Lulu | Mixed Breed | Arcadia, CA | In-Training
- Jose Ayala
- May 27
- 16 min read
Updated: Jun 9
Meet Lulu! She is a six month old Mixed Breed who has joined us for our Two Week Board and Train Program. Lulu is here for basic obedience, jumping to greet, leash pulling, and playful nipping. She does well with people, but can be reactive towards other dogs. The goal for Lulu is to have better leash and greeting manners, as well as socialization around other pups. Over the next fourteen days, she 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!
Lulu and I concentrated on her recall exercise known as come to sit. This exercise is designed to have Lulu 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. Lulu 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 Lulu 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. In addition to her pupdate video, there will also be an introductory video to the e-collar explaining its many functions so that you may familiarize yourself with it, as Lulu will be returning with one on.
Lulu and I spent the afternoon 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 continuing to establish a bond and enhancing Lulu’s obedience skills. Throughout our time together, I noticed Lulu exhibiting behavior where she would frequently pull ahead of me and go back and forth from my left side to my right. 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 Lulu 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 Lulu understand the desired position, but also teaches her the importance of maintaining proximity and attentiveness to my movements. While Lulu 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 very well her first night here sleeping in her crate overnight, and she is eating all of her meals.
Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu’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 Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu to respond to specific instructions, such as in therapy or service roles.
Lulu 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 Lulu, 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 Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu, 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 Lulu to continue engaging with her training, and it also strengthens her willingness to follow through with the behavior.
Consistency and follow-through are fundamental components of effective dog training, particularly when it comes to teaching and reinforcing commands. One of the most critical aspects of this process is resetting your pup back into its original stationary position when she breaks a command, rather than allowing her to self correct or move on without accountability. This practice plays a significant role in shaping reliable obedience, building clear communication, and maintaining the integrity of the training process. When Lulu is given a command, such as sit or down, and chooses to break that position prematurely, resetting her back to her original spot sends a clear and consistent message that the command was not optional, nor was it completed correctly. This simple yet powerful action reinforces the expectation that the command is to be maintained until I releases her, rather than allowing Lulu to determine when the exercise is over. Allowing her to break position without resetting often leads to confusion and inconsistent behavior, as she learns that she can self-dismiss or disregard commands without consequence. Additionally, resetting Lulu back to her position strengthens her understanding of accountability and enhances her mental discipline. It encourages Lulu to think critically and remain engaged, as she realizes that success is measured not just by executing the command initially, but also by holding that position until instructed otherwise. Follow-through and resets help prevent the development of stubbornness, selective listening, and impulsivity, which are all common challenges in dogs. Without clear correction and redirection, Lulu may perceive her own choices as equally valid to the our commands, which can erode obedience over time and create frustration for both Lulu and ourselves. By calmly and consistently guiding her back into position, I teach persistence, patience, and respect for the training process. Ultimately, resetting Lulu when she breaks a command is not about punishment, but about reinforcing structure and clarity. It is one of the most effective ways to ensure she fully understands what is being asked, remains focused, and develops into a reliable and well mannered companion.
Taking Lulu 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 Lulu, 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 Lulu’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 Lulu 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 Lulu and yourself. By committing to regular walks, we not only enhance our pup’s well-being, but also enrich our own lives and the community we inhabit.
