What is "positive reinforcement-based" training?
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Positive reinforcement-based training means the trainer uses positive reinforcement as the key training methodology. I avoid using systems that cause undue pain, stress and/or anxiety. This is the most effective and humane path to a well-behaved pet. Other terms for this type of training are "R+," "positive," or “pet-friendly."
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What is reinforcement?
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Reinforcement is anything that makes a behavior more likely to reoccur. For example, getting a good review from your boss makes it more likely that you'll continue to give your best effort at work. For my cat, getting a piece of dried salmon when she sits makes it much more likely that she'll sit in the future.
When determining what our pets might find reinforcing, it's important to see things from their perspective; what is reinforcing to us may not be to them. For example, many pets do not like being hugged. They may tolerate it, but that's not the same as enjoying it. On the other hand, many of us love to hug our pets. It's very reinforcing to us. If your pet doesn't care for it, it’s not reinforcing for him. He may even see it as a punishment! When working with your pet, I'll pay particular attention to find out what genuinely motivates them. What kinds of treats or toys work? What kinds of petting and play do they like? Once identified, we'll have a great arsenal of reinforcers to use |
Won't all this positive reinforcement just spoil the pet?
Not at all. Positive does not mean permissive. Reinforcement only comes when the pet does something we like. It's the best way to ensure the ideal (desired) behavior becomes the norm for your pet.
Why do you use food? Isn't that bad for my pet?
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Food/treats are a commonly used reinforcer for training because pets have a built-in desire for food. We may have to teach our pets to enjoy and value toys or praise or other rewards which are part of our training. It is also easy to deliver quickly, an important consideration when training—timing matters!
When using food, it's important to: • keep it as healthy as possible (i.e., the healthiest food that will motivate your pet); • make it something your pet really likes/loves; • use only tiny amounts (the size of your little fingernail or smaller). Tip: use your pet's daily meals as training treats. Instead of feeding him in his bowl, use your pet’s kibble as reinforcers while training for desired behaviors. |
Won't using food mean I'm stuck carrying treats around forever?
No! Once a behavior is learned, we teach your pet to expect treats only occasionally. A complete training program always includes this step.
What is LIMA?
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LIMA stands for "Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive." It means that the trainer will strive to implement the "least intrusive, minimally aversive technique likely to succeed in achieving the training objective with minimal risk of producing adverse side effects." (Steven Lindsay, Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training Vol 3) LIMA protocols are created to be the most humane. It is also associated with the lowest incidence of aggression, attention-seeking and fear/anxiety in learners of all species.
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I'm getting a puppy. When should I start training?
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Training should begin as soon as puppy comes home. Start with a socialization or playgroup as soon as possible. Make sure any playgroup your puppy participates in is overseen by professional trainers well-versed in appropriate puppy play. A puppy can learn simple commands as young as 6-7 weeks so by the time you bring them home, they will be eager to learn. Your puppy soaks up information from every experience, so postponing training means missed opportunities to teach your new pet the desired behaviors you ultimately expect.
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Should I enroll my puppy in a class, or do private lessons?
Both are great options. Puppy classes are a fantastic way to begin your pet's education. If you can't find a good puppy class that fits your schedule, or you prefer to train privately, you can still give your pup everything he needs. A knowledgeable trainer will cover all the essential puppy basics, with the bonus of being convenient and customizable. Nirvana Tails offers customized Puppy Packages. Let us know what you'd like your pup to learn, and we'll tailor a training program for you and your new pet.
Are playgroups helpful?
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I’m an advocate for professionally-run playgroups. Many in the city charge a minimal fee or are free. Playgroups provide valuable opportunities for your new puppy to learn socialization skills that only come from exposure and play with other dogs. Remember to find a playgroup overseen by a knowledgeable professional. They should have a thorough knowledge of what healthy dog-dog play looks like, and when it’s necessary to intervene.
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Can cats be trained?
Yes! Cats get a bad rap. People think they can’t be trained and feel stuck with any behavior problem that manifests. Not true! Cats can learn new ways too. Positive reinforcement works to encourage the behavior you want (such as only scratching the post you've provided) and discourages behavior that's not desirable (like scratching your sofa). You can also use behavior modification techniques to help your cat get over her fear and/or anxiety
Remote training is a great option for cats. I offer coaching and support through Zoom. I've found it to be just as effective as in-person, and often moreso--cats are on their own schedules, and may not feel like working at the time of our appointment. And some cats won't want to meet me at all! This is particularly useful for cats who are afraid of new people.
