Kima | Border Collie | Hermosa Beach, CA | In-Training
- Jose Ayala
- Mar 4
- 15 min read
Updated: Mar 17
Meet Kima! She is an eighteen month old Border Collie who has joined us for our Two Week Board and Train Program. Kima is here for basic obedience, jumping to greet, and leash pulling. She does well with people and other dogs, and has a tendency to jump on someone she first meets. The goal for Kima is to keep her from jumping on people, have a better recall, and to keep her from picking up items within her reach. Although she does come back, Kima also has a tendency of running away when she is off leash. Over the next fourteen days, Kima 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!
Kima and I concentrated on her recall exercise known as come to sit. This exercise is designed to have Kima 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. Kima 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 sit position. Once Kima 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 to leash pressure 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.
Kima 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 Kima 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 Kima 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 Kima 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 Kima 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 bench, 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 Kima 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 Kima 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. On another note, Kima needed a little reconditioning with her come to sit, so I worked on it with her in my hallway since it is narrow, using the walls as a barrier to have her in a straighter sit position which is helping her follow through. She did very well sleeping through the night in her crate, and is also staying dry with in-home sessions throughout the day.
Kima and I have been going out on morning and evening walks since her program started. While on these walks, 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 Kima 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 Kima understand the desired position, but also teaches her the importance of maintaining proximity and attentiveness to my movements. I have been incorporating the heel command into every walk we go on to solidify her understanding and compliance, and she has done really well. Kima has shown improvement in her come to sit command, as she is now sitting closer and straighter to my left. We practiced these commands, including her place in a public setting with minimal distractions, and Kima is making progress in following through.
Kima 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 Kima, 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 Kima 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 Kima 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 Kima, 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 Kima to continue engaging with her training, and it also strengthens her willingness to follow through with the behavior.
Training Kima around other dogs from a distance, and gradually reducing that distance, offers several significant benefits that contribute to effective socialization and behavior management. This approach creates a controlled environment where both you and Kima can learn to navigate interactions with other dogs while minimizing the risk of overwhelming stress or negative experiences. Starting at a distance allows for the introduction of other dogs in a less intimidating manner, particularly beneficial for anxious or reactive dogs that may otherwise struggle in close proximity to their peers. One of the foremost advantages of this method is that it helps to build confidence in dogs. By observing other dogs while maintaining a safe distance, Kima can learn to feel more comfortable in the presence of their potential companions without the immediate pressure of interaction. This gradually desensitizes them to the sights, sounds, and behaviors of other dogs, paving the way for positive associations. Over time, as she becomes more acclimated, the distance can be decreased, allowing for a smoother transition to face-to-face interactions. Moreover, training at a distance enables us as handlers to reinforce desirable behaviors effectively. When Kima remains calm and focused while observing other dogs, positive reinforcement can be applied, fostering good behavior and making the experience rewarding. This reinforcement is critical in shaping a dog's ability to behave appropriately in social situations, as it emphasizes desirable conduct rather than reactive or fearful responses. Additionally, this method supports the development of impulse control. Dogs that are trained to observe at a distance learn to manage their impulses in the presence of distractions. As they gain experience, they develop enhanced self-regulation skills, which are invaluable not only in dog-to-dog interactions but also in various everyday situations. Consequently, this approach helps in cultivating a well-mannered companion that can traverse diverse environments with grace and poise. Training Kima around other dogs from a distance, with the plan to gradually reduce that distance, presents a wealth of benefits that improve socialization, enhance behavior management, promote impulse control, and ensure safety. This thoughtful approach not only empowers her to become more confident and well-adjusted members of society, but also strengthens the human-animal bond, ultimately leading to a fulfilling relationship that thrives on mutual respect and understanding.
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 Kima to explore her surroundings safely. With a longer tether, she can engage more fully with her environment, which can enhance her confidence and reduce anxiety. This exploratory behavior is crucial for socialization, as it allows Kima 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 Kima 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 Kima 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 Kima 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.
Kima 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 Kima 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 Kima understand that the behavior is unacceptable and that compliance with the command is the desired response. Over time, Kima 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 Kima’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.
