Training Day 1

Success!!

Bruce's first training day was such a success that we can't wait for next Saturday. On his second lesson, we were so eager to go and practice the rest at home that the trainer had to remind us to relax. We were the ones more anxious and excited!!

But I love Better Dog.

They now transferred to their new office and training center just a yards away from Karrivin Plaza in Pasong Tamo Makati. They have a more modern, sophisticated and spacious facility. The main lobby has a huge area for training assessments, a well equipped grooming center and a posh reception area. Not to mention, their office is located near ATMS that you can't help but look around and purchase some of their customized toys and training tools.

Training started on time and we were led to a spacious, air-conditioned room complete with water dispenser and chairs for companions. Since I've enrolled Bruce in a private session module, we have the room all to ourselves. And the best part is that the trainer is focused only on him. I could ask as many questions as I want.

The training method relied heavily on food as a reward as we slowly embark on the "clicker" mode of training. Better dog gave me a sort of whistle that you press and makes this distinct clicker sound that the dog would recognize for a reward. It's not just your typical clicker, timing is key. As for the trainer, teacher Elsie is well versed, very articulate and has this positive vibe around her.

For his first day, he learned the name-call game, the walk with me and the Leave it then Take it lessons. For the first two lessons, it was sort of easy. Bruce did an excellent job of going to us and recognizing calling his name for a reward. For the Leave it - take it, it was a bit of a challenge. We had to leave something in front of us, his treat, then we would ask him to leave it until he asks permission from me by looking at me and ignoring the food. Bruce is extremely fast and food driven, so you could just imagine how I'd try to get to the food first. I thought we wouldn't pull through.

But we did!! After a few tries, I left the cheese in front of me and asked him to LEAVE IT. He immediately stopped in his tracks and went to me. At that moment, I was so happy I felt I wanted to cry. My sister and aunt couldn't help it. They screamed for joy.

I learned that with proper guidance, tools and approach, the dog will listen and learn. Eventually, he will know the commands and the next time he won't be doing it for the reward, but for the positive experience of your pleasure in him. The training will enhance your dog's trust in you and your belief in his capabilities.

After an hour's session, the trainer gave us a week to practice the lessons taught to prepare him for next week. We have to repeat the three lessons during breakfast, lunch and dinner time. It would be a piece of cake. Bruce was already doing sit, stays in front of us trainers and looks at us without commands. He impressed all of us.

There are important things that I've learned about myself and my dog.

For dogs:

• Never underestimate what they can do. At home you'd think they won't follow and just do whatever they want, but with proper tools, methods and repetition, you'll be surprised that dogs do recognize patterns, tone and they do follow!
• Dogs need time to relax before the lesson starts. They are naturally anxious and stressed in new environments. They should be allowed to walk around the premises first. One signal that they're okay is that they eat, play with you and roam around in a new territory. 
• Dogs need access to water in between lessons.
• Dogs need to be do their business before going indoors.
• Do not overfeed your dog when you're about to train him. They'll ignore you unless your dog is as food crazy as mine that he will eat anything, anytime, anywhere.

For Humans

• Load up with patience. Dogs are special but very different creatures. It's not like teaching a kid. Do not expect them to learn the trick fast. Repetition is key.
• It's not a walk in the park. You have to be aware of how exactly you train your dog. The tone of your voice, your position and your timing. Dog training is as technical as it gets! 
• Load up on treats. If your dog is as big and food driven as mine, you'd need like a whole jar of goodies
• Contain your emotions. Laugh and clap if you must but don't over-celebrate to the point of distracting the dog. 
• The dog needs a stern and reasonable owner. Do not be the passive one. They would defer to someone who has a controlled power.

Training is an added factor for your dog's welfare and development. It's not a must, but it's good to have. It does have its results and it does have its joys