WHAT AND WHY???
Ronan in stand/stay position
Simply stated, a release command is a command of your choosing that you teach your dog to let him know that the exercise he is performing is finished. Think of it like work: you are the boss and your dog is to work until you say the work time is over. It’s all about leadership – you give the command and your dog is expected to execute that command until you “release” him from the exercise.
Real case scenario: imagine you are in the kitchen and you drop and break a glass on the floor. Your dog comes running in to see what’s going on. You’ve done some training so you quickly say “Sit. Stay”. Your dog gets into a sit/stay position. Then, imagine your dog gets up when he feels like and walks through the broken glass? For your dog’s safety, he MUST learn to execute the command until released!
Praise (“Good dog.” meaning “You’re doing a great job, keep it up!”) and reward (a small treat) must be given WHILE your dog is performing the exercise. Many owners want to lavish petting on their dogs during training. Caution: petting may be too stimulating for some dogs, causing them to become distracted and wiggle out of position. I recommend to either eliminate or dramatically reduce petting during training. Instead, rely on verbal praise.
Ronan & Jake sit/stay
I cannot express how important a release command is especially if you like to train using TREATS. Treats can be an excellent tool used to teach your dog new commands or tricks. But if your dog takes the treat and then gets up automatically you will forever have a dog that ONLY works for food. This is a HUGE mistake that so many make. Eventually, wean your dog off of the treats and teach a release command. YOU must say when the job is finished and your dog can take a break.
Some examples of release commands are “OK!”, “Free!”, “Break!”, but you should teach your dog a release command that you like that only has one meaning: that the exercise is finished. I try to teach my clients to look away for 3-5 seconds after releasing their dogs from exercises. This accomplishes a couple of things:
1) there is no further attention given to your dog immediately after the release command has been given. Why? If you release your dog and he gets up and then you pet and praise your dog, you are putting all of the attention on his getting up. Basically, you are rewarding your dog for getting up and not for performing the exercise! Make the most of your training time by giving attention during the exercise NOT after! Remember, dogs are creatures of the moment – they associate praise (and correction) with what they are doing at that immediate time.
2) when you look away after releasing your dog it leaves them wanting more training from you. This is a great way to keep your dog’s attention and keep him in “work -mode”. The more your dog is in “work-mode” the more interested he will stay in training, which means you will get more accomplished!
Dogs & cats on stay
So, to sum up the order of things during a training exercise, it’s PRAISE, REWARD, and RELEASE. Make sure your release command is loud and clear, and don’t feel the need to repeat it. Sometimes your dog has heard the release command and is relaxed enough to stay in that position anyway. That’s perfectly acceptable as long as You have released HIM!
Make the most of your training and have FUN! Remember, it’s not over until YOU say it’s over!
Stacie and Ronan
Reasons to take a Class with Royal Canine Dog Training LLC
/0 Comments/in Uncategorized /by info@royalk9.comPerfect stay during class
Stay.
Student heeling her dog
Come.
Wait.
Sit.
Down.
Heel.
Problem solving.
Pup cleans up after himself!
Socialization.
Solutions.
Fun!
Please join us. Hoping to start next week or the week after especially at Pet Valu in Florham Park! Please see previous blog for upcoming dates and courses. The website will be updated soon! All new – EVENTUALLY you will be able to sign up directly through the website and pay by credit card! Lots of new things are happening! Until then, please email me for more information. Stay posted for details!
Stacie & Ronan
Rottie graduates class
Training Classes Update
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I am happy to announce that I will be offering classes at 4 locations! I am working on at least one other, but won’t know for a month or so. The confirmed spots are: Florham Park, Morris Plains, Chester, and Long Hill Township (Millington).
Florham Park: Pet Valu 187 Columbia Turnpike in the shopping center near Panera Bread, CVS and the Post Office. Classes are scheduled to start Wednesday 5/6 at 6 and possibly 7. These will probably both be Beginners classes, although I hope to offer more advanced in the future. It is possible that one of those classes is a Beginners Refresher. In June Saturday classes will be offered at 11:15am.
