you do not succeed, try again and again. Patience: The virtue of Saints. You may not be one, but you can aim for it! Praise: The reward for doing it correctly and the cornerstone of your relationship with your dog. Do not work your dog if you are ill or exhausted. You will not have the proper patience and it will reflect in your attitude. Wait for a better time. (However, do not put it off indefinitely.) Goals for Puppy TrainingThe success of these commands depends upon the age and breed of the puppy, as well as how much the owner works with it between sessions. Sit: The puppy will be taught to sit upon command. Automatic Sit: The puppy should sit each time you stop walking when heeling. Heel: The puppy should walk at your side, and sit each time you stop. Stay: The puppy should go into a stay position and maintain it for a few minutes. (If you work on this on a daily basis you can increase the stay time as the puppy ages.) Come: The puppy should come (at least most of the time) when ca1led. Down: The puppy should go into a down position when commanded to do so.
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Sessions are canceled in bad weather. (Snow, ice, rain, too hot, too cold, windy, etc) 
Be realistic. Do not give a command that you are not in a position to enforce.