German Shepherd K9 Training

01/04/2025

🌈 World Autism Understanding Day – 2 April 🌈

Today, we acknowledge World Autism Understanding Day. While this day has traditionally been called “Autism Awareness Day,” Autistic advocacy groups are encouraging a shift — from awareness to understanding and acceptance. And we’re all for it 💙

We believe in supporting neurodivergent people through personalised programs designed to meet their goals, not ours.

Most importantly, we work alongside Autistic individuals to create safe, structured, and empowering programs.

We understand that every person experiences the world differently. That’s why we don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. Our team takes the time to listen, adapt, and collaborate — creating a space where everyone feels seen and supported.

🧩 Let’s move beyond “awareness” and continue building a community of understanding, inclusion, and respect.

25/11/2024

Untrained Dogs
Are the Real Risk

06/11/2024

Choosing the Right Collar for Your Dog: An Evidence-Based Guide with Key Considerations

As a professional dog trainer, I’m often asked, “What collar or harness is best for my dog?” A recent study on leash tools—including standard collars, harnesses, head halters, and prong collars—offers insights into both pulling control and potential welfare impacts. Here’s an overview of each, along with considerations to be mindful of.

1. Standard Collars
Effectiveness: Standard collars offer moderate control but may not be the best option for dogs that pull strongly.

Concerns: For strong pullers, collars may place excessive strain on the neck, posing risks like neck injuries, particularly in dogs with respiratory conditions or smaller breeds with delicate neck structures.

2. Harnesses
Harnesses distribute pressure across the chest and shoulders instead of the neck. There are two types commonly used:

Back-Clip Harnesses: These prioritize comfort and are great for casual walkers. However, they may be less effective for dogs that pull.

Front-Clip Harnesses: Designed to help manage pulling by gently redirecting forward movement, front-clip harnesses can aid in training, though some dogs might need time to get used to them.

Concerns: With both types, improper fit or use can lead to chafing or restricted shoulder movement. Choosing the right harness for your dog’s build and behavior is important to avoid discomfort.

3. Head Halters
Head halters are effective for controlling pulling by guiding the dog’s head. This approach helps with strong pullers or larger dogs, as the redirection of the head makes forward movement challenging.

Concerns: Some dogs may find head halters restrictive, especially if not introduced gradually. For sensitive or high-energy dogs, rushing into head halter use may cause discomfort, so training and acclimation are recommended.

4. Prong Collars
Prong collars are designed to create evenly distributed pressure around the neck when the dog pulls. While effective for quick pull control, they have raised welfare concerns.

Concerns: Studies link prong collars to potential stress and discomfort, leading to welfare concerns. Due to these impacts, prong collars are banned in Victoria and certain other regions. If you think about this type of tool, please be aware of regulations and consult with a trainer to understand alternative options that prioritise well-being.

Making the Right Choice
Each tool has distinct features, effectiveness, and potential risks. Selecting a collar or harness should be based on your dog’s specific needs, behavior, and comfort requirements. Consulting a professional dog trainer can be invaluable in choosing the best tool, ensuring proper fit, and using equipment in a way that supports your dog’s well-being and leash-walking progress.

Reference:
https://peerj.com/articles/18131/

12/09/2024

The Use of E-Collars in Dog Training – What Does the Research Say?

As an exercise scientist and dog trainer, I believe in evidence-based approaches to both human and canine training. When it comes to using e-collars in dog training, opinions are divided. While I typically don’t recommend e-collars for most dogs, it’s important to share the latest research so owners can make informed decisions.

Recent research by Johnson & Wynne (2024) compared the use of e-collars to food rewards in stopping dogs from chasing a lure. Their study found that dogs trained with e-collars stopped chasing within two 10-minute sessions, whereas those trained with food rewards did not refrain from chasing, even after five sessions. Importantly, dogs trained with e-collars showed no significant signs of stress or long-term welfare issues, aside from immediate reactions like yelping during the shock.

This suggests that in the hands of experienced trainers, e-collars can be an effective tool for preventing dangerous behaviors, such as running after cars. However, it’s crucial to understand that using e-collars requires expertise to avoid potential harm.

When considering e-collars, it’s vital to prioritize your dog’s well-being and seek professional guidance if needed. Positive reinforcement methods, when used correctly, remain a safer and more welfare-friendly option for most pets.



(Source: Johnson & Wynne, 2024).

04/09/2024

02/09/2024

An amazing result for all of Australia’s dogsport enthusiasts👏🏼

15/01/2024

Pet Models Wanted!

Are you keen on having your pet featured in a portrait? How about receiving a one-of-a-kind custom portrait, beautifully painted in 8"x8"? If so, this opportunity is perfect for you!

To enter:
🐾 Follow
🐾 Tag friends who would love to have their pets painted
🐾 Share this post to your story

The search concludes on 29/2/24, and selected applicants will be contacted.

Best of luck!
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18/10/2023

Have you wondered what breeding pedigree dogs is all about? It starts with knowing the basics and mechanics of what responsible breeding is all about.

Published in 4 languages, more information about this topic is available from the complete booklet via the following links:

English -https://www.fci.be/medias/FCI-B-S-Why-Choose-a-Registered-Breeder-en-ZIP-14108.pdf
French -https://www.fci.be/medias/FCI-B-S-Why-Choose-a-Registered-Breeder-fr-ZIP-14111.pdf
German – https://www.fci.be/medias/FCI-B-S-Why-Choose-a-Registered-Breeder-de-ZIP-14112.pdf
Spanish –https://www.fci.be/medias/FCI-B-S-Why-Choose-a-Registered-Breeder-es-ZIP-14113.pdf



www.fci.be

11/05/2023

I recently had a training session with Jamie who took a photo of Blaze and surprised me with this lovely painting

08/05/2023

Opinions on training tools around the world can be rather polarising. There’s strong evidence when training tools are used correctly such as e-collars there’s clear and effective communication to the dog that results in less stress. This video demonstrates correct use & effective communication.

Jerome almost lost his life, then he almost lost his dog. February 2023 Jerome suffered two strokes, alone at home with his dog, Karl. Jerome had adopted K...

19/01/2023

Thought provoking video. We all need to learn to understand correct use of training tools. Banning training tools based in ideology isn’t the answer.

01/12/2022

Suns out tugs out.