Our Training Method
Just like humans - dogs need to learn both 'yes' and 'no' in order to live a well-balanced, happy life. Using positive reinforcement, we show your dog that they’re safe and supported. Instead of just teaching them to 'sit' or avoiding things that make them anxious, we help them truly feel comfortable, giving them the tools to cope with their emotions.
But let’s be real — sometimes they’ll need a little extra help when they’re thinking about doing something they shouldn’t. That’s where we bring in interruptions and redirections, guiding them toward better decisions. We’re all about being fair here — no scary tactics, just clear communication.
Your dog won’t become a robot or lose their quirky personality - we promise! (The quirks are our favorite too)
Our methods combine expert behavioral training (kind of like doggy therapy) and solid obedience training to give you a training program that's relatable, effective, and fun for both of you!
The Spectrum of Dog Training
When it comes to Obedience training, the best way to understand it all is to think of training methods on sliding scale. On one end, you have Purely Positive (Force-Free) training and on the opposite end of the spectrum you have what is called Compulsion training.
Command Canine is in the middle.
Purely Positive
Compulsion
Purely Positive Training
On one extreme, you have Purely Positive (or "Force Free") trainers. They ONLY use positive reinforcement techniques. It's basically a method that tries to teach your dog by ONLY being able to tell them YES by ONLY using treats and food.
A good analogy is to think of riding in a car with someone. Imagine giving them directions by ONLY being able to tell them YES whenever they make the correct turn, and never tell them when they are making a wrong turn. They are going to make a ton of wrong turns before they stumble upon the correct turn. It will likely end up causing a lot of confusion and frustration.
We get so many calls from people that have gone through Purely Positive training that are still struggling. And the reason why is simple, their dogs have only been taught half of the equation. It often leads to very inconsistent results. When training is inconsistent it can lead to an undesirable situation for you, your dog, or someone else.
Compulsion Training
On the opposite end of the spectrum you have what is called COMPULSION training. This was developed for police and military dogs. A lot of former military trainers use this. It is extremely disciplined and strict. It's mostly telling your dog what they CAN'T do by using aggressive corrections. A lot of people find this method to be a bit harsh. It may be ok for police and military dogs, but not appropriate for pets.
We also get calls from people that have put their dogs through Compulsion training. Aside from them feeling that it was way too aggressive, they also feel that they end up with a robotic dog that is almost fearful of making the wrong decision. Our Founder, Chelsey, unfortunately saw this early on in her career.
She strongly disagrees with these methods. It’s one of the main reasons Command Canine was founded.
How We Train for Obedience (Manners)
On the scale of obedience training, Command Canine is in the middle.
Unlike most trainers, our Founder, Chelsey, has been educated in all areas of the scale. She has attended multiple, HANDS-ON, in-person dog training programs, not just online courses. (Make sure to ask any trainer if their education was only online based) After training professionally for 10 years, Chelsey has developed our training programs based upon methods she has seen proven to be the most effective.
A common sense approach
We utilize multiple techniques in order to teach your dog as effectively as possible. We use a ton of positive reinforcement techniques such as food, treats, marker training, enrichment exercises to teach them what we want them to do, and that's where we bring in interruptions and redirections, guiding them towards better decisions. No scary tactics - just clear communication.
How We Train for Behavior Modification (Mind)
We specialize in Behavior Modification or what we refer to as “Mind” Training.
It’s important to emphasize that Behavior Modification training requires a very different knowledge base, experience and training methods than Obedience (Manners). Our team is lead by Behavior Modification Specialists that have over 50 years combined experience in Behavior Modification. We understand how a dog’s mind processes information and perceives their environment.
You may think your dog's actions mean one thing, but it could actually be something completely different.
That is why our assessment is so important. Every assessment is done by one of our Behavior Specialists. They are the experts that can determine what specific behavioral issues may be causing your dog to behave a certain way.
Without your trainer having a strong understanding of behavioral issues, your dog could be put through a program that misses or ignores a behavioral issue and could actually create or intensify aggressive or anxious behavior, which could lead to a dangerous situation.
Some of our Behavioral Techniques
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Counter Conditioning
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Behavior Adjustment Training
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Desensitization
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Constructional Aggression Treatment
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LAT Protocol
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Relaxation Protocol - by Dr. Karen Overall
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TBTE Behavioral Downs
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Confidence Boosting through
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Habituation with the Reticular Activating System
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Coping Mechanisms and Stress Management
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Cooperative Care for Vet visits and groomer handling
Many training companies promote Behavior Modification services. We suggest that you do as much research as possible. This is not a decision that you should take lightly. Ask a ton of questions, read reviews or speak with former clients of dogs that have gone through their Behavior Modification program.
We helped so many people just like you. Don't put it off any longer. Get started on a better path today.