Benny | Mixed Breed | Los Angeles, CA | In-Training
- Jose Ayala
- Jun 17
- 17 min read
Updated: Jun 30
Meet Benny! He is a seven month old mixed breed who has joined us for our Two Week Board and Train Program. Benny is here for basic obedience, jumping to greet, leash pulling, counter surfing, and playful nipping. Benny does well with people and other dogs, but does not know his own strength, and can potentially knock someone over when jumping on them. He has a tendency of pulling towards other pups for interaction, and will also pull when on walks. Over the next fourteen days, Benny will be working on his behavior and be set up for success, with the hopes of becoming a well mannered pup. Check in to see his progress!
Benny and I spent the day getting to know each other by going for a walk at the park. Our walk served not only as a leisurely outing, but also as an important training session focused on establishing a bond and enhancing Benny's obedience skills. Throughout our time together, I noticed Benny exhibiting behavior where he would frequently pull ahead of me. To address this, I introduced him to the heel command, which requires him to walk beside me on my left side. This command is crucial for ensuring that he 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 whenever Benny pulled away from my side. This method involved making a U-turn and guiding him back towards my left with appropriate leash tension. This approach not only helps Benny understand the desired position, but also teaches him the importance of maintaining proximity and attentiveness to my movements. While Benny is still mastering this skill, I am committed to incorporating the heel command into every walk moving forward to solidify his understanding and compliance. He did really well in his crate on the ride home, and he is adjusting to his new environment for the next two weeks. As I mentioned during pickup, Benny will be coming home with an e-collar, and attached with his pupdate is the e-collar video explaining its functions so that you may become familiarized with it.
Benny and I concentrated on his recall exercise known as come to sit. This exercise is designed to have Benny approach my right side, navigate behind me, and then settle down on my left. To enhance his understanding of this sequence, I utilized leash tension as a guiding tool, which helped him grasp the desired behavior. Benny demonstrated comprehension of the task and adapted to the instructions, but still had some trouble as he would not sit at times when he came to my left, so to work him through it I utilized slight leash tension by pulling up. Once Benny began showing consistency in executing the command, I introduced verbal cues, specifically “come,” and "sit," alongside leash tension to further reinforce his behavior. He still needs more practice, but the training session went well, as he is learning to respond, indicating his understanding of the cues being presented.
Benny and I worked on place. Place is an essential command that serves to establish boundaries and promote desired behaviors in various situations. This command instructs Benny 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 Benny 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 he 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 Benny to the designated spot we practiced on, which was a concrete stage at a local park. As I approached the stage with him, I applied gentle tension on the leash to encourage him to move forward. When Benny stepped onto it, I immediately released the tension on the leash, signaling that he had made the correct choice. Timing here is crucial, so the moment Benny made contact with the stage, he was immediately rewarded with praise and affection. Using a cheerful tone of voice, petting, and verbal affirmations like "good boy" helps reinforce this positive behavior. Once Benny began to understand the association between the leash pressure and the verbal place, I gradually increased the duration he remained there. Consistency is key in this training process, so with regular practice sessions, combined with patience and positive reinforcement, it will help Benny understand the command fully. Over time, I will introduce distractions gradually while he maintains the place command, ensuring that he 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 Benny did with his 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 Benny’s anticipation not only reinforces the learning process but also enhances his ability to focus and engage with me. By training him to wait for clear commands, he develops better impulse control and is less likely to act on instinct or distractions in his surroundings. This control is especially critical in scenarios where his 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 Benny and me. By ensuring that commands are followed through only when properly given, he 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 Benny and yourself. Furthermore, consistent training that discourages anticipation encourages a broader skill set in him, as he 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 Benny to respond to specific instructions, such as in therapy or service roles.
Benny and I have been working on down. Down is a command that is often regarded as one of the most difficult for dogs to master due to the inherent vulnerabilities associated with the submissive position of lying down. Understanding the psychological dynamics at play, I recognized the importance of creating a supportive and non-distracting training environment with Benny, which we established at home. This environment allowed him to feel safe and secure, facilitating his learning process. My approach involved the application of gentle leash tension, a technique that effectively guided Benny towards the desired position without causing stress or anxiety. Throughout our session, I closely observed his body language and responses, allowing me to tailor my methods to his unique needs. Whenever Benny made even the slightest effort to lower himself, I promptly released the tension on the leash and rewarded him with verbal praise and encouragement. This positive reinforcement strategy not only motivates Benny, but also helps him associate the down command with a rewarding experience. By working at his pace, I aimed to build his confidence and ensure that the session was enjoyable. A positive learning atmosphere encourages Benny to continue engaging with his training, and it also strengthens his willingness to follow through with the behavior.