Morris Plains: Jen’s Mutt Hutt on Rt. 53 Morris Plains/Parippany. Near Hoover’s Tavern and across the street from Community Animal Hospital. This will probably be a beginners class, and hoping to advance. The dates and times are TBA.
This dog needs Royal Canine Dog Training!
Chester: Jen’s Mutt Hutt Too on Perry Street in Chester. This will probably be a beginners class and hoping to advance. The scheduled starting date is Tuesday 5/5 at 6 and possibly 7. If there is enough interest in a daytime class on Mondays I would be love it!
Long Hill Township: 300 Old forge Rd. outside of Basking Ridge. This will be an advanced refresher class lasting 3 sessions. The scheduled starting date is Saturday 5/2 at 9:30. This is only a 3 week refresher course. ($75)
Stacie Heeling Elsa P.
More updates will be following and additional details including course descriptions will be on the website, hopefully by the end of this week. With the exception of the Long Hill class, each course is for 6 weeks with each class lasting 45 minutes. The cost is $155. Please email me if you think you & your dog are ready for the more advanced class in Long Hill.
Please note that each location has a different maximum number of students. As for all courses, if the minimum number of students is not reached the course could be postponed.
Paperwork and requirements for the classes will also be available on the website in the near future as well. Aggressive dogs are not allowed in group classes and must be addresses privately. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact me by email: info@royalk9.com or phone: 201-207-5342.
dog sitting pretty
Please email me if you think you are interested in any class at any location. Let me know what level you think you and your dog are capable of. It helps me to plan which classes to offer! If you’re not sure contact me and I will help you figure it out.
Elsa’s staying with bone on nose.
I’m really looking forward to getting back to group classes!
Please spread the word and thanks for your support!
Stacie
8 week Henry practicing “LOOK”
New Training Classes TBA!!!
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Please stay tuned for announcements on upcoming classes! I am so happy to be able to offer group classes again in a few locations.
Details are being worked out so please check back frequently so I can keep you posted.
I’d like to ask anyone interested to send me a private email to let me know what training level you are interested in and what town you live in.
Off leash sit stay
Please spread the word to all of your dog friends!
There are many options – Beginners, Intermediate. Advanced, Spring Refreshers, Indoors and Out, and even Semi-private lessons for you and a couple of friends. I will be teaching all classes.
Please let me know what you are interested in and I’ll try to accommodate your needs.
Class sizes will vary based on location. I generally cover Morris, Union, Essex, and Somerset Counties with my in-home training and would love to get a few people interested to offer classes near you.
PLEASE tell all of your family and friends and please share this on your social media sites – the more dogs and people we can help the better!
Which dog is not real?
Thanks!
Stacie & Ronan
TICKS!!!
/0 Comments/in Uncategorized /by info@royalk9.comPLEASE talk to your vet and determine the best approach to dealing with these pesky critters that spread so many dangerous diseases.
In addition, brush and comb frequently, and pet – yes pet your dogs, especially in the opposite direction of the hair growth. This is how all 4 ticks were discovered on Ronan!
tick remover
Make sure you have a good tick remover and understand the proper way to safely remove ticks.
It’s an unfortunate reality but totally avoiding coming into contact with ticks is nearly impossible, especially if you spend any time outdoors. Take precautions and minimize the dangers associated with ticks so you and your dog can safely enjoy this wonderful weather!
Stacie & Ronan
Enjoying a Warm Day (for a change)
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Yesterday we were so happy to enjoy a preview of spring-like weather. Ronan had such a blast. We hiked, frolicked, and even took a minute to practice our recall (see video above)! It was a gorgeous day and I’m so glad we got out to enjoy it.
Fun in the park
Take advantage of each warm day to get outside and practice some commands with your dog. It doesn’t take much and every little bit counts!
