Klaus | German Shepherd | Long Beach, CA

Meet Klaus! He is a six month old German Shepherd who has joined us for our Two Week Board and Train Program. Klaus is here for basic obedience, leash pulling, and jumping to greet. He does well with other people but gets overly excited around other dogs which leads to excessive barking from him. The goal for Klaus is to have proper leash manners, as well as proper socialization when in the presence of other pups. Over the next fourteen days, he will be working on his behavior and be set up for success, with the hopes of becoming a well mannered pup. Check in to see his progress!

Klaus and I spent the afternoon getting to know each other 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 establishing a bond and enhancing Klaus's obedience skills. Throughout our time together, I noticed Klaus exhibiting behavior where he would frequently pull ahead and move erratically from left to right behind me. To address this, I introduced him to the heel command, which requires him to walk beside me on my left side. This command is crucial for ensuring that he 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 Klaus pulled away from my side. This method involved making a U-turn and guiding him back towards my left with appropriate leash tension. This approach not only helps Klaus understand the desired position, but also teaches him the importance of maintaining proximity and attentiveness to my movements. While Klaus is still mastering this skill, I am committed to incorporating the heel command into every walk moving forward to solidify his understanding and compliance. Additionally, I have included a video tutorial on the e-collar and its functionalities in today's pupdate. This resource will be beneficial for you to familiarize yourself with the equipment, as Klaus will be coming home with an e-collar that has its own serial number as seen in the images below. The e-collar will serve as an effective training tool to further enhance his learning and behavior management. I look forward to our training journey with Klaus, strengthening our bond while helping him develop the skills necessary for a well adjusted and obedient companion.

Klaus and I focused on his recall exercise known as come to sit. This exercise requires Klaus to approach my right side, navigate behind me, and then settle down on my left. To facilitate this learning process, I employed leash tension as a guiding mechanism, which proved effective in helping him understand the desired behavior. Although Klaus demonstrated a good comprehension of the task, he exhibited some reluctance to sit on my left side and would try to sit behind me. To address this challenge, I utilized leash tension, took a step forward, and guided him towards me. Additionally, I paired these physical cues with a verbal sit, complemented by a stimulation from his e-collar to reinforce the behavior. The training session was a little challenging, as Klaus tested my consistency and approach, but I was able to succeed in getting him to follow through with the command. Although Klaus does require further practice to solidify his understanding, I am committed to maintaining a consistent and repetitive training regimen to enhance his responsiveness. He did very well his first night here, sleeping in his crate throughout the night, and he is adjusting well to his new environment for the next two weeks.

Klaus and I worked on place today. Place is an essential command that serves to establish boundaries and promote desired behaviors in various situations. This command instructs Klaus 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 Klaus 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 he 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 Klaus to the designated spot we practiced on which was a park bench. As I approached the bench with him, I applied gentle tension on the leash to encourage him to move forward. When Klaus stepped onto it, I immediately released the tension on the leash, signaling that he has made the correct choice. Timing here is crucial, so the moment Klaus made contact with the bench, he was immediately rewarded with praise and affection. Using a cheerful tone of voice, petting, and verbal affirmations like "good boy," helps reinforce this positive behavior. Once Klaus began to understand the association between the leash pressure and the verbal place, I gradually increased the duration he remained there. Consistency is key in this training process, so with regular practice sessions, combined with patience and positive reinforcement, it will help Klaus understand the command fully. Over time, I will introduce distractions gradually while he maintains the place command, ensuring that he learns to remain in position regardless of environmental changes.

Klaus and I worked on his down command. Upon entering the program, Klaus demonstrated a foundational understanding of this command, however, he required some reconditioning to refine his skills and enhance his responsiveness. Our approach has emphasized consistency and positive reinforcement, which has proven effective in fostering Klaus' learning experience. Through dedicated practice and structured sessions, Klaus has shown improvement and is now executing his down command with increased confidence. His ability to follow through on commands has been commendable, reflecting both his commitment to the training and the effectiveness of our methodology. As Klaus continues to progress, I am excited to introduce him to various distractions in a controlled environment. This next phase will involve gradually socializing him with other dogs, which is essential for his development as a well rounded and obedient companion. By exposing Klaus to different scenarios and stimuli, we aim to build his focus and adaptability, further solidifying the commands he has learned.