Training a dog around minimal distractions before introducing it to more complex and stimulating environments is a foundational principle in canine behavior shaping and learning theory. This gradual approach is not only effective but essential for ensuring that a dog learns desired behaviors reliably and can perform them consistently in any environment, including those filled with distractions. There are several compelling reasons why this methodical progression is beneficial, rooted in cognitive development, emotional regulation, and the mechanics of learning. At the core of this approach lies the concept of proofing behaviors. When Benny is first learning a new command or behavior, such as come to sit, heel, or place, it is essential that the learning environment be calm and free from competing stimuli. This allows him to focus exclusively on the task at hand, without being overwhelmed or confused by extraneous sounds, sights, or smells. In a distraction-free setting, Benny is more capable of processing what is being asked of him, recognizing the connection between the command and the reward, and building a strong neural association with that behavior. This clarity is key for building a solid foundation of understanding. Moreover, beginning in a low-distraction environment helps build Benny’s confidence. Learning in a high distraction environment too early can lead to stress, confusion, or failure to perform, which can damage his motivation and willingness to engage. A pup that is set up for success from the start develops trust in the training process and in the person guiding it. This trust is vital for creating a cooperative learning dynamic and for fostering a positive emotional response to training. Another critical aspect is that dogs, much like humans, experience what is called context-specific learning. This means that a dog may be able to perform a behavior perfectly in a quiet living room but seem to “forget” it at the park. This isn’t stubbornness or disobedience, but simply the result of the dog associating the behavior with a specific context. By starting in a minimal-distraction setting, I can ensure that the behavior is truly learned before gradually introducing new variables. This helps Benny generalize the behavior across different settings, eventually making him reliable regardless of the level of distraction. Incrementally increasing the complexity of the training environment also allows me to gauge his readiness and tailor the pace of training to suit him. Some pups may progress quickly, while others require more time in each stage. A thoughtful progression prevents overwhelming the dog and ensures that each layer of distraction is added only after the dog demonstrates mastery of the behavior under simpler conditions. This systematic approach not only enhances learning but also reduces the likelihood of behavioral setbacks and the need for retraining. In addition, this method fosters better impulse control and emotional regulation in dogs. Distraction training is not merely about obedience, but more about teaching Benny to manage his impulses and maintain focus despite tempting or stimulating scenarios. These are complex cognitive tasks that require a gradual build-up. Expecting a dog to maintain composure in a busy environment without first teaching it to succeed in a quiet one is akin to expecting a student to solve advanced math problems without first learning basic arithmetic. In summary, training a dog around minimal distractions first is a critical step in developing a well-adjusted, confident, and responsive companion. It ensures clarity of communication, builds trust, encourages consistent performance, and prepares the dog to succeed in increasingly challenging environments. This structured approach respects the dog’s learning process and sets both the pup and the handler up for long-term success in real-world scenarios.
Working Benny around other dogs offers a multitude of behavioral, psychological, and training benefits that contribute significantly to his 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 Benny 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, he 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 his focus and obedience. Practicing commands and behaviors in a distracting environment—especially one that includes the movement, smells, and sounds of other dogs—teaches Benny to maintain attention on me regardless of what’s happening around him. 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 Benny around other dogs prepares him 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 Benny and yourselves. It also promotes a sense of neutrality—a desirable state where he 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, but a comprehensive developmental tool that conditions Benny 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.
