Dog Training
Our Senior Dog Trainer is Andy Coates. He has been training dogs for security companies and game keepers since 1986.
In the world of dog training there are so many dog trainers and behaviourists with differing methods and opinions. We are often asked which dog training method is best? Our reply is "It depends on the owner and the dog". But everyone seems to agree that the best approach is to work on communication between the dog and handler.
If you take the problem of a dog pulling as an example there are nearly as many methods and philosophies as there are dogs. You can use a clicker, a choke or check chain, the Canny Collar, Halti, harness, only positive reinforcement, whistle blowers, dog listeners.
I think most methods that do not involve cruelty have merit and the best way to find the right method for your dog is to find a trainer that has experience of as many methods as possible. At Black Banks we have studied most of these methods and have a good working knowledge of them. We prefer to stay open minded and find out what works for your dog rather than just saying that one method or the other is best.
We believe that each dog and handler are different and what works for one might not work for another. After an initial assessment with us we will work with the owner and the dog to find the most suitable method.
We are careful to avoid cruel or outdated training methods. We use a combination of techniques to suit each individual situation. We believe every situation is unique and there is never one method that fits all. Dog training is best achieved by creating a strong bond between handler and dog then communicating with the dog as to what is and what isn't acceptable behaviour. Dogs do not automatically know what is acceptable behaviour. We have to teach them that then use positive reinforcement to get them to repeat this behaviour.
So how do we do all this? We start by showing the dog what we want it to do then rewarding him/her every time they do it. We then make this into a fun set of exercises which both the handler and the dog enjoy.
Dog Training Packages
At Black Banks we have responded to our clients needs and have expanded our training to include a mobile service where we come to you to help train your dog in your own home or at a local park or walking spot. Our mobile dog training service covers the following areas: Darlington, Bishop Auckland, Catterick, Northallerton, Stockton on Tees, Middlesbrough, Yarm, Barnard Castle and even Tyneside for a small premium to cover fuel.
We now offer three training packages:
1) Boarding & Training
Various options are available starting with Basic Obedience which includes 2 weeks boarding giving great value, particularly if you are going on holiday anyway. We will do a free initial assessment with you and your dog prior to the commencement of this training to work out the best method and check suitability. With all boarding and training packages if you are not satisfied with the training when we demonstrate the dog to you on your return you need only pay the boarding fee.
Basic Obedience
When you collect your dog his or her obedience will be at a good basic level and we will be able to demonstrate to you the following:
- Walk on a lead without distractions and not cause any undue inconvenience or pulling
- Understand the commands "sit" and "down"
- Control at gate or door - your dog will be able to walk through a gate or door without pulling the handler through. The dog should wait at one side of the gate (on a lead) until called through by the handler then stay in place whilst the handler secures the gate or door.
- Controlled walk past people with other dogs (please note this can only be done if your dog is not aggressive with other dogs to start with, dog to dog aggression is dealt with under a different program). The object is for the handler to remain in control of their dog whilst walking amongst people, dogs and distractions. The dog should behave in a quiet, relaxed and controlled manner whilst the handler holds a short conversation.
- The dog will stay on the spot while the handler moves away for one minute. The handler should remain in sight, place the dog on lead in any position e.g. stand, sit or down and be able to drop the lead for 1 minute.
- Recall - the handler will release the dog from its lead, distance themselves away from the dog then be able to recall the dog. Having rejoined, the dog should stop close to the handler in any position and the lead shall be replaced.
Further boarding and training packages are available including Search and Track, Security Patrol Dog, Protection Dog and Advanced Obedience.
2) One to One lessons at our Training & Activity Facility
Come to our fully equipped and secure training facility where we have the choice to train in quiet, distraction-free surroundings or, as you and your dog advance, we can train under the distraction of other dogs and humans walking about. The duration of the lesson is between 45 mins to one hour depending on the dog's attention span. Learning to train your own dog is usually a rewarding and fun experience for both the handler and the dog and you will learn a new life skill. We will teach you how to communicate effectively with your dog using positive reinforcement to get your dog to show the behaviours you want.
3) One to One lessons at your home or place local to you
We will come to your home or a place close and convenient to you. The duration of the lesson is between 45 mins to one hour depending on the dog's attention span. Learning to train your own dog is usually a rewarding and fun experience for both the handler and the dog and you will learn a new life skill. We will teach you how to communicate effectively with your dog using positive reinforcement to get your dog to show the behaviours you want.
Specialist Dog Training
As responsible dog trainers we are only too aware of the problems dangerous dogs can cause in the wrong hands. We do get many calls from irresponsible people wanting guard dogs that snarl, bite, attack, etc. for whatever reason. And they want them tonight or tomorrow! If you are one of those people, please don't waste your time calling us, the answer will be no! We only do specialist training with a select few people and then only after both the dog and handler have gone through a strict selection process where obedience training and assessment for temperament and suitability are carried out.
Of course, each dog is an individual and if you have specific problems with your dog or you have any further queries please feel free to give us ring and arrange a free assessment at our training facility in Darlington. We are also happy to carry out home appointments. We cover the Tees Valley and County Durham areas including Middlesbrough, Stockton, Durham and Bishop Auckland.