Klaus and I collaborated with fellow trainers and their dogs to address his reactive behavior towards other pups. Upon our initial meeting, Klaus exhibited excessive barking, reminiscent of his behavior on the day I first brought him home. To effectively manage this reactivity, we commenced our training from a safe distance where Klaus felt more secure and was less prone to react. As the session progressed, I gradually decreased the distance between Klaus and the other dogs. This incremental approach allowed us to closely monitor his responses and intervene appropriately. When Klaus demonstrated signs of intent to react, I utilized an e-collar stimulation in conjunction with a firm verbal cue of “off.” This combination was aimed at redirecting his focus and preventing any negative reactions. After successfully redirecting his behavior, I reinforced his positive actions with treats and verbal praise, which is crucial in building his confidence and encouraging desired behaviors. It is important to note that occasional whining from Klaus during this initial session is a normal response, especially given that this was his first exposure to a structured training environment with distractions. Despite this, his ability to progress and exhibit improved behavior is a significant step forward in his training journey. Additionally, we encountered a minor malfunction with Klaus' e-collar, where one of the contact points was not functioning properly. I have replaced the e-collar, which has a new serial number, and has been documented in today’s pupdate.

Klaus and I drove out to a local park to work on his down a little more. He does well with it, but at times he likes to challenge me into not doing it. Anytime that occurs, it is important to work Klaus through it and have him follow through. Dogs are remarkable companions, yet they can sometimes exhibit challenging behaviors, particularly when it comes to following commands that they already understand. This phenomenon can be perplexing for dog owners, but it is rooted in a combination of instinct, emotional state, and the dynamics of their relationship with humans. Understanding why dogs may resist commands is crucial for owners who wish to maintain a harmonious relationship while ensuring their dog remains well behaved and responsive. One of the primary reasons dogs may challenge commands lies in their instinctual nature. Dogs are social animals and in the wild, they thrive in packs where social structure and hierarchy are crucial for survival. This instinct can manifest in domesticated dogs as they seek to establish their status within the human family unit. When Klaus refuses to obey a command, he is testing authority, trying to ascertain whether we are reliable leaders. This behavior is not necessarily defiant, rather it reflects a natural inclination to understand his place in the social order. Additionally, emotional factors play a significant role in a dog's willingness to obey commands. Dogs experience a range of emotions, including excitement and boredom. If Klaus is overly excited or distracted by his surroundings, he may choose not to follow a command due to him being more interested in exploring his environment. Understanding these emotional triggers is essential for us as owners, as it underscores the importance of creating a calm and focused atmosphere during training sessions. Addressing these challenges is paramount for dog owners. When a dog refuses to obey, it is essential to work through the issue rather than simply dismiss it as disobedience. By patiently guiding Klaus to understand and follow commands, we reinforce our role as a leader while simultaneously boosting Klaus’ confidence and understanding. This process often involves positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, or play, which not only encourages compliance, but also builds a positive association with following commands.

Taking your dog on routine walks is an essential aspect of responsible pet ownership and plays a crucial role in ensuring the overall health and well being of your canine companion. Dogs, by nature, are active animals that require regular physical activity to maintain their physical health, mental stimulation, and emotional balance. One of the primary reasons for walking your dog is to help release pent up energy. Dogs that do not receive sufficient exercise can become restless, leading to behavioral issues such as excessive barking, chewing, or even aggression. Regular walks provide an outlet for this energy, allowing dogs to engage in physical activity that helps to burn off excess calories and promote a healthy weight. Additionally, routine walks contribute significantly to a dog's mental stimulation. The world is rich with sights, sounds, and smells that intrigue dogs, and walking allows them to explore their environment. Each outing presents new experiences, from encountering other dogs and people, to smelling various scents that provide a wealth of information about their surroundings. This mental engagement is just as important as physical exercise as it helps prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors. By incorporating walks into your dog’s daily routine, you actively contribute to their mental health and emotional stability. Moreover, walking your dog provides valuable opportunities for socialization. Dogs are pack animals that thrive on social interactions, and walks expose them to a variety of stimuli, such as other animals, children, and different environments. This exposure is crucial for developing a well rounded dog. When dogs are regularly introduced to diverse situations and stimuli, they learn to adapt and respond appropriately, reducing anxiety and fear in unfamiliar settings. This process of gradual exposure helps build confidence in dogs, allowing them to become more comfortable in various environments, which is especially beneficial for puppies as they develop their social skills. Routine walks can also reinforce the bond between you and your dog. These outings create a shared experience that enhances the relationship, fostering trust and companionship. The time spent together during walks allows for communication, training opportunities, and positive reinforcement, which are vital for developing a strong and healthy bond. As you navigate different environments and situations together, your dog learns to rely on you for guidance and reassurance, further solidifying the bond you share.

