5 Signs Your Dog Needs Professional Training

Many dog owners know if there is an issue that is not working. Perhaps your walks have turned into a wrestling match. Perhaps you cannot take your dog anywhere without being embarrassed. Perhaps you simply are exhausted. Below are the five ways you know that your dog requires professional training and what you can do about it.

1) Lead Work Has Become an Issue

If your dog is dragging you down the street, lunging at every person that passes, or has made your walks into a workout that you did not request, you have a lead work problem. The issue is not the force that your dog is using; it is the lack of understanding between you and your dog as to the use of the lead. Both you and your dog are frustrated.

In Equilibrium Canine's lead work sessions, we help you and your dog to establish a way of communicating with each other through the use of the lead. There are no gimmicks; it is simply you, your dog, and the lead. Our weekly group lead work sessions are $50.00 per person and are designed to help you and your dog develop this communication so that walks are enjoyable again.

2) Sign Your Dog Has Lost It Every Time They See Another Dog

Is your dog losing control whenever they see another dog? Barking, lunging, running towards or away from other dogs during a walk makes walking your dog in the neighborhood a stress-inducing experience. This reactivity typically worsens as time goes on, not improves.

At Equilibrium Canine, we have developed a Behavior Modification Program that addresses the reactivity of your dog. In many cases, we identify the trigger for your dog and create a customized solution to reduce the reactivity. Depending on the case, some require private sessions while others require a board and train. Each dog is assessed individually, as cookie-cutter solutions do not work for behavioral problems.

3) Your Dog Is Unable to Remain Calm At Home or in Public

If your dog cannot remain calm at home, if they continually pace, jump on visitors, or go wild at outdoor cafes, then your dog has not been trained to remain calm. Being unable to remain calm is not a characteristic of your dog; it is a training issue.

All of the programs at Equilibrium Canine include Place Training and Calm Conditioning. Through our board and train or private Day Train, we provide your dog with training to help them remain calm in various locations. If your dog remains calm at home, they will remain calm in all areas of life.

4) Your Dog Does Not Respond to Commands, or Your Dog Will Not Come When Called

Are you unable to get your dog to come to you when called? Does your dog only respond to you when you offer them treats? Are you unable to rely on your dog off-leash? Do you find yourself blowing off basic commands? Then you have an obedience problem.

At Equilibrium Canine, we have Basic Obedience Programs and Advanced Obedience Programs, which build reliability. Basic Obedience teaches on-lead work and house manners. Advanced Obedience teaches off-leash reliability with distractions using an e-collar. Your dog will learn to respond to you regardless of the presence of squirrels, other dogs, etc.

5) Anxiety, Aggression Toward People or Dogs, Fear of Noise, Destruction When Left Alone

You are experiencing anxiety, aggression toward people or dogs, a fear of noise, or destruction when you leave your dog alone. These problems will continue to worsen over time; they will not improve.

Based upon the severity of the problem, we may recommend either private sessions or our Board and Train Program. Having your dog live with Nick and the Pack for 4-6 weeks provides a structured environment where your dog can learn new behaviors. After your dog returns home, you will receive ongoing support.

Why Waiting Only Makes the Problem Worse

The longer a bad habit exists, the stronger it becomes. A puppy that pulls on a leash will grow up to pull on a leash and eventually dislocate your shoulder. Mild reactivity will develop into extreme aggression. The longer you wait, the longer it takes to correct, and the more entrenched the behavior will become.

Want to Fix the Problem Now?

If you recognize any of the above signs in your dog, it is time to consult a professional trainer. Contact Equilibrium Canine today to schedule a consultation. We will assess your dog's individual needs and recommend the most suitable program. Do not wait until the problem becomes worse – let us start fixing it now.