ANNOUNCEMENT! I’m preparing to teach some group classes in the area this spring! I can’t wait and I’m looking forward to seeing you and your pooch! Locations, dates and times will be announced soon. More details to come, but I plan on offering Beginners, Refreshers, and Advanced classes. Some will be indoors and hopefully some out. We hope you will join us!
Please spread the word and tell anyone interested to contact me so I can provide information.
Let’s get our pups ready for spring!!!
Stacie & Ronan
Keep It Clean!
/0 Comments/in Uncategorized /by info@royalk9.comAs spring approaches I want to make a brief but important note about cleaning up after your dog. No one LOVES to pick up dog poop, but it is important for many reasons:
Baby Ronan caught in the act!
1) Aside from being the right thing to do, it’s your responsibility if you own a dog. Many townships and cities will fine you if you are caught not picking up after your furry friend.
2) It eliminates the possibility of someone stepping in it and dragging it all over – into cars, onto carpeting, not to mention the mess it makes in the treads of your shoes – YUK!
3) It is important for good health. Keeping your dog’s potty area clean promotes good health for the environment, good health for you and your children, and good health for your dog. Many parasites and diseases can be spread through dog feces, and some of those ailments can be transmissible to you and your family.
Enjoy the great outdoors with your pup and remember to KEEP IT CLEAN! We all thank you!
Hugs to the pooches-
Stacie & Ronan
Spring is Here!!! (almost)
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After being cooped up all winter, we are all ready to step outside and spend some time in the delightful warmer weather, right? But what happens when we bring our dogs outdoors – will they forget the training that we previously taught them? The answer is no, but we may need to remind them of what our expectations are.
Our dogs will be excited to enjoy the great outdoors with us, but that excitement could lead to some unwanted social behavior. As soon as you have a nice day and a few free minutes take your dog outside and review all of the commands that you’ve taught him. Depending on your dog (and you) you may want to start in an area with less distractions then gradually add more.
I recommend using a 50 foot line (start with less then work up to being 50 feet away, depending on you and your dog’s skill level) and practice all of your commands. Gradually add distractions. The line is your connection to your dog so that he can’t run off and you can still correct if he makes a mistake.
Lunch training session
Every spring I take my own dog out in the front yard and work him on a long line. I pay attention to the joggers, bikes, and other dogs being walked. I especially review stays, waits, recalls, and relaxed downs. My dog is social to people and other animals, but it is my requirement that he does not go to visit unless he has my permission. I live on a busy road so Ronan’s safety takes top priority. I’ve always said, one of the main reasons why we train is to keep our dogs safe!
Don’t forget about taking your dogs to new places to practice. Now a days many restaurants allow dogs to be in their outdoor dining areas. It’s so great to teach them to be calm around people and food. Be creative – spend a few minutes outside of a mini-mart where people are constantly coming and going. What a wonderful place to practice stays! Plus, they will have to learn that not everyone will take the time to pet them :).
You only need a few minute at a time to review and remind your pooch of your expectations: good behavior and listening skills no matter where you are. Just because you have been away from working outside doesn’t mean that you no longer require his response outside. Give these wonderful creatures the credit they deserve. They do not forget, they respond to your absolute requirements. Remind them that good behavior, which includes listening to you, is a part of life that will last forever – as long as you require it!
Sit stay on the beach
Hugs to the pooches!
Stacie & Ronan
Don’t Eat the Snow!
/0 Comments/in Uncategorized /by info@royalk9.comYes, dogs can get sick from eating snow. What seems like a harmless romp in the snow can turn into horrible consequences for your dog (and you) unless you are aware of a few things. There are a couple of reasons why this can occur.
First, there can be dangerous chemicals lurking in those innocent-looking flakes. Different types of products are used to de-ice roads and melt snow. Assume that your town uses something on the roads that is NOT safe for your precious pooch. The chemicals can irritate his paws and causing licking. If your dog ingests these dangerous chemicals it can lead to diarrhea and vomiting, which can be signs of further bad things happening inside his system.