Teaching distance and duration using a long line is a critical and professional component of effective dog training. It not only builds a reliable communication channel between the handler and the dog, but also lays the foundation for off-leash reliability, impulse control, and advanced obedience. The long line serves as both a physical safety net and a valuable tool for teaching the dog how to succeed at greater distances and for longer periods of time, all while reinforcing engagement and responsiveness in increasingly distracting environments. From a behavioral standpoint, working on distance and duration helps strengthen Benny’s understanding of commands in real-world scenarios, where distractions are inevitable and immediate correction or reinforcement may not always be possible. Training him to respond to commands such as sit, down, or place from a distance requires mental discipline, self-control, and trust. These are not innate behaviors for most dogs, and therefore must be cultivated gradually and consistently. The long line allows me to systematically increase the difficulty level by adding distance and time while still maintaining control, preventing Benny from rehearsing disobedience or developing bad habits like bolting or ignoring cues. Distance work on a long line also enhances his focus on me. When he learns that distance from me does not mean a lack of accountability, Benny begins to see obedience as a continuous expectation—not something that is only enforced when he is within arm’s reach. This is especially important for off-leash training or any kind of advanced work such as recall in open spaces, hiking, or service dog tasks. Through long-line training, Benny begins to generalize commands and learns that they apply regardless of location or environmental changes. Duration training teaches him to hold a command until released, rather than anticipating or making decisions independently. This builds patience, clarity, and reliability. The long line allows me to reinforce these concepts without relying solely on physical proximity. It ensures that Benny understands that even if I am 7 or 15 feet away, commands must still be respected and maintained. Without this foundational work, dogs often break position or fail to come when called because they have never been properly conditioned to work at a distance or for extended periods of time. In practical terms, teaching distance and duration with a long line also provides crucial safety benefits. Before a dog is ready for off-leash privileges, they must be proven reliable at a distance with the long line. This gives us as owners time to read the Benny’s body language, gauge the level of distraction, and make appropriate corrections or provide rewards. The long line acts as a tether of accountability, allowing freedom without complete risk. It gives me the means to interrupt bad choices, reinforce good ones, and communicate effectively, even when he is far away.
During today’s training session, Benny and I worked on off-leash exercises in a local park setting. Initially, he responded well to the commands and demonstrated promising engagement. However, as the session progressed, he exhibited some concerning behaviors, specifically multiple attempts to flee. While the use of his e-collar allowed me to safely interrupt and prevent him from gaining further distance, these escape attempts raised important safety concerns. Given the potential risk to both Benny and the public, I made the professional decision to end the off-leash portion of the session early and placed him back on a leash to ensure his safety. While setbacks like this can be part of the training process, it is important to prioritize consistent control and management—especially in unpredictable outdoor environments where distractions can heavily influence behavior. As a result of today’s behavior and in the interest of maintaining a safe and productive learning environment, Benny will remain on-leash for the remainder of his training program.
When working with Benny and implementing corrections using an e-collar and a verbal “off,” it is crucial to approach the process with clarity, consistency, and compassion. The first step in this training method involves establishing a solid foundation of communication with Benny. This means ensuring he understands basic commands and can recognize the consequences of his actions. When Benny becomes distracted by squirrels or other animals, it is essential to first regain his attention. Use his name to redirect his focus back to you, ensuring you have his engagement before giving the command. Once you have Benny’s attention, the next step is to use the e-collar stimulation effectively. It is important to choose a low level of stimulation at first to gauge his response. As you deliver the e-collar stimulation, simultaneously give the verbal command “off.” The timing here is crucial—both the stimulation and the verbal command should occur simultaneously to help Benny associate the two. This association reinforces that the stimulation serves as a cue for him to disengage from his distractions. Positive reinforcement plays a significant role in this process; immediately after he complies by redirecting his focus back to you, reward him with praise, treats, or playtime. This reinforces the desired behavior and creates a positive association with the command. In addressing Benny’s tendency to jump on people, preventive measures should also be established. Prior to encounters with new individuals, ensure Benny is in a calm state, using commands such as sit or down to maintain his composure. If he jumps, a gentle application of the e-collar in conjunction with the verbal “off” will serve to interrupt this behavior. Consistency is key; every time he jumps, you must respond with the same correction method to ensure he understands that this behavior is not acceptable. It’s also important to teach Benny an alternative behavior to jumping. Encourage him to remain in a stationary position when greeting people, rewarding him when he remains calm and behaves appropriately. Over time, with consistent application of this training method, Benny will learn to focus better on his handlers, resist distractions from his environment, and greet people without jumping, providing a more enjoyable experience for both him and those he interacts with. Throughout this training, patience and consistency are paramount. Regular practice of these commands in various environments will help Benny generalize the behaviors, making him a well-behaved companion regardless of distractions. Ultimately, the goal is to establish Benny's understanding that his compliance not only results in a cessation of correction but also leads to positive outcomes, thereby fostering a trusting bond between him and yourself.
