Because I am working to develop my skills as a dog handler, I am starting a training regimen with Ripley, completely from scratch.
Because I strive to expand my own personal dog whispering potential, I don't have any interest in taking traditional classes or getting an animal trainer certification. My dream come true would be to apprentice with THE Dog Whisperer himself, Cesar Millan. And I am working on making that happen...But in the meantime, I plan to work with Ripley, like I do with all dogs, from a purely 'instinctual' and energetic platform. I am, however, using some training tools, including treats, a clicker and the Gentle Leader leash and head collar - all brand new territory not only for Ripley, but for me as well.
Ripley is a golden retriever mix, approximately 3 years old, whose attention span is comparable to that of a gnat. I believe training/ exercising in a structured fashion will modify this. The great news is, Ripley has tons of energy that we can channel into his training; he is also very smart. This is a great combination of traits in a canine 'student'. I think learning and working are going to be fun for Ripley, and help him be the best dog he can be! Furthermore, because I am consciously guiding the training process with rules, boundaries and limitations in mind, I believe these activities will help Ripley to better focus and use his energy constructively, (rather than DEstructively, as in through digging up the yard, wandering and barking).
I am already a firm believer in the Gentle Leader, because walking with Lili (boxer) is a dream, and she was trained using said leash. They call it the "10 minute attitude adjustment" for a reason! I'll talk more about the leash as we progress. But for now, here's a cute picture of Ripley on his first real day of leash training!
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