Second, dogs who like to play in the snow can really start to heat up and a mouthful of cold snow may feel good and quench his thirst. Dogs often like this cooling, hydrating feeling and some start to prefer eating snow to drinking from their own water bowl. It can actually become a habit that’s hard to break but there can be a downside. Cold snow hitting the warm belly can cause some aches and pains, and too much can cause illness.
We all love to see our dogs having a good time in the now. For some, it really helps us get through the dreary days of winter. Always think of safety first. Make sure you offer plenty of warm-up breaks and give fresh water when your pooch decides to romp around in the snow. Never let your dog drink from puddles of melted snow – they could contain toxins. When you come inside wash off your dog’s paws with warm water and gently dry. If your dog appears ill after playing in the snow your veterinarian should be contacted to make sure that the obvious symptoms aren’t overshadowing a more serious problem. You might also need to contact the Pet Poison Helpline.
I may sound a little over-protective but I just want to make sure your wonderful companions’ playtime leads to nothing more than a good, long nap!
Hugs to the pooches,
Stacie & Ronan
The Importance of a Release Command
/0 Comments/in Uncategorized /by info@royalk9.comWHAT AND WHY???
Ronan in stand/stay position
Simply stated, a release command is a command of your choosing that you teach your dog to let him know that the exercise he is performing is finished. Think of it like work: you are the boss and your dog is to work until you say the work time is over. It’s all about leadership – you give the command and your dog is expected to execute that command until you “release” him from the exercise.
Real case scenario: imagine you are in the kitchen and you drop and break a glass on the floor. Your dog comes running in to see what’s going on. You’ve done some training so you quickly say “Sit. Stay”. Your dog gets into a sit/stay position. Then, imagine your dog gets up when he feels like and walks through the broken glass? For your dog’s safety, he MUST learn to execute the command until released!
Praise (“Good dog.” meaning “You’re doing a great job, keep it up!”) and reward (a small treat) must be given WHILE your dog is performing the exercise. Many owners want to lavish petting on their dogs during training. Caution: petting may be too stimulating for some dogs, causing them to become distracted and wiggle out of position. I recommend to either eliminate or dramatically reduce petting during training. Instead, rely on verbal praise.
Ronan & Jake sit/stay
I cannot express how important a release command is especially if you like to train using TREATS. Treats can be an excellent tool used to teach your dog new commands or tricks. But if your dog takes the treat and then gets up automatically you will forever have a dog that ONLY works for food. This is a HUGE mistake that so many make. Eventually, wean your dog off of the treats and teach a release command. YOU must say when the job is finished and your dog can take a break.
Some examples of release commands are “OK!”, “Free!”, “Break!”, but you should teach your dog a release command that you like that only has one meaning: that the exercise is finished. I try to teach my clients to look away for 3-5 seconds after releasing their dogs from exercises. This accomplishes a couple of things:
1) there is no further attention given to your dog immediately after the release command has been given. Why? If you release your dog and he gets up and then you pet and praise your dog, you are putting all of the attention on his getting up. Basically, you are rewarding your dog for getting up and not for performing the exercise! Make the most of your training time by giving attention during the exercise NOT after! Remember, dogs are creatures of the moment – they associate praise (and correction) with what they are doing at that immediate time.
2) when you look away after releasing your dog it leaves them wanting more training from you. This is a great way to keep your dog’s attention and keep him in “work -mode”. The more your dog is in “work-mode” the more interested he will stay in training, which means you will get more accomplished!
Dogs & cats on stay
So, to sum up the order of things during a training exercise, it’s PRAISE, REWARD, and RELEASE. Make sure your release command is loud and clear, and don’t feel the need to repeat it. Sometimes your dog has heard the release command and is relaxed enough to stay in that position anyway. That’s perfectly acceptable as long as You have released HIM!
Make the most of your training and have FUN! Remember, it’s not over until YOU say it’s over!
Stacie and Ronan
FUN IN THE SUN!!!
/0 Comments/in Uncategorized /by info@royalk9.comYes, I know the weather’s been AWFUL, to say the least…but here is something to take your mind off of it. Enjoy! XO Stacie & Ronan