By Alicia Harantshuck, CPDT-KA, IAABC-ADT, CTDI, CCFC
Living in a virtual world is no longer just for Hollywood blockbusters. For most of us, it is a reality. This also applies to training your dog. Wait, what? Yes, training your dog virtually is a real possibility with real results but is it a full circle solution?
Virtual training can be particularly helpful for reactive, fearful, or newly adopted dogs. Training from the comfort of your own home can allow you to get a jump start on some of the basics prior to working in person around other dogs and humans. When it comes to socialization, greetings and behavioral modifications, virtual training might only be one of many ingredients in your solution recipe.
TRAINER TIP: For this trainer, life duties seem to get in the way of keeping my dogs “in shape”. Virtual lessons (even those with content we know) are a great way to help me focus, spend time with my dogs and it’s fun for them. The hour-long guided tour of working my dog means I don’t have to think about what I am going to work on. We just login and go!
What should you consider when attending virtual classes, whether live or self-directed, for best results?
Choosing a service provider is the most important first step. You’ll want to make sure instructors are educated, possibly certified, practice appropriate training techniques that are not harmful to your dog, and offer virtual private lessons with the same instructor for seamless training plans. They should also have a way for you to connect with them to ask questions specific to your training needs when viewing prerecorded lessons.
Selecting a class is another consideration. Be sure to read the description and see if your dog meets the prerequisites (if any are listed). Jumping into a class that is too advanced can leave you feeling lost. If you find yourself lost in a class, don’t let yourself get frustrated. Try making the exercise easier, allowing you and your dog to be successful. Virtual classes should be fun for you and your dog!
Check your technology ten minutes prior to your start time. Whether you are connecting via your phone or streaming to your TV, check to make sure you have the appropriate apps loaded/set up, ensure your connections are working, and turn off notifications. Eliminating connecting frustrations means your training time starts off on the right paw.
Prep your space for working with your dog. Adjust ottomans and coffee tables to make sure you have room to maneuver. You might need space for loose leash walking or maybe distance stays. If you are truly mobile, hallways are a great place to practice. If it is a live class, make sure your camera is set so the instructor and see you and your dog enabling them to provide meaningful feedback.
Turn up the dial on your creativity when working around your home. If you learned a stay in class, see if you can do it in five places around the house. Note, stays on steps makes a great challenge. Maybe home agility was part of your tricks class. Use brooms, cans and chairs to make agility obstacles. Depending on the size of your dog, cutting out the bottom on a laundry basket can make a great tunnel. If this inspires a fun social media post, be sure to tag #phillyunleashed and #ulurutraining.
If you are looking for a virtual training solution, check out Uluru Dog Training. Uluru is the virtual version of Philly Unleashed with the great trainers you’ve come to know and love. Spoiler alert, new trainers and content will be available on a regular basis. Why not give it a try!
As always, it is important to know and read your dog during training sessions. Know if they are having fun and do more. If they are nervous or scared, slow it down and make it easier for them. Allowing them to make the choice to advance learning at their own pace without being forced means they will want to continue because they trust you.
