Belgian Malinois Dog Training | Azula | Garden Grove, CA

OffLeash SoCal
3 days ago
15 min read

Azula, a Belgian Malinois from Garden Grove, CA went through the Balanced Canine Training SoCal Board and Train dog training program. Azula was trained by Jose Ayala in Compton, CA.

Azula came to Balanced Canine Training SoCal with varying behavioral issues, including pulling on the leash, squirrel chasing, jumping up when greeting, counter surfing, generally not listening to commands, and barking at strangers. Balanced Canine Training SoCal was successful in transforming Azula into a well-managed pup.

The dog trainers at Balanced Canine Training SoCal are here to help you and your dog be as amazing as our before and after videos!

Pupdates:

Meet Azula! She is a two year old Belgian Malinois who has joined us for our Two Week Board and Train Program. Azula came to us knowing some commands, but needs some reconditioning to help her follow through. She is friendly with other people, but can be reactive towards other dogs. She also has a tendency of picking up items within her reach and will not let go. The goal for Azula is to have better manners, as well as a better recall and structured walks. Over the next fourteen days, Azula will be working on her behavior and be set up for success with the hopes of becoming a well mannered pup. Check in to see her progress!

Azula and I concentrated on her recall exercise known as come to sit. This exercise is designed to have Azula approach my right side, navigate behind me, and then settle down on my left. To enhance her understanding of this sequence, I utilized leash tension as a guiding tool, which helped her grasp the desired behavior. Azula demonstrated comprehension of the task and adapted to the instructions, but still had some trouble as she would not sit when she came to my left. To work her through it I utilized slight leash tension by pulling up, and slightly pressing on her lower back to guide her into the sitposition. Once Azula began showing consistency in executing the command, I introduced verbal cues, specifically “come,” and "sit," alongside leash tension to further reinforce her behavior. She still needs more practice but the training session went well, as she is learning to respond, indicating her understanding of the cues being presented. She did very well on the car ride home, and she is adapting to her new environment for the next two weeks. I look forward to working with her as we embark on her training journey and have her become the best pup that she can be.

Azula and I went out for a walk around the neighborhood. Our walk served not only as a leisurely outing, but also as an important training session focused on establishing a bond and enhancing Azula’s obedience skills. Throughout our walk, I noticed Azula exhibiting behavior where she would slightly pull ahead of me wanting to smell the grass. To address this, I began working on her heel command, which requires her to walk beside me on my left side. This command is crucial for ensuring that she remains focused and close during our walks, thereby fostering a safer and more enjoyable experience for both of us. To reinforce the concept of heel, I employed a technique where I would stop walking when Azula pulled away from my side. This method involved making a U-turn and guiding her back towards my left with appropriate leash tension. This approach not only helps Azula understand the desired position, but also teaches her the importance of maintaining proximity and attentiveness to my movements. While she is doing very well mastering this skill, I will be incorporating the heel command into every walk moving forward to solidify her understanding and compliance.

Azula and I have been working on place. Place is an essential command that serves to establish boundaries and promote desired behaviors in various situations. This command instructs Azula to go to a designated spot such as a bed, mat, or a specific area of your choosing, and remain there until given further instructions. Teaching Azula place not only enhances obedience, but also contributes to a more organized and calm environment, making it useful in managing guests, meal times, or moments when she needs to be settled. To teach place effectively, it is important to focus on the principles of leash pressure and positive reinforcement. Initially, I used the leash to guide Azula to the designated spot we practiced on which was my place box. As I approached the box with her, I applied gentle tension on the leash to encourage her to move forward. When Azula stepped onto it, I immediately released the tension on the leash, signaling that she has made the correct choice. Timing here is crucial, so the moment she made contact with the box, she was immediately rewarded with praise and affection. Using a cheerful tone of voice, petting, and verbal affirmations like "good girl," helps reinforce this positive behavior. Once Azula began to understand the association between the leash pressure and the verbal place, I gradually increased the duration she remained there. Consistency is key in this training process, so with regular practice sessions at a park or in the home, combined with patience and positive reinforcement, it will help Azula understand the command fully. Over time, I will introduce distractions gradually while she maintains the place command, ensuring that she learns to remain in position regardless of environmental changes.

