Different Training types

[sandra11]

Hi all, I just wondered what the general thoughts of these 2 training methods are, which are most prefered. I'm in Australia, and I had been going to one that uses "Choker training", but I am about to start one that uses "reward or food based" training. Any comments about these?
Thanks

[Goldenmom]

You will get lots of different opinions here. I will tell you mine. I have raised 2 Goldens and they are very obedient. I used positive training only and I believe this is the way to go. The chokers have caused damage to Trachs in pups and I would not recommend you use it.

The positive reinforcement training is treat training, coupled with Clicker training THere are all kinds of articles on the web about these. It has worked well for me and when I take in foster dogs, I use the same training with wonderful results. Around our area here, this is the only training recommended.

Here is an excerpt from my training facility.

Techniques

We'll teach you how to communicate your rules to your dog while enhancing the relationship between you and your pet. We'll help you learn how your dog learns and how you can take advantage of ALL the good things you provide to get the behavior you desire.

We use only non-force, motivational training resulting in a trusting relationship and bond between you and your dog.

Now training can be Fun, Effective AND Humane for both you and your beloved four footed friend.

Motivation skills make the rest easy. Your dog will look forward to training sessions and you will leave the frustrations behind. Emphasis is on the foundation of training creating good manners AND obedience.

Heather

[Dee_petlover]

I'm in agreement with Goldenmom. A lot of training methods will work, but positive reinforcement methods in the end often make behaviours more reliable. Clicker training helps get precision in the behaviour you want because it gives you a method of fine tuning a behviour using shaping.

A really good book on clicker training is "Clicker Training for obedience" by Morgan Spector.

[Dee_petlover]

Here is a link to a site with information on clicker training.

http://www.clickertraining.com/home/index.htm