tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82841163379147727492012-02-13T09:19:35.764-08:00A "How To" blog for and with Vancouver Islanders who are training their own assistance and service dogs. (Using text, photos and videos)VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.comBlogger911100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-82934063996450277662012-02-06T16:52:00.000-08:002012-02-06T16:52:33.576-08:00

Here is a letter I recently received updating me on the process! Sometimes one piece of information is all that is missing. Congratulations to Carla & Banjo! I have included a link to her in case other's need this information. "Hello Donna, Back in September, you E-mailed me with information about how to certify owner-trained service dogs. I e-mailed both places. Helping Paws got in touch with

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-57530921913657915002012-01-19T13:41:00.000-08:002012-02-09T16:33:25.524-08:00

Training a dog to do anaphylactic alerts takes a very high degree of training since it involves the life and death of the handler and inherently involves risks for the trainer if that person has allergies. VIAD accepts no liability or responsibility for these risks should you decide to train your own dog. This content is provided for interest only so people understand the possible process of

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-13555367227769991902012-01-11T00:39:00.000-08:002012-01-11T00:40:01.742-08:00

More people today are considering assistance dogs for their autistic children and teens but may never had a dog before, or maybe their last dog was when they were young. This book offers a realistic portrayal of what is involved in living with dogs and kids. It's not detailed but provides an overall introduction to help you create questions about if you can really cope with adding another (canine

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-6083742297214318142012-01-06T18:09:00.000-08:002012-01-06T18:09:40.316-08:00

This may not be occurring on Vancouver island or anywhere in BC, but it IS interesting that a service dog is considered a valuable care giver in other places in the world and are actually paid. The fee covered food and toys for the dog and saves the health system upto 29,000 pounds a year for a human caregiver.

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-34328583059221121582012-01-03T17:59:00.000-08:002012-01-05T18:01:57.467-08:00

This is a great time to continue working on generalizing basic behaviours for service dogs. Another organization, Vancouver Island Animal Training Association (VIATA) is hosting a 'Sit Challenge" and offers prizes for residents of Vancouver Island. Join now and practice your sits! This will help your assistance dog be truly understand what the cue 'sit' means and able to do them anywhere,

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-6241033282249359312011-12-15T17:23:00.000-08:002012-01-05T17:27:27.048-08:00

Congratulations to Ina and Ranger who recently successfully completed the service dog certification process in British Columbia! Raising Ranger from a puppy, it was almost two long years of hard work. Go Team!

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-33796744955959704972011-12-08T12:50:00.000-08:002011-12-08T12:50:41.381-08:00

We've just updated and added to the original CD so it is available as a DVD. Total of 90 minutes of step by step training foundation behaviours. We've added more footage and bonus features. Plays on any computer or DVD player! Here's a preview: See blog post 24 to order your copy.

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-7274742027416113592011-12-01T11:13:00.000-08:002011-12-13T11:14:48.496-08:00

Here is a link to the proposal for the updated Guide Dog Act (legislation). If the proposal is accepted, 'the Act' will now formally include specific kinds of assistance dogs, some types of therapy dogs (for Residential Tenancy Act-renters would be able to have a certified therapy dog) and retired guide dogs (as well as traditional guide dogs). Yay! What it does not mention (so far) are

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-51387875449638053682011-11-25T10:33:00.000-08:002011-12-14T10:36:56.443-08:00

Spay or Not and At What Age?You'll hear many things about whether or not and what age to alter a dog. You need to do your research before you decide what is appropriate for you, your dog and your situation. This is an especially important consideration for service dogs since certification depends the behavioral and physical abilities of the dog. Spaying and neutering too

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-34655010282871727672011-11-24T23:32:00.000-08:002011-11-24T23:35:20.510-08:00

Start children right from the beginning training their own service pups. They learn to respect puppies and their needs and an alternative way to live and learn!  Of course children need supervision, especially for the proofing stages, but what better way to create a bond than have the kids involved in the training? Check out this video of puppies 7 weeks to 5 months learning basic behaviours

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-37605015923385221262011-09-17T17:41:00.000-07:002011-09-17T17:42:03.767-07:00

Specific Basic Skills Dog needs: -allowing self to be patted down by security staff which may include use of the wand. (Alternatively, taking off all harnesses etc that may contain metal and pass through the metal detector on her own) -pee and potty promptly on cue (ideally on a variety of surfaces) -curl up in tight spaces for long periods of time (start shaping the dog to go into a box then

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-8889195360158611712011-04-24T08:24:00.000-07:002011-06-16T09:03:09.122-07:00

Many more questions about choosing and raising a service dog puppy have been asked recently. Stanley Coren has written three chapters dedicated to how you can create a superdog. Not specific to assistance dogs, but it is a very useful guide of things to consider and even included a schedule by life stage of what needs to be done. Very helpful guide if you are choosing and raising your own

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-3251324423229597082011-04-14T22:33:00.000-07:002011-08-18T17:30:30.966-07:00

May 1, 2011 in NANAIMO Hosted by: Dog Friendly Nanaimo Location: Bowen Park (picnic area off of Wall Street) Contact: Toni, Michelle, Carla Email: dogfriendlynanaimo@gmail.com May 14, 2011 in MILL BAY Hosted by: Tyee Kennel Club Location: Kerry Park Arena Contact: Cherie Holmes (250) 749-7778 Email: holmrun@shaw.ca May 15, 2011 in VICTORIA Hosted by: Citizen Canine Dog Owners Association Event

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-76704613475064945062011-02-09T22:18:00.000-08:002011-02-20T17:52:03.297-08:00

Get training help for your service dog no matter where you are in the world! I am now offering 30 minute private training sessions via webcam for anyone who wants specific help with training their assistance dog. There is a cost for those who do not live on Vancouver Island. All you need is a webcam with built-in mic (costs about CAN$40-60) and highspeed internet. Then you download a free

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-90856132176686939882010-12-26T17:15:00.000-08:002011-01-07T16:15:00.212-08:00

We are now able to offer services via webcam to all of Vancouver Island clients to help in training their assistance dogs. This can be done at home, no matter where you are on VI! If you have- *a webcam with built in mic on your computer *already have or can create a Skype http://www.skype.com/ or TokBox www.tokbox.com/ account (This is very easy.) *can figure out how to download the required

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-58687325828401061892009-01-24T13:15:00.000-08:002011-04-14T22:41:50.987-07:00

We recently received this question! Thought we would post the answer in case it was useful to anyone else. "I cannot train using treats, and I cannot find any information on using other rewards with clicker training, specifically with loading the clicker. I do plan on using praise as the reward since my boy responds well to that. Any in site (sic) you could provide would be most appreciated."

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-90088434006638796132009-01-24T13:10:00.000-08:002011-04-14T22:39:20.366-07:00

Here is an interview with Debi Davis, a long time dog trainer who has used the clicker to train her own service dogs (and many other animals). http://www.clickersolutions.com/interviews/davis.htm

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-11072853045871606962009-01-24T13:00:00.000-08:002011-04-14T22:38:18.215-07:00

I recently added a new canine member to my family who is 21 mos. While she appears to be a gentle soul, she has never been taught to be gentle with her teeth (called bite inhibition or control), especially when she is highly aroused around toys and desirable food. It was a fairly quick process to teach her how to handle her mouth, but then she's very responsive and wants to please. I think in

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-76258721306477506542009-01-24T12:45:00.001-08:002010-07-18T08:23:20.388-07:00

One topic rarely discussed among Assistance Dog Handlers is the