Training Kima in various public settings with distractions is an essential practice that significantly enhances her behavior, reliability, and overall quality of life. One of the primary benefits of this type of training is that it helps her generalize her learned commands and behaviors in real-world situations. While she may respond perfectly to commands in a quiet, controlled environment, such as in the home, the presence of distractions like other animals, people, sounds, and movement, can challenge Kima’s focus and obedience. By exposing her to these distractions in a gradual and structured manner, we as owners can help Kima learn to ignore temptations and concentrate on our cues regardless of the environment. Additionally, training in public fosters the development of good manners and socialization skills. Dogs that are well-socialized in various contexts tend to display more confidence and calmness in the presence of unfamiliar stimuli. This exposure can reduce the likelihood of fear-based reactions, such as barking, lunging, or aggression, which often stem from anxiety or unpredictability when encountering new experiences. Through consistent practice in different settings, Kima learns to behave appropriately around people and other animals, making her a more enjoyable companion and safer community member. In addition to the behavioral benefits, training Kima in public with distractions can promote confidence and competence in you as her owner. As you learn to guide and direct her amidst distractions, you gain valuable skills that improve your handling abilities and understanding of canine behavior. This not only enhances the training experience but also empowers you to effectively navigate everyday situations, such as walks in the park, visits to cafes, or trips to the vet, without feeling overwhelmed. In summary, training Kima in different public settings with distractions brings multifaceted benefits, ranging from improved obedience and socialization skills, to increased owner confidence and interactivity. These experiences not only forge a stronger bond between you and Kima, but also enhances her ability to function as a well-adjusted member of society. This kind of training is crucial for ensuring that Kima can thrive in the complexities of modern life while maintaining a positive and rewarding relationship with her human companions.
A dog’s meal time is not just a moment for nourishment; it is also a crucial aspect of their behavioral development and overall well-being. Establishing good food manners offers a multitude of benefits, not only for Kima, but also for you and the household environment. Firstly, good food 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 dog 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. This mutual understanding is essential for a healthy companionship. In addition to behavioral benefits, good food manners can play a vital role in Kima’s health. Dogs that are taught to eat calmly and at a controlled pace are less likely to experience issues such as choking or digestive problems. By encouraging Kima to take her time during meals, we as owners can help prevent overeating, which is a common problem that can lead to obesity and associated health issues. Furthermore, instilling good manners can also prevent resource guarding, a behavior where a dog becomes aggressive over their food. By teaching Kima that meal times are structured and that she can trust you around her food, it reduces the likelihood of developing this undesirable trait. Additionally, fostering good food manners can make meal times more enjoyable for everyone involved. When a dog behaves appropriately during meals, it creates a pleasant atmosphere where the owner can relax and enjoy their own food without distractions or concerns about their pet's behavior. This peaceful environment can extend to family members or guests, ensuring meal times are a time for connection and enjoyment rather than chaos and worry.
Taking Kima on regular walks around the neighborhood is an essential aspect of responsible pet ownership that extends far beyond mere exercise. These daily excursions provide numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits for both you and Kima, fostering a bond and enhancing the overall quality of life. First and foremost, regular walks are crucial for maintaining a dog's physical health. Just like humans, dogs require consistent physical activity to keep their bodies fit and healthy. Walking helps to prevent obesity, which can lead to numerous health issues such as diabetes, joint problems, and cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, walks promote good digestion and help maintain a healthy weight, contributing to a longer and more active life for your furry friend. In addition to physical benefits, walking is also vital for Kima’s mental stimulation. Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and exploring her neighborhood allows her to engage her senses. The sights, sounds, and smells encountered during walks provide essential mental enrichment, helping to alleviate boredom and reduce undesirable behaviors that can stem from pent up energy. Engaging with the environment stimulates her mind, promotes problem solving skills, and encourages socialization with other dogs and people, which is important for her emotional well being. Walking together provides an opportunity for quality time, fostering trust and companionship. This shared experience can enhance communication, as you can give Kima commands and reinforce positive behaviors in a relaxed setting. The importance of taking her out for regular walks cannot be overstated. It is a fundamental practice that supports the physical health, mental stimulation, and emotional bonding between Kima and yourself. By committing to regular walks, we not only enhance our pup’s well being, but also enrich their own lives and the community they inhabit.
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 Kima 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 Kima 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 Kima, 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 Kima’s 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 Kima’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 Kima 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.
Kima 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 Kima, 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 Kima 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, Kima 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 Kima'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 Kima'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 Kima 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 Kima understands expectations, leading to a more reliable and obedient pup.
Kima and I implemented some final adjustments to her training. This approach was instrumental in assessing Kima's readiness for off leash training, and I am pleased to report that she continues to make progress. Throughout our walk, Kima exhibited remarkable composure, maintaining her position alongside me despite various distractions present in our environment. Her responsiveness to cues and overall behavior reflect her increasing confidence and the skills she has acquired. Looking ahead, Kima will transition to working off leash for the remainder of her training program. This stage is crucial as it will allow her to consolidate all the skills she has learned thus far and prepare for her final video. The goal is to ensure that Kima can navigate various scenarios with ease while demonstrating her ability to respond to commands without the physical tether of a leash. I look forward to seeing how Kima will continue to develop in this off leash phase, as she pieces together everything she has learned. I am confident that with continued focus and practice, she will excel and continue to showcase her progress. This next phase of training is not only essential for her skill set but also enriches her overall experience.
Kima 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 Kima’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, Kima 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 Kima 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 Kima’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 Kima!
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