We follow the LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) procedure for dog training established by The Association of Professional Dog Trainers. (To learn more about LIMA, click here .) We train all of our dogs using evidence-based training methods that are enjoyable for us and them. We do NOT use force, pain, or fear in any part of our training as it violates our personal ethics and professional training principles. Furthermore, research has revealed that not only are force-free techniques highly effective, but using fear and pain can be detrimental and dangerous for dogs of all sizes. Therefore, we have never used shock collars, prong collars, yelling, or other aversive methods.

Instead, we focus on positive reinforcement.

Here are some of the ways we help our dogs become perfect pets:  

• Teaching basic obedience commands
• Taking time to learn their interests and motivations 
• Socializing them with people, dogs, and other pets 
• Building trust and developing bonds through calm and consistent human interaction  
• Giving them a safe, comfortable environment to learn in 
• Exploring the underlying reasons for their behavior 
• Addressing the underlying problem as well as the behavior 
• Desensitization Techniques 
• Conditioning and Counter-Conditioning 
• Luring with Treats and Toys

Rather than constantly correcting them for what they do wrong, we focus on rewarding them for what they do right! With this approach, we can easily replace unwanted behaviors with desirable behaviors.