Remote training is a great option for cats. I offer coaching and support through Zoom. I've found it to be just as effective as in-person, and often moreso--cats are on their own schedules, and may not feel like working at the time of our appointment. And some cats won't want to meet me at all! This is particularly useful for cats who are afraid of new people.
What is the best way to start training my kitten?
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The importance of early socialization is becoming common knowledge in the dog lover’s community—and it’s just as important for kittens. Effective early socialization can mean the difference between a friendly, social cat and one who spends most of their time under the bed. You can also get a head-start on desirable behaviors, such as allowing all types of handling, and proper use of a scratching post. Kitten training can be done remotely via Zoom.
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Why hire a trainer? Can't I just get everything I need from books and the Internet?
There are certainly excellent books and websites out there that can help you train your pet (See Recommended Resources). It can be difficult to take things from the printed page (or screen) and implement them correctly. If you have any difficulties or are new to pet training, I recommend seeking out the help of a professional trainer, especially if your pet has a behavior problem.
Training can come in the form of classes or private lessons. Classes can be terrific for learning manners--specific things like sit, down, stay, etc.--but usually don't deal with behavior issues unless expressly stated. Classes also offer the fun of learning with others. Private lessons can deal with behavior problems as well as manners, provide one-on-one, undivided attention, and can be customized to your pet.
Whether you choose private lessons or a class, make sure the trainer knows exactly what you're seeking help with so they can advise you appropriately.
Training can come in the form of classes or private lessons. Classes can be terrific for learning manners--specific things like sit, down, stay, etc.--but usually don't deal with behavior issues unless expressly stated. Classes also offer the fun of learning with others. Private lessons can deal with behavior problems as well as manners, provide one-on-one, undivided attention, and can be customized to your pet.
Whether you choose private lessons or a class, make sure the trainer knows exactly what you're seeking help with so they can advise you appropriately.
What happens in a private training session?
That depends entirely on you and your pet. We I may teach your pet new behaviors, and show you how to put them on cue and maintain them. We I may help you improve your pets' manners by reinforcing what we want and removing reinforcement from what we don't want. We may need to change your pets' emotional response to something using behavior modification techniques. It all depends on what you and your pet need.
That's why I start by taking a history. The more I know coming in, the more help I can provide. During our Initial Consultation, I will gather additional information from you, and observe your pet. I take all the information collected from the history, our conversation, and my observations, and arrive at a recommended training plan. Any remaining time is spent starting to put the plan into action. Finally, we agree on how many lessons you'll need to meet your goals.
That's why I start by taking a history. The more I know coming in, the more help I can provide. During our Initial Consultation, I will gather additional information from you, and observe your pet. I take all the information collected from the history, our conversation, and my observations, and arrive at a recommended training plan. Any remaining time is spent starting to put the plan into action. Finally, we agree on how many lessons you'll need to meet your goals.
What type of certifications do you have?
I’m a Certified Professional Dog Trainer—Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. The CCPDT is a leading independent certifying organization for the dog training profession, and they require certificants to demonstrate mastery of humane, science-based dog training practices. To maintain their certification, a trainer must complete the required continuing education units, thereby making sure they’re up on the latest knowledge and techniques about humane training.
I have received a certificate (with distinction) in Advanced Feline Behavior from International Cat Care and the International Society of Feline Medicine.
I am also a Fear Free Certified Professional. This means that I have studied how to help pets be cooperative in their own care, and I must complete continuing education requirements to maintain my certification. To learn more about the Fear Free initiative, go to https://fearfreepets.com/.
In addition to the above, I am a Professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
Please Note: Information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional guidance or advice. We recommend consulting a professional trainer before implementing any training or behavior program.
I have received a certificate (with distinction) in Advanced Feline Behavior from International Cat Care and the International Society of Feline Medicine.
I am also a Fear Free Certified Professional. This means that I have studied how to help pets be cooperative in their own care, and I must complete continuing education requirements to maintain my certification. To learn more about the Fear Free initiative, go to https://fearfreepets.com/.
In addition to the above, I am a Professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
Please Note: Information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional guidance or advice. We recommend consulting a professional trainer before implementing any training or behavior program.