When working on socializing our dogs, maintaining a calm and relaxed demeanor as owners is crucial to facilitating a positive and productive experience. The emotional state of a dog can be significantly influenced by the behavior and attitudes of its owner. Dogs are naturally attuned to human emotions and can pick up on our stress or anxiety. If an owner approaches a socialization situation feeling tense or fearful, their dog is likely to sense this unease and may respond with similar apprehension. In contrast, a relaxed and confident owner sets a reassuring tone, which can help the dog feel more secure and open to new experiences. Moreover, remaining calm allows owners to better read their dog's body language and responses to other dogs. Dogs communicate primarily through body language, and an owner who is attentive and composed is in a better position to recognize signs of discomfort, aggression, or playfulness in their dog. This awareness facilitates timely interventions if necessary, allowing the owner to guide their dog's interactions and minimize any potential stress or conflict. Instead of reacting impulsively to a situation, a calm owner can thoughtfully assess the dynamics at play and make informed decisions about how to proceed. Additionally, a relaxed approach encourages positive reinforcement during socialization. When owners exhibit calmness, they are more likely to remain patient and supportive, reinforcing desirable behaviors in their dogs. This creates a foundation of trust and mutual respect, fostering a positive learning environment for their dog. In contrast, if owners become frustrated or anxious, they may inadvertently associate negative experiences with socialization, making it more challenging for the dog to develop confidence and social skills. Socialization is as much about learning for us as owners as it is for Lulu. By staying calm, we can reflect on our training strategies and adapt them to better suit Lulu’s needs. This adaptability is vital, as each dog has its unique personality and comfort level. A composed owner can approach each interaction with an understanding that patience and consistency are essential. This mindset not only helps in managing the immediate situation but also contributes to long-term successful socialization outcomes. We play a pivotal role in our dog's socialization journey. By remaining calm and relaxed during introductions to other pups, we not only promote a positive and safe environment but also enhance our ability to guide Lulu’s behavior. This approach builds a sense of security for her, fosters better communication, and ultimately leads to healthier and more enjoyable social interactions. Recognizing the impact of our own emotions, we can cultivate a more effective and enriching socialization experience for our pups.
Lulu 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 Lulu'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 Lulu with a clear understanding of the expectations regarding her duration while I increased the distance between us. Lulu 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 Lulu'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 Lulu's learning pace. This modification proved effective, as Lulu showed improvement in her responsiveness to her down.
Establishing good food and door manners offers a multitude of benefits, not only for Lulu, 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 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. 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 Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu, but also helps to avoid potential conflicts with other animals or people that may be outside. Furthermore, instilling door manners promotes a sense of discipline and structure in Lulu’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.
Lulu 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 Lulu, 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 Lulu 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, Lulu 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 Lulu’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 Lulu’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 Lulu 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 Lulu understands expectations, leading to a more reliable and obedient pup.
In the course of Lulu’s training program, I have been dedicated to enhancing her greeting manners, a crucial aspect of her socialization and overall behavior. Initially, Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu during interactions. Throughout the training process, Lulu 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 Lulu’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.
Transitioning a dog from on-leash to off-leash freedom is an exciting prospect for many dog owners, especially after investing time and resources in professional training. However, it is crucial for owners to spend a couple of weeks working with their dogs on a leash before allowing them to roam freely. This process not only reinforces the training the dog has received but also builds a stronger bond between the owner and their pet, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for both. First and foremost, practicing on-leash commands allows us as owners to review and reinforce the behaviors learned during training. Simply having a dog trained for off-leash obedience does not guarantee that it will respond flawlessly in every scenario encountered in the real world. By continuing to work with Lulu while on a leash, you can ensure consistent execution of commands such as sit, stay, and come. This repetition serves as a form of practice for Lulu, solidifying her understanding of what is expected when off-leash. Additionally, this on-leash period creates an opportunity for you to gauge her responsiveness in various environments and situations. Dogs can be unpredictable, and exposure to new stimuli—such as other animals, people, or unfamiliar surroundings—may affect Lulu’s behavior. By maintaining a leash during this acclimatization phase, you are better equipped to correct any lapses in obedience before granting her the full freedom of off-leash status. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of potential reinforcements of negative behaviors that could arise if she is allowed to run free without adequate supervision or control. Building a robust communication framework is another critical aspect of this process. When Lulu is accustomed to working with you while on a leash, she becomes more attuned to your signals and responses. This ongoing interaction fosters trust and a deeper understanding of each other's cues. It is essential for dogs to learn that their owner's commands remain valid regardless of whether they are attached to a leash or roaming freely. Strengthening this line of communication can drastically improve a dog's ability to respond positively to commands when off-leash, thus enhancing overall safety. In conclusion, it is imperative for dog owners, even those who have completed off-leash training, to spend a couple of weeks practicing with their pups on a leash before permitting them to roam without restraint. This practice reinforces training, enhances communication, addresses potential behavior issues, and fosters a stronger bond between you and Lulu. Taking these cautious steps ultimately sets the stage for a safe and enjoyable off-leash experience, ensuring lasting benefits for both of you.
Lulu 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 Lulu’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, Lulu 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 Lulu 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 Lulu’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, Lulu!
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