Understanding the dynamics of canine obedience and training is crucial for fostering a well behaved dog, and a significant aspect of this process involves preventing a dog from anticipating commands like Azula did with her place command during our session. When a dog learns to anticipate a command, it can lead to confusion, frustration, and inconsistency in obedience. This phenomenon often arises from a dog's ability to read human body language or through repetitive training patterns, where the dog begins to associate specific cues or objects with expected responses. Consequently, it is essential to cultivate an environment in which the dog learns to respond to commands only when explicitly given. Maintaining control over Azula’s anticipation not only reinforces the learning process but also enhances her ability to focus and engage with me. By training her to wait for clear commands, she develops better impulse control and is less likely to act on instinct or distractions in her surroundings. This control is especially critical in scenarios where her reaction could lead to potentially dangerous situations, such as crossing roads, encountering other animals, or participating in specialized activities like agility or obedience competitions. Additionally, preventing anticipation fosters a deeper communication channel between Azula and I. By ensuring that commands are followed through only when properly given, she learns to understand and trust the meanings behind each cue. This reinforces the bond of trust and respect that is paramount in any training relationship. A well trained pup is more likely to exhibit positive behaviors, leading to a better living environment and improving the quality of life for both Azula and yourself. Furthermore, consistent training that discourages anticipation encourages a broader skill set in her, as she begins to recognize the importance of listening and responding to a diverse range of commands. This adaptability is beneficial not only for day to day interactions, but also in situations that require Azula to respond to specific instructions, such as in therapy or service roles.

Maintaining consistency with the down command in dog training is crucial, particularly for dogs that already understand the command but may occasionally break it on their own. This consistency fosters a more reliable and obedient response from the dog, reinforcing their understanding of what is expected in various situations. When a dog is trained to perform a down, it establishes a clear and predictable framework within which the dog learns to operate. By remaining consistent in enforcing this command, we as owners not only reinforce the behavior but also enhance our communication with Azula. Dogs thrive on routine and structure. When we affirmatively respond to the execution of the down command, it provides Azula with clear signals that her behavior is correct. Conversely, if there are mixed signals — such as sometimes allowing her to break the command without correction while at other times enforcing it — this inconsistency can lead to confusion. Azula may start to question when it is appropriate to break the command and when she should remain in the down position. Such uncertainty can undermine the progress made during training sessions and lead to regression in her behavior. Moreover, a consistent approach reinforces her self-discipline and improves her overall impulse control. When Azula is expected to remain in the down position, it requires her to manage her energy and resist temptations, which is an essential skill for well-behaved pets. By consistently applying the command and expecting compliance, we encourage her to strengthen her self-control, leading to better behavior overall, both on and off-leash.

Engaging dogs in training exercises that involve the placement of objects of varying textures and surfaces can significantly enhance their learning experience and overall behavioral development. This practice taps into several key aspects of canine psychology and physiology, contributing to a comprehensive, enriching training environment. Firstly, exposing Azula to diverse textures such as rubber, wood, fabric, and metal, can stimulate her natural curiosity and encourage exploration. Dogs possess a highly developed sense of touch, and different surfaces activate various sensory receptors in their paws. When she engages with different textures during training, she becomes more aware of her surroundings, which can lead to improved spatial awareness and confidence. This sensory stimulation is essential for her cognitive development, as it challenges her to think critically and adapt to new experiences, reinforcing her ability to learn and retain commands. Furthermore, training on various surfaces helps Azula develop better proprioception, which refers to the awareness of her body position and movement in space. When a dog navigates a range of textures, from soft grass to hard pavements, or even uneven terrains, it encourages them to adjust their gait and balance accordingly. This physical development is crucial for her agility and coordination, especially in training scenarios that require her to follow commands while moving over different ground types. Incorporating different textures and surfaces into training can also help desensitize dogs to novel stimuli. Many dogs may exhibit fear or hesitation when encountering unfamiliar environments or materials. By gradually introducing varied textures during training sessions, we as owners can create a positive, controlled experience that alleviates anxiety and builds resilience. This approach can enhance Azula’s adaptability, ensuring she remains composed in diverse real world situations, such as during walks in busy areas or at events where they may encounter unexpected surfaces.

Using a long line to train your pup is an effective and beneficial method for enhancing both distance and duration in various obedience exercises and activities. This technique allows for a greater degree of freedom for the dog while still maintaining control for the handler, fostering a productive learning environment. One of the primary advantages of using a long line is that it encourages Azula to explore her surroundings safely. With a longer tether, she can engage more fully with her environment, which can enhance her confidence. This exploratory behavior is crucial for socialization, as it allows Azula to encounter different stimuli such as other animals, people, and various terrains, while still being under my supervision. Consequently, she learns to manage distractions and develop appropriate responses, which is essential for her overall behavioral development. Moreover, training with a long line facilitates the reinforcement of commands over longer distances. This method enables me to teach Azula to respond reliably to cues even when she is further away. For instance, during recall training, the long line allows me to provide immediate feedback, rewarding Azula for returning while also gently guiding her back if she strays too far. In addition, practicing duration with a long line is beneficial for teaching Azula to maintain specific behaviors for extended periods. Whether it’s sitting, placing, or lying down, the long line allows me to gradually increase the distance while ensuring she remains in the desired position. This gradual approach is vital for building her self control and patience, which are essential traits for well mannered pets.

