Chloe | Golden Retriever | Reseda, CA | In-Training
- Jose Ayala
- Feb 17
- 13 min read
Updated: Mar 2
Meet Chloe! She is a two year old Golden Retriever who has joined us for our Two Week Board and Train Program. Chloe is here for basic obedience, leash pulling, and jumping to greet. She does well with people and other dogs, but gets easily distracted and will not listen when she is around them. The goal for Chloe is to establish a solid foundation to help her become the best pup that she can be. Check in to see her progress as we embark on her training journey over the next fourteen days!
Chloe and I began working on her recall exercise known as come to sit. This exercise is designed to have Chloe 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 effectively helped her grasp the desired behavior. Chloe demonstrated a good comprehension of the task and quickly adapted to the instructions, showing her ability to follow through with the exercise. As she gained consistency in executing the command, I introduced verbal cues, specifically “come,” and "sit," alongside gentle leash tension to further reinforce her behavior. The training session was notably successful, as she responded to leash pressure indicating her comfort and understanding of the cues being presented. On another note, she did very well on the car ride home, and we are establishing a bond as Chloe begins to adjust to her new home for the next two weeks.
Chloe and I go on morning and evening walks around the neighborhood. Throughout our walks, Chloe was exhibiting behavior where she would frequently pull ahead of me. To address this, I introduced her to the 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 whenever Chloe 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 Chloe understand the desired position, but also teaches her the importance of maintaining proximity and attentiveness to my movements. While Chloe is still mastering this skill, I am committed to incorporating the heel command into every walk moving forward to solidify her understanding and compliance. She did really well her first night here, sleeping through the night in her crate, and eating all of her food.
Chloe 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 Chloe 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 Chloe 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 Chloe to the designated spot we practiced on which was a park bench. As I approached the bench with her, I applied gentle tension on the leash to encourage her to move forward. When Chloe 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 Chloe 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 Chloe 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, combined with patience and positive reinforcement, it will help Chloe 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.
Chloe 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 Chloe, which we established at home. This environment allowed her to feel safe and secure, facilitating her learning process. My approach involved the application of gentle leash tension, a technique that effectively guided Chloe towards the desired position without causing stress or anxiety. Throughout our session, I closely observed her body language and responses, allowing me to tailor my methods to her unique needs. Whenever Chloe made even the slightest effort to lower herself, I promptly released the tension on the leash and rewarded her with verbal praise and encouragement. This positive reinforcement strategy not only motivated Chloe, but also helped her associate the down command with a rewarding experience. By working at her pace, I aimed to build her confidence and ensure that the session was enjoyable. A positive learning atmosphere encourages Chloe to continue engaging with her training, and it also strengthens her willingness to follow through with the behavior.
Resetting a dog to its stationary position when it breaks a command on its own is a critical aspect of training and behavior management. This practice serves multiple essential purposes that contribute to the overall success of training efforts and the development of a well-behaved pet. Firstly, resetting a dog reinforces the concept of boundaries and expectations. When Chloe is given a command, such as down or sit, it is essential for her to understand that these commands are not merely suggestions but rather directives that must be adhered to until she is released with a verbal “break.” Allowing Chloe to break a command without correction can create confusion, leading to an unclear understanding of expected behavior. By resetting her to her original position, I clarify the importance of obedience and encourages Chloe to comprehend that each command is to be followed until she received further instruction. Consistency is key in training, and when we as handlers reset Chloe, it demonstrates commitment and fairness. It shows her that we are attentive to her behavior and willing to invest time and effort into teaching her. This consistent and clear communication fosters trust and respect, which are foundational elements in a positive human-animal relationship. Each time Chloe breaks a command, it provides a moment to reinforce the training learned previously. By addressing the action patiently and returning her to her stationary position, I can utilize this moment to reinforce the desired behavior through positive reinforcement. This could manifest through verbal praise and affection when she follows through on what is being asked of her. This approach not only strengthens the command itself, but also encourages Chloe to engage actively in the training process.
