The Linker Learning Centre for Dogs has been teaching dogs communication skills for the past 28 years. My theory on dog training is that dogs do not need to be subservient to us to learn. We do not have to be the pack leader. My dog is my equal unless it shows aggression towards me or another person. They do not need treats for tricks, clickers to tell them that they are good or correction to teach a command. Love and communication skills are all that a dog needs.

I feel that group dog training classes are too distractive of a situation for a dog to be introduced to a new behavior. A collar should be used to get a dog’s attention long enough to teach them something. When a dog is distracted it takes multiple pulls on a collar to get attention. A dog should have a chance to learn in a quiet environment. When a dog fully understands an exercise, distractions can be introduced. I do not teach a dog anything until the dog looks to me when its name is called. Why would a dog want to look at me when there are potentially 15 buddies running around a room? Therefore, a dog should be introduced to new exercises in a one on one, private session or at home prior to attending a class.