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Dog Training

***Please bring small sized high-value treats to every class. 

Meet our Trainers

Chris

Kelli

Lori Jo

Maureen

Michelle

To Register: Contact the shelter at 262-677-4388 and ask to speak with Faith

 

**Note:  All classes require current vaccinations, if the animal is of age, including Rabies, Distemper, & Bordetella**

Our Dog Training Philosophy

It is the goal of the Washington County Humane Society to provide training programs
resulting in happy, confident dogs as well as guardians who know how to work with their dog. We
believe in building relationships with our dogs through skill building, compassion and education.
We further believe it is important to provide training classes in a positive environment to enable
dogs to feel safe. Dogs experiencing behavior concerns may be referred to a behavior specialist.
Guidelines:
The techniques used in the WCHS training program will follow the Least Invasive, Minimally Aversive
(LIMA) principle.
• Are dedicated to the use of science based training methods, utilizing the least aversive
techniques possible.
• Are committed to using positive reinforcement as a teaching tool and negative punishment
as complementary management
• Adhere to the Humane Hierarchy https://m.iaabc.org/about/lima/hierarchy/, as outlined
by Dr. Susan Friedman.
• Adhere to The Five Freedoms of The Farm Animal Welfare Council. https://
www.canr.msu.edu/news/an_animal_welfare_history_lesson_on_the_five_freedoms
• Do not use or condone ideologies, methods or gear that impart physical or psychological
punishment or pain on animals.
• Pursue and impart knowledge, maintain competence in animal behavior through
continuing education, active training and applied experience.
Aversive training methods are based on making a dog feel something unpleasant or painful because
they have done something “wrong.” Aversives can be anything that a dog finds displeasing. Aversives
inhibit learning and inhibits the formation of trust between the dog and owner. What is aversive to a
dog is highly individualized, and can have a lasting effect beyond the change of behavior. These side
effects can manifest as avoidance, fear, or aggression, and can teach a dog to be fearful or anxious
about people or situations.
Positive Reinforcers (Rewards) and Motivators:
The use of positive reinforcers and motivators are not only acceptable but strongly encouraged in
WCHS training classes.
Positive motivators encourage a dog to perform a desired behavior. Also, positive reinforcers
strengthen the behavior by offering a meaningful reward that a dog will modify his behavior to obtain.
The motivator must be appealing enough to make a dog work for it. These motivators help build a
relationship of trust, affection and positive association. Even if used incorrectly, positive reinforcers
and motivators create very little risk of a lasting negative impact on the dog, the relationship or the
learning process.
Examples of Positive Reinforcers and Motivators:
• Voice – verbal praise
• Physical Affection
• Food/treats
• Markers such as whistles, clickers or verbal (i.e. “Yes!”)
• Life Rewards (i.e. Sit at the door = opportunity to go outside)
• Play (i.e. Sit = ball will be thrown)
Training Equipment:
The best training tools enhance the ability to communicate with a dog while building a bond of trust
and affection.
WCHS does not support the use of choke collars, shock collars or prong collars.
Body Harnesses are encouraged to reduce stress on a dog’s neck and spine.
Continuing Education:
WCHS believes that it is important to keep up with current dog training trends and new techniques
used in the training field.
Class Sizes:
• Classes will be limited to no more than 6 dogs per instructor. If an assistant is available, a
maximum of 10 dogs will be allowed.
We recognize that the pet’s owner is responsible for their pet and the owner has the right to make
decisions about the professional treatment of their pet.