Chloe and I began working on distance and duration with a long line. During this session, I utilized a long line to facilitate our work on these critical skills, ensuring safety and control while promoting Chloe’s confidence in her abilities. To establish a baseline for distance and duration, I implemented a systematic method whereby each foot I stepped back translated into an increment of five seconds. This approach provided Chloe with a clear understanding of the expectations regarding her duration while I increased the distance between us. Chloe responded positively to this initial framework, demonstrating proficiency in her sit, which underscored her ability to understand and execute commands in a controlled environment. However, as is often the case in training, some challenges arose, particularly with Chloe’s down. Recognizing the need for a more tailored approach, I adjusted my method from five seconds per foot to three seconds per foot, which allowed for a more gradual increase in duration that matched Chloe’s learning pace. This modification proved effective, as Chloe is showing improvement in her responsiveness to her down.
Dog reactivity is a behavioral issue that many pet owners encounter, characterized by exaggerated responses to certain stimuli, such as other dogs, people, or specific environments. This often manifests as barking, lunging, or growling, and can be both a source of stress for the owner and a barrier to enjoying outdoor activities. Understanding the underlying causes of dog reactivity is essential for effective training and management. Reactivity may stem from fear, lack of socialization, or frustration, and recognizing these triggers is critical to addressing the behavior appropriately. Training a reactive dog necessitates a systematic and empathetic approach that fosters trust and security. Socialization is a key element; it involves exposing Chloe to various stimuli in a controlled environment to help her build confidence. Positive reinforcement plays a role in this training methodology. By rewarding desired behaviors such as calmness in the presence of a trigger, we as owners can reinforce positive associations and replace reactive responses with more appropriate behaviors. One effective technique is called “counter-conditioning,” wherein Chloe’s emotional response to a trigger is modified through gradual exposure and positive reinforcement. For example, since she reacts negatively to other dogs, I can start by keeping a safe distance from the stimulus while rewarding her for remaining calm and composed. Over time, with patience and consistency, Chloe can learn to associate the previously fear-inducing or provoking stimuli with positive outcomes, such as verbal praise or affection. In summary, addressing dog reactivity is a multifaceted endeavor that melds understanding with practical training strategies. By employing methods such as positive reinforcement, counter-conditioning, and desensitization, we can guide Chloe through the challenges of reactivity. This process not only enhances her emotional well-being but also contributes significantly to a harmonious human-animal relationship, ultimately allowing for more enjoyable interactions within a variety of environments.
Chloe and I met with other trainers and their pups to work on her socialization around them. Training a dog to behave appropriately around other dogs is an essential skill for promoting socialization and ensuring safety in various environments. With the use of her e-collar, it can facilitate this training by providing a means of communication that allows for immediate feedback. Anytime Chloe displays unwanted behavior upon seeing another dog, such as pulling towards them, I pair a verbal “off” with a low level stimulation from the e-collar. This approach helps Chloe understand that the behavior is unacceptable and that compliance with the command is the desired response. Over time, Chloe learns to associate the presence of other dogs with the need to focus on me, leading to improved behavior in social situations. Consistency is key in this training approach. It is important to remain calm and assertive, ensuring that commands and corrections are applied consistently. It is also important to monitor Chloe’s responses to the e-collar, adjusting the stimulation level as needed to avoid overwhelming her. Gradually, as she learns to respond appropriately, the intensity of the stimulation can be reduced, reinforcing the understanding that good behavior leads to a positive outcome.
In the realm of dog training, mastering commands while on leash serves as a crucial developmental phase that lays the foundation for a dog's overall behavior and safety, particularly when transitioning to off-leash training. The leash serves not merely as a tool for restraint but as an essential mechanism for communication between the trainer and the dog, allowing for more precise control during the learning process. When a dog learns its commands while leashed, it fosters a clear understanding of expectations and reinforces the trust between the trainer and the dog. Firstly, training Chloe on a leash provides a secure environment for teaching her commands. This controlled setting minimizes distractions, enabling her to focus entirely on the my guidance as her trainer. During this phase, she can learn the significance of responding to commands without the potential chaos that can arise when off-leash. A dog that has developed a solid understanding of commands while on leash is more likely to respond reliably when it is later introduced to an off-leash environment. Moreover, learning commands on leash significantly enhances Chloe’s impulse control and understanding of appropriate behaviors. This aspect is vital because dogs are naturally curious and may be inclined to chase after distractions, such as other animals or moving objects, when they are off-leash. By reinforcing commands during leash training, she becomes adept at maintaining focus on me, helping her learn to resist the urge to wander off or engage in undesirable behaviors. This training also teaches Chloe to recognize and respect boundaries, which is essential for her safety and that of others in a more liberated setting. Training a dog to learn its commands on a leash is a fundamental step that enhances the effectiveness and safety of the transition to off-leash behavior. This phase fortifies the dog's understanding of commands, improves impulse control, and strengthens the bond between dog and owner, ultimately facilitating a smooth and successful off-leash experience.
