Dog Training Takes Commitment from Owners and Pups

The perspective of a dog is often overlooked when a people are considering a new pet to add to the family. Thoughts about how cute a dog looks often overshadow the consideration of the type of lifestyle the dog requires.

Aley Horner, 22, understands the importance of learning about different canine communication styles. She is a dog handler at Central Bark, a member at the Milwaukee Dog Training Club (MDTC), and an owner of two large dogs, Kelso and Cubby.

For almost three years, sun or snow, Horner’s Sunday mornings have started with taking Kelso to a field full of other dogs that are also learning obedience training.

“The most helpful part about going to a training club is staying accountable to participating in proper socialization,” Horner said. “It can be a large time commitment, both to classes and practice at home.”

Dog handlers observe dogs to understand how to communicate with them and correct disobedient behaviors. The MDTC aims to help people understand their dogs and establish a better relationship based on mutual trust.

“If a dog can do well when they’re by so many other dogs, they’re going to do awesome when they’re by themselves,” said MDTC volunteer instructor Laura Sadler.

Claude Szpot, MDTC building and grounds volunteer, describes dog training as a conversation to share tips and techniques. By socializing with other animals, people will understand that they have the same problems with their dogs as others do.

“By training, there are goals for me, and goals for the dog,” Szpot said. “Having a well-behaved dog is the most rewarding thing you can have; it just takes time and consistency.”

Director of Training Kim Rinzel coordinates instructors for obedience classes and coaches dog owners. Rinzel can see a relationship form when the dog looks to its handler for permission to perform a task.

“Dogs are living creators and have opinions of their own, which don’t always agree with their people,” Rinzel said. “The more connection you have with your dog, the less likely the dog needs to lash out. You as a handler know how to get through situations where it’s uncomfortable, so it just makes everybody more settled and polite.”

Although it may take time for a dog to socialize politely, training should start as soon as the dog arrives home. Simple commands like “sit, wait, stay, front, calm” are good to start. Rinzel uses the “no free lunch” program to prevent begging.

“Dogs don’t get stuff because they’re cute– they have to learn to earn it by saying ‘please,’” Rinzel said. “Once people stop putting human skills on the dog, and look at the dog as a dog, training becomes so much easier.”