Azula and I worked on some leash dragging exercises. We began in my backyard since it is an enclosed area, and once I saw consistency with Azula, we moved our session to a local park with minimal distractions. Training a dog with a leash dragging before transitioning to off-leash training is a crucial step in ensuring a well behaved and responsive canine companion. This method serves several important purposes that foster a deeper bond between the dog and the handler, while also promoting safety and effective communication. Allowing Azula to get accustomed to the sensation of a leash dragging can help diminish any anxiety or resistance she may feel when the leash is eventually applied. Often, dogs can perceive a leash as a restrictive device, leading to stress or confusion during training sessions. By using a dragging leash, Azula can learn to associate the leash with positive experiences and freedom, rather than confinement. This gradual introduction helps to create a more relaxed training environment, where she feels secure and willing to engage with me more. Moreover, it provides an opportunity for me to observe and understand Azula’s natural behaviors and tendencies. It allows her to explore her surroundings while still being connected to me, offering a chance to see how she reacts to various stimuli in her environment. This observational period is invaluable, as it reveals Azula’s comfort levels, distractions, and potential areas for improvement in her training. In addition to fostering understanding, the use of a dragging leash enhances the development of recall commands and other essential obedience skills. With Azula learning to respond to commands while the leash is dragging, she is more likely to carry those skills over when she is off leash due to her becoming conditioned to respond to cues without the immediate physical guidance of the leash. The gradual transition helps ensure that Azula understands expectations, leading to a more reliable and obedient pup.

A well structured training program for dogs is essential for their development and well being, and incorporating regular playtime into this program offers numerous benefits that enhance the overall effectiveness of training. Playtime serves as a fundamental aspect of a dog's daily routine, providing not only physical exercise but also mental stimulation. Engaging in play helps to strengthen the bond between the dog and the handler, fostering trust and cooperation, which are vital components of successful training. One of the primary advantages of integrating play into Azula’s training regimen is the positive impact it has on her motivation and enthusiasm. Dogs are naturally playful creatures, and incorporating enjoyable activities into training sessions can make learning more appealing. This approach encourages Azula to be more engaged and responsive, allowing her to absorb commands and behaviors more effectively. When dogs associate training with fun, they are more likely to participate actively and retain the information being taught. Playtime serves as an excellent outlet for Azula’s energy. Many behavioral issues stem from excess energy that has not been properly channeled. By providing regular play opportunities, we as owners can help prevent undesirable behaviors such as chewing, barking, or digging, which often result from boredom or frustration. Additionally, play can significantly reduce anxiety and stress, creating a calmer and more focused pup during training sessions. This can lead to improved concentration and a more conducive learning environment.

Training Azula in an enclosed area when working off-leash offers a controlled and secure environment that fosters effective learning while minimizing risks. One of the most significant benefits of an enclosed space is safety. Without physical boundaries, she may become distracted, chase after animals, or run into dangerous situations. By training in a confined area, I can focus on reinforcing commands without the constant concern of Azula wandering off. An enclosed area also reduces external distractions, which is especially beneficial in the early stages of off-leash training. Dogs are naturally curious and can be easily tempted by new scents, sounds, or moving objects. When training in a fenced space, the number of unpredictable stimuli is minimized, allowing Azula to concentrate on learning cues and behaviors without excessive outside interference. This controlled setting enables a gradual introduction to distractions, helping her build impulse control and responsiveness over time. Additionally, an enclosed training space fosters a sense of consistency and confidence. Dogs thrive on routine and repetition, and when they train in a familiar, enclosed area, they can focus more effectively on mastering commands such as sit, down, and heel. For us as handlers, the enclosed setting provides peace of mind, allowing us to practice different training techniques without the stress of losing control. This confidence translates into better communication between Azula and I, strengthening the bond and reinforcing trust. Off-leash training is not just about freedom; it requires a high level of obedience and trust between us. Enclosed areas allow for gradual progression from basic commands to more complex behaviors, such as off-leash heeling and distance commands. By working with Azula within a contained space, mistakes or lapses in obedience can be corrected without the risk of her running away or encountering dangerous situations. Overall, training in an enclosed space when working off-leash is a strategic approach that enhances safety, focus, confidence, and obedience. By providing a secure environment, reducing distractions, and allowing for structured progression, we can ensure Azula develops the necessary skills to respond reliably and confidently when eventually exposed to more open, uncontrolled environments.