Establishing good food and door manners offers a multitude of benefits, not only for Benny, but also for you and the household environment. Firstly, food and door manners contribute to a dog’s socialization skills. When a dog learns to exhibit polite behavior around food, such as waiting patiently for their meal or not jumping up at the table, it fosters a sense of discipline and respect. This behavior translates into other social situations, making the dog more adaptable and less prone to aggressive behaviors, especially in settings where food is present, such as during gatherings or visits to parks. The training process requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, which ultimately builds trust and strengthens the relationship. When a dog understands what is expected of them during meals, it leads to a smoother and more harmonious interaction, reducing stress for both the pet and the owner. Door manners are also an essential aspect of responsible pet ownership that has far-reaching benefits for both the dog and its owner. Door manners refer to the behaviors and etiquette a dog should exhibit when approaching or exiting a doorway, and instilling these manners is crucial for ensuring safety, fostering good behavior, and enhancing the dog-owner relationship. Firstly, teaching door manners significantly contributes to the safety of both Benny and the people around him. A dog that bolts through an open door can easily find itself in dangerous situations, such as running into traffic or getting lost. By training Benny to wait for permission before entering or exiting, we can prevent accidents and ensure that he remains within a controlled environment. This practice not only protects Benny, but also helps to avoid potential conflicts with other animals or people that may be outside. Moreover, instilling door manners promotes a sense of discipline and structure in Benny’s behavior. Dogs thrive on routine and clear expectations, and training them to wait at the door or for their food teaches them patience and self-control.
Taking Benny out for regular walks is essential not only for his physical well-being but also for his mental health and overall behavior. Dogs, particularly those with higher energy levels, can easily become restless and exhibit undesirable behaviors if they do not have an adequate outlet for their pent-up energy. By incorporating daily walks into Benny's routine, you provide him with a necessary physical activity that helps burn off excess energy, thereby fostering a calmer demeanor at home. Walking serves as a crucial form of exercise that promotes cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and maintains a healthy weight for Benny. Just as with humans, physical activity is fundamental to a dog's health and longevity. It allows him to engage with his environment, explore new scents, and interact with other dogs and people, all of which contribute to his socialization and happiness. Moreover, walks are an excellent opportunity to reinforce the training Benny has received. Incorporating cues and commands during these outings helps him stay focused and attentive while navigating distractions, such as other animals, people, and various sounds. This practice not only strengthens his training but also enhances his overall obedience, making outings more enjoyable for both Benny and yourself. It fosters a stronger bond and promotes communication through reinforced positive behaviors. Additionally, regular walks can significantly reduce behavioral issues such as barking, chewing, and hyperactivity. When dogs don't have an appropriate outlet for their energy, they may resort to undesired actions as a means of coping. By ensuring that Benny receives adequate exercise and mental stimulation through walks and training, you mitigate the likelihood of these unwanted behaviors manifesting. In conclusion, walks are not just a simple routine; they are a vital cornerstone of Benny's physical and mental health. They provide stimulation, an outlet for energy, and an opportunity to reinforce positive behavior through training. By prioritizing these walks, you contribute to a happier, healthier, and better-adjusted dog, ultimately enriching the experience of pet ownership.
Benny and I worked on his final and I am thrilled to report that he performed very well. Benny demonstrated an impressive ability to integrate the various skills and concepts he has learned, showcasing his growth and adaptability in a public setting. This achievement is a testament to his hard work and dedication, as well as the effectiveness of our training regimen. Over a relatively short period, Benny has made significant strides, and I take great pride in his progress. His ability to function in a more dynamic environment speaks volumes about his readiness and the solid foundation we have built together. The culmination of our efforts is evident, with Benny displaying confidence and competence in his training outcomes. It is essential to maintain a consistent training schedule moving forward. Consistency is key in reinforcing the skills Benny has acquired and ensuring that he continues to thrive. By committing to ongoing training, you can set Benny up for continued success, ultimately realizing his potential as the best pup he can be. I am confident that with dedication and perseverance, Benny will continue to flourish in all future endeavors.
Benny has completed his Two Week Board and Train Program, and he is now ready to return home. Over the past two weeks, it has been an absolute privilege to serve as Benny’s trainer, and I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude for the trust you placed in me during this process. Throughout the program, Benny demonstrated progress and enthusiasm. His eagerness to learn and engage 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 his 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. Benny’s playful spirit and affectionate nature brought joy to each day, making it evident why he holds such a special place in your heart. As he prepares to return home, I want to highlight that he will be greatly missed. His unique personality and zest for life have left a lasting impression on me. I am excited for Benny to reunite with you and to see how he integrates the skills he has learned during our time together into his daily life. Thank you once again for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of Benny’s journey. It has been a rewarding experience, and I look forward to hearing about his continued growth and happiness in your home. Thank you, Benny!
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