Klaus and I worked on some leash dragging exercises as he prepares for his off leash experience. Training Klaus with his leash dragging before transitioning to off leash freedom is a crucial step in his overall obedience and safety. This method serves several essential purposes that contribute to a more seamless and effective off leash experience. Firstly, allowing Klaus to wear a dragging leash in a controlled environment helps me observe and manage his behavior without the immediate pressure of a fully restrained situation. This gradual introduction enables Klaus to explore his surroundings while still being under my supervision. The leash acts as a safety net, allowing for quick intervention if he begins to stray too far or engages in undesirable behaviors. This setup fosters a sense of security for both of us, as I can provide guidance and correction if necessary. Additionally, leash dragging allows Klaus to become accustomed to the feeling of freedom while still being tethered. It can encourage Klaus to engage with his environment and build confidence in his ability to explore. This confidence is essential when transitioning to off leash freedom, as a dog that is comfortable exploring on a dragging leash is more likely to maintain focus and respond positively to commands when fully off leash. It also emphasizes the importance of recall training. With his leash dragging, I can practice recall commands in a low stress setting. Klaus learns that returning to me results in positive reinforcement, whether it be treats, praise, or playtime. This practice is critical, as it establishes a strong foundation for Klaus to respond reliably to commands even when distractions are present. The dragging leash serves as an immediate tool for correction if he fails to respond, reinforcing the importance of responding to commands. He did very well with minimal distractions, and will now be challenged to work the same way around other pups.

Klaus and I focused on enhancing his leash dragging exercises, emphasizing his place and down commands while introducing distractions in the form of other dogs. Throughout our session, it was evident that Klaus is making progress, as he demonstrated an improved ability to maintain his composure despite the presence of his fellow pups. He remains somewhat distracted, yet he has shown commendable restraint by not breaking his commands or attempting to interact with the other dogs. A significant milestone during our practice was Klaus' ability to stay in position without requiring me to hold his leash, even as another dog walked back and forth nearby. This achievement reflects his growing understanding of the commands and his developing self control. Looking ahead, I plan to transition Klaus into a more public environment in the coming days. This will provide him with further opportunities to practice his commands in a setting with more distractions, which is crucial for his training. Once I observe consistent adherence to his commands in this new setting, I will take the next step by removing his leash, allowing him to work without it. This progression will be vital in building his confidence and reinforcing his training, ensuring that he can reliably follow commands in a variety of situations.

In our recent training session, Klaus and I focused on refining his leash dragging exercises in a public setting, which provided an excellent opportunity to assess his progress and address any challenges he faced. The environment was bustling with various distractions, presenting a realistic context for Klaus to exhibit his skills. I was pleased to observe that he performed well with his recall and heel commands, demonstrating an understanding of these critical behaviors. His ability to respond promptly and accurately in the face of distractions highlighted the effectiveness of our prior training sessions. However, we encountered some difficulties with Klaus’ place command and duration down. These commands are essential for establishing stability and control, particularly in dynamic environments. Recognizing that he needed additional support in these areas, we decided to take a step back and reinforce his foundational skills using his leash. This approach allowed us to re-establish clear communication and expectations, which are vital for his overall training success. By focusing on these commands with the leash, I was able to guide Klaus more effectively and provide immediate feedback on his performance. Through several repetitions, he began to show consistency in executing the commands, which was encouraging. This phase of training not only reinforced his understanding, but also built his confidence as he successfully followed through with the behaviors we practiced. Once Klaus demonstrated a reliable response while on leash, I transitioned him to working without leash tension. This step was crucial for his development as it mimics the conditions of off leash training, where he would need to rely on his training and instincts rather than physical guidance. I was delighted to see that Klaus adapted well to this new challenge, maintaining focus and executing his commands effectively even without the security of leash guidance. His ability to navigate this transition with success indicates a growing level of maturity and understanding in his training.