Teaching a dog door manners is 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 Chloe and the people around her. 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 Chloe to wait for permission before entering or exiting, we can prevent accidents and ensure that she remains within a controlled environment. This practice not only protects Chloe, 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 her behavior. Dogs thrive on routine and clear expectations, and training them to wait at the door teaches them patience and self control. This discipline can extend beyond just door manners; it often influences Chloe’s overall behavior, making her more responsive to commands and less prone to impulsive actions. A well-trained dog is generally easier to manage in various situations, leading to a more harmonious living environment. When a dog successfully learns to exhibit good manners at the door, it creates a sense of accomplishment for both the dog and the owner, strengthening their relationship. Furthermore, good door manners are beneficial in social settings. Whether at home with guests or in public spaces, if Chloe understands how to behave around doorways, she is less likely to create disturbances or exhibit anxious behaviors. This can lead to more enjoyable experiences for everyone involved, as well-behaved dogs are often welcomed more readily in social situations.
In the course of Chloe’s training program, I have been dedicated to enhancing her greeting manners, a crucial aspect of her socialization and overall behavior. Initially, Chloe 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 Chloe 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 Chloe during interactions. Throughout the training process, Chloe 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 Chloe’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.
Making training sessions fun with your dog is essential for fostering a strong bond, ensuring effective learning, and maintaining long-term behavioral success. Dogs, like humans, learn best when they are engaged, motivated, and enjoying the process. If training is monotonous or stressful, your dog may become disinterested, frustrated, or even resistant to learning new commands. By incorporating fun elements, you create a positive experience that reinforces desired behaviors while deepening the connection between you and your pet. One of the primary benefits of enjoyable training sessions is increased engagement. When a dog associates training with fun and rewards, they are more likely to pay attention and participate willingly. This positive association builds enthusiasm for learning, making it easier to introduce new commands, reinforce existing ones, and modify unwanted behaviors. Dogs naturally respond to motivation, whether through treats, praise, toys, or play, and incorporating these elements keeps them excited about training. Additionally, making training enjoyable enhances a dog’s retention of commands. Dogs remember lessons better when they are taught in a positive and stimulating environment. If training feels like a game rather than a chore, they are more likely to repeat good behaviors and respond reliably to commands, even in distracting or high-pressure situations. A fun training approach also strengthens the human-dog relationship. Trust and mutual respect are fundamental to effective training, and a dog that enjoys the process will see their owner as a source of fun and guidance rather than someone who simply enforces rules. This dynamic builds confidence in both the dog and the handler, leading to a more harmonious relationship and better overall behavior. Furthermore, training should be an outlet for mental and physical stimulation. Dogs, especially high-energy breeds, require regular activity to stay happy and well-behaved. Fun training sessions provide an opportunity to channel their energy productively, reducing the likelihood of boredom-related behaviors like chewing, excessive barking, or digging. Another crucial aspect of enjoyable training is stress reduction. A dog that feels pressured, confused, or fearful during training is less likely to learn effectively. It can lead to anxiety, reluctance, or even behavioral regression. By contrast, a positive and playful approach fosters a relaxed learning environment where mistakes are seen as part of the process rather than failures. This reduces stress for both the dog and the owner, making training a rewarding and enjoyable routine.
Chloe 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 Chloe 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. Chloe 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. Chloe 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. Chloe’s progress is commendable, and I am confident that with ongoing dedication and structured training, she will achieve even greater results.
Chloe has completed her Two Week Board and Train Program and is now ready to return home. I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude for the trust you placed in me to care for and train Chloe during this time. Throughout the program, Chloe was a great companion. Our time together fostered a bond, and I genuinely enjoyed the process of training her. As Chloe prepares to transition back to your home environment, I am eager to share the skills and behaviors she has developed during her program. With your continued support and guidance, Chloe will continue to be set up for success. I look forward to demonstrating her progress and discussing how you can reinforce the training at home. Thank you once again for the opportunity to work with Chloe. It has been a pleasure, and I am excited for the journey ahead for both you and Chloe!
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