In the course of Azula’s training program, I have been dedicated to enhancing her greeting manners, a crucial aspect of her socialization and overall behavior. Initially, Azula exhibited a common challenge among dogs by jumping up on individuals who approached her for a greeting. This behavior, while often well intentioned, can be perceived as overwhelming and inappropriate in various social contexts. To address this, I implemented a structured training approach aimed at teaching Azula more acceptable greeting behaviors. The focus of our sessions has been on reinforcing the concept of maintaining a sit or down position prior to receiving affection or attention from others. This foundational training not only promotes better manners, but also fosters a sense of calm and control in Azula during interactions. Throughout the training process, Azula demonstrated some initial difficulties in maintaining her sit or down position, occasionally breaking them when excited. However, with consistent and positive encouragement, she has begun to grasp the concept effectively. Over time, the frequency of her breaking the commands has decreased, indicating her growing understanding and compliance. This progress highlights Azula’s capacity for learning and adaptation. As she continues to refine her greeting manners, we can expect to see marked improvements in her interactions with people, enhancing her social skills and making her a more well mannered companion.

Working Azula around other dogs offers a multitude of behavioral, psychological, and training benefits that contribute significantly to her overall well-being and our success as owners. When dogs are regularly exposed to and trained in the presence of other dogs, they develop stronger social skills, better impulse control, and improved focus, all of which are essential for a balanced and manageable companion. One of the most compelling reasons to work Azula around others is the opportunity to foster healthy socialization. Dogs are inherently social animals, and their ability to read and respond appropriately to other dogs’ body language plays a major role in preventing fear-based behaviors and reactivity. By training in a controlled environment near other dogs, she learns that the presence of others is not a threat, but rather a normal, non-concerning part of life. This helps reduce anxiety and aggression, particularly for dogs that are easily overstimulated or uncertain in social settings. Another key benefit is the improvement in her focus and obedience. Practicing commands and behaviors in a distracting environment—especially one that includes the movement, smells, and sounds of other dogs—teaches Azula to maintain attention on me regardless of what’s happening around her. This is a crucial skill for us as handlers, as it enhances reliability in real-world scenarios where distractions are inevitable. Dogs that only perform well in sterile, quiet environments often struggle when the stakes are higher or when surprises arise. Working Azula around other dogs prepares her for these more challenging moments. Additionally, regular training near other dogs helps normalize the environment, reducing the novelty of seeing or being near dogs during walks, vet visits, or public outings. This desensitization reduces leash reactivity and excitable behaviors, leading to safer, more enjoyable outings for both Azula and yourselves. It also promotes a sense of neutrality—a desirable state where she can acknowledge another dog’s presence without the compulsion to react, play, or confront. In essence, working around other dogs is not simply about socializing or testing obedience. It is a comprehensive developmental tool that conditions Azula to function calmly, confidently, and obediently in the real world. It cultivates emotional regulation, improves responsiveness, enhances safety, and builds a solid foundation of trust and communication.

Azula and I have been working on her final video. She has demonstrated growth and understanding by piecing together the skills she has acquired throughout her training. To create a conducive learning environment, we traveled to the pier in Santa Monica, which provided a dynamic backdrop for her to adapt to varied stimuli. To begin, we took a leisurely walk around the area, allowing Azula to familiarize herself with her surroundings. This initial acclimatization was crucial in setting a positive tone for the session. Following this, we engaged in several repetitions to assess her responsiveness and focus. Azula exhibited some trouble initially with her place, but by working her through it, she was able to follow through. Once I observed her steady performance, we transitioned to filming the session. Azula is an intelligent pup who has learned so much in a short amount of time. Her ability to learn rapidly is a testament to her potential, and she has made significant strides in the days we have worked together. It is vital to maintain consistency in her training regimen moving forward. This will not only reinforce the skills she has learned but also facilitate her continued improvement and success in future challenges. Azula’s progress is commendable, and I am confident that with ongoing dedication and structured training, she will achieve even greater results.

Azula has completed her Two Week Board and Train Program, and she is now ready to return home. Over the past two weeks, it has been a privilege to serve as Azula’s trainer, and I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for the trust you placed in me during this process. Throughout the program, Azula demonstrated remarkable progress. Her eagerness to learn in training sessions made our time together not only productive but also incredibly enjoyable. We worked on essential commands, socialization skills, and positive reinforcement techniques, which I am confident will contribute to her development as a well behaved and happy companion. The bond we developed during this training period was truly special, and I will cherish the moments we shared. As she prepares to return home, I want to highlight that she will be missed. I am excited for Azula to reunite with you and to see how she integrates the skills she has learned during our time together into her daily life. Thank you once again for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of Azula’s journey. It has been a rewarding experience, and I look forward to hearing about her continued growth and happiness in your home. Thank you Azula!

Belgian Malinois Dog Training | Azula | Garden Grove, CA

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