Dog Training Methods
Our Philosophy
At Blue Diamond Canine, we utilize a variety of evidence-based and proven dog training methods and tools, so we can provide the best results for you and your companion. We strive to enhance the human-dog relationship through mutual respect, and improved quality of life.
Our dog training methods focus on inspiring dogs to perform positive alternative behaviors, instead of simply stopping unwanted ones. We offer a balanced approach with constructive options that maintain a proactive engagement.
At Blue Diamond Canine, we are committed to offering a training solution that helps maintain improvement when active training is reduced, and provides the dog with a sense of belonging and appreciation. These approaches prioritize the dog’s quality of life and the human-dog relationship, promoting a cooperative and fulfilling partnership within the family home.
Our Dog Training Methods: How We Use Them To Strengthen The Bond Between You and Your Dog
In our training we utilize the Cynopraxic Training Theory and LIMA Principles. This method realizes the intrinsic value of dogs, and focuses on improving the relationship between owner and companion. We have detailed the different principles of this method below, and we accredit this information to the original creator, Steve R. Lindsay, learned from his Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training (Volumes 1-3).
Cynopraxic Training Theory
At the heart of our training philosophy is Cynopraxic Training Theory, a method that focuses on the intrinsic value of dogs and aims to improve the relationship between you and your furry friend. The word “Cyno” refers to “dog”, and “praxis” means “to do”. Essentially, we are all about doing what is best for your dog, while strengthening the bond you both have.
This approach combines dog behavior science, learning theory, and real-world evidence, through the application of both rewards and consequences, to handle dog behavior in a way that is fair and safe for both owner and dog. Obedience training and play are key components of this approach, as they promote mutual understanding and cooperation between you and your companion.
The goal is to create a happy, peaceful life for both of you, where you understand each other better and live in harmony. Cynopraxic theory views behavior problems as obstacles, and we work to remove those obstacles so you and your dog can live a more fulfilling life together.
Obedience Training
One of the most important dog training methods we use is obedience training. Although this training incorporates things like teaching your dog to sit or stay, it’s more than that. This training is about fostering a mutual respect and understanding between you and your dog. Obedience training creates opportunities for bonding through shared activities, even including playtime. These moments help both of you appreciate each other, and work as a team.
The Trainer’s Role
As trainers, our job is to help resolve any conflicts in the relationship between you and your dog. Together, we will work through challenges and strive to restore harmony through training and counseling with you and your family’s cooperation. The goal is to help you and your dog build a more affectionate, trusting, and cooperative relationship.
This process often involves setting realistic expectations and creating healthy boundaries, for both your dog and for yourself as the owner. We will work to help you understand your dog’s behavior, and address any issues in a way that is both natural and effective. The goal is to always create an experience that is rewarding for your dog and improves their quality of life.
The “Dead-Dog Rule”
The “Dead-Dog Rule” is one of the most key parts of Cynopraxic Training. Essentially, this rule states that training should never focus on teaching the dog to do something a “dead dog” could do. For instance, you wouldn’t train a dog to not jump on people, because dead dogs don’t jump. Instead, you would train your dog to sit when people approach them, which is an action your dog can do, (and a dead dog would not be able to.)
This principle focuses on training your dog to perform alternative actions. We don’t want to just stop a behavior, we want to teach your dog a new behavior to replace it. Through this balanced approach, we offer your dog clear and constructive alternatives, which are much more effective than simply suppressing unwanted actions. This keeps your dog engaged, and helps them learn in a positive way.
LIMA (Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive) Principal
The LIMA principle advocates for using the least intrusive methods, ON THE HUMAN – DOG RELATIONSHIP, necessary to achieve training goals. This principle ensures we train in a way that offers the least negative impact on any positive relationship or bond that currently exists between you and your dog.
We strive to use the minimally aversive (uncomfortable) methods and tools necessary for corrections or negative reinforcement, ensuring we introduce them carefully and only when absolutely necessary. We always keep in consideration your concerns as the owner, and explain the methods thoroughly so you can understand how they benefit your dog and why we believe they should be implemented. We understand the importance of ensuring you are comfortable with these methods, as compliance is key to success. You being comfortable with the methods and tools used will ensure you can continue using them, as needed.
We always prefer to use positive motivation (rewards and praise), however, negative motivation (punishment and consequences) is helpful and often necessary for the long term mental and physical wellbeing of the dog. That’s where using the LIMA Principle guides us in weighing the practical and ethical considerations, then striking the right balance between positive and negative consequences for the long term success of a positive relationship with your dog.
Ethical and Competency Criterion
As a part of our methodology, our dog training methods and the use of any training tools and equipment, must always meet two important criteria:
The ethical criterion. – This means any training method that might make your dog uncomfortable (aversive) should be ethically used, if necessary, to improve their quality of life or avoid harm. Ethical criterion states that tools and techniques that sacrifice canine pleasure and freedom may be necessary to promote lasting benefits and avert harm and coordinated with quality-of-life enhancements. The goal is to provide the dog with a sense of belonging and appreciation, reduce isolation, and support friendly social engagement.
The competency criterion. – This means the trainer must be skilled enough to know when and how to use these aversive or uncomfortable methods effectively. Competency criterion states that procedures affecting canine pleasure and freedom must be sufficient, neither excessive nor deficient, to reasonably achieve the objectives set by the ethical criterion. We take training seriously, as it’s crucial to have an experienced professional on hand to guide you and your dog through the necessary processes.
Conclusion
Cynopraxic Training focuses on helping you build a positive relationship with your dog based on trust, respect, and understanding. We strive to understand and honor your dog’s preferences for pleasure by promoting methods emphasizing rewards, and reducing the use of punishment unless absolutely necessary (and ensuring it is used thoughtfully and effectively).
By following these principles, our dog training methods aim is to create a harmonious, joyful life for both you and your dog. With the right training, we can prioritize the dog’s quality of life, the human-dog relationship, and promote a cooperative and fulfilling partnership between your dog and your family.