F.A.Q.

Clicker training is a scientifically proven method for training animals. Studies have shown animals learn 33% faster when clicker trained vs. other methods. The clicker is a marker and serves as  a bridge from when the desired behaviour is performed to the delivery of the reinforcer (food). It will strengthen your relationship with your dog because it’s a forgiving method of learning, simply put – if your dog doesn’t do the right thing, the consequence is no click and they simply try again.

We often take video or photos of clients and/or their dogs during sessions. These may be used for social media or be published in print, electronic or video format unless discussed and written notice received.

There are two types of markers that we use at Wag With Me. The clicker and the word YES. In order for markers to be effective, the unbreakable promise of a food treat must be kept. Both “Yes” and the clicker are short unusual sounds that don’t happen often in normal conversation. A clicker has more precise timing, and it is consistently the same sound so our pup is able to learn quicker, however, the word “Yes” is still a great option as you always have it with you wherever you go. It is totally fine to switch back and forth between markers as long as the treat promise remains unbroken.

In any relationship, trust and communication are the most important factors, and at Wag With Me it's no different. We will help build up your relationship with your pup, so that both you and your dog feel confident moving forward. We will encourage the dog to think for him/herself and be able to freely make deliberate choices of good behaviour rather than living in fear of being punished for making the wrong choice .

You bet we use food! Of course some dogs may have variations in how rewarding they find food, but we believe, it's about finding the right type of food motivation (for example kibble vs steak). When dogs eat/digest their food, they get endorphins which ultimately will allow them to make better choices! Timing is so important in dog training, which is why we will teach you how to reward your dog accurately so you never have to say “they only do it when they know I have a treat”.

While phasing out food lures or prompts is possible for certain simple behaviours, phasing out rewards all-together is not. Rewards can come in a number of ways, whether that be food, toys, or best of all attention from you! Reinforcement drives behaviour, meaning if you reward what you want to see, that behaviour will be repeated! Please remember that when you go to work, you are being rewarded for your work with a pay check, so why wouldn't you want to do the same for your pup? No reward or praise = no work! 

We will use a well-fitted harness with front and back clip attachment along with a 6-8ft flat leash. We will also use a flat collar as well depending on the behaviours we are working on. A long-line may be used if necessary for some exercises such as recall.. We won’t use any equipment that will cause your dog discomfort. ​