Over the course of his training program, significant progress has been made in enhancing Klaus’ door manners, which has resulted in a marked improvement in his overall behavior during door transitions. Initially, Klaus exhibited impulsive behavior at times, attempting to rush through the door the moment it was opened. This behavior not only posed safety concerns, but also highlighted the need for structured training to foster patience and self control. The training commenced with a focus on establishing foundational commands, particularly sit and down. By consistently reinforcing these commands, Klaus learned to associate his sitting or lying down with the appropriate behavior expected when a door is opened. This initial phase involved repeated practice sessions, where I would intentionally open the door while monitoring Klaus’ response. If he displayed any signs of excitement or attempted to move from his position, the door would be closed, and the exercise would be restarted. This method emphasized the importance of patience and waiting for a cue before proceeding. As Klaus became more accustomed to the training routine, I began to gradually increase the distance and duration of the waits, which further solidified his understanding of the desired behavior. This approach not only helped Klaus develop better impulse control, but also instilled a sense of discipline that is essential for any pup. The patience he has learned is now evident as he waits calmly and attentively before being given the signal to go through any door.

Over the course of the training program, I have been focusing on enhancing Klaus’ food manners. Upon his entry into the program, Klaus exhibited a foundational understanding of the concept of waiting before eating, but he required further reconditioning to solidify this behavior. In the initial stages of our training, I implemented a structured approach where I asked Klaus to wait approximately thirty seconds before he was allowed to eat his food. This period served as a vital step in establishing self control and patience. I was pleased to observe that Klaus responded positively during this phase, demonstrating a willingness to comply with the wait command. As Klaus began to show consistency in his ability to wait, I gradually extended the duration of the wait time. This incremental approach not only reinforced his understanding of the command, but also helped him build the necessary patience required during mealtime. Over time, Klaus has made progress, and he can now wait for my cue with patience before being released to enjoy his meals. Through this process, Klaus has not only improved his food manners, but has also developed a deeper understanding of impulse control and the importance of following commands. His transformation is a testament to his dedication and the effectiveness of a structured training regimen. I am excited to continue working with Klaus as he further refines his skills and exhibits even greater discipline in his daily routines.

Throughout my engagement with Klaus, I have been focusing on his greeting manners, which initially presented an overly enthusiastic response to visitors. Klaus' tendency to jump on individuals as they approached indicated a need for behavioral adjustment, particularly in how he interacted with others. Recognizing the importance of fostering a calm and composed demeanor in social situations, I implemented a structured training exercise aimed at redirecting his energy and reinforcing appropriate behavior. The core of my approach involved teaching Klaus to maintain a relaxed state when encountering new people. This was achieved through consistent practice and positive reinforcement, where I guided him to sit calmly as a preferred greeting behavior. Each time Klaus exhibited his previous jumping behavior, I would gently reset him back into the sitting position, emphasizing the importance of patience and composure. This repetitive exercise not only helped Klaus understand the desired behavior, but also allowed him to develop a sense of self control during interactions. Over the course of his program, Klaus has shown improvement in his greeting manners. His ability to remain calm and composed when approached by others has increased, demonstrating his understanding of the new behavior expectations. As a result of our work together, Klaus is now successfully executing his greeting manners, providing a more pleasant and controlled interaction for both himself and those he meets.

Klaus has completed his Two Week Board and Train Program and is ready to come home. I want to thank you for trusting me with Klaus while he was under my care and for the opportunity in being his trainer. He has learned so much in just a short amount of time, and I am proud of his results. He is capable of being an off leash pup, but I highly recommend that he remains on leash as you continue to expose him to different environments. His final video will be coming soon, but in the meantime, here is a sneak peek of Klaus showcasing what he has learned throughout his time with me. Thank you Klaus!

Klaus | German Shepherd | Long Beach, CA | In-Training

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