Our approach to training involves only using positive reinforcement for teaching a dog new behaviors. However, when it comes to addressing unwanted behaviors, we may employ all four quadrants of Operant Conditioning—positive reinforcement (R+), negative reinforcement (R-), positive punishment (P+), and negative punishment (P-)—tailoring our methods to the severity of the behavior in question. It’s important to note that our foremost concerns are the dog’s well-being and the effectiveness of our training strategies, in that precise order. Should we conclude that training may not be the most effective approach, our strategy will pivot towards providing the dog’s parent with advice and support on managing the dog’s behavior more effectively.

During puppy training and the teaching phase of obedience training, we introduce the dog to new skills and commands using a positive, game-based approach. To incentivize the dog, we use food, toys, and affection.

Obedience commands are proofed, and boundaries are set with clear communication using voice, body language, and/or leash.

Read our book and the articles on our Urban Dog Wellness blog to learn more about our dog training philosophy and to understand the “why?” behind everything we do.

We’d also suggest reading  our Substack article: “Beyond Treats and Praise: The Harmful Results of All-Positive Dog Training.”

For more details, contact us and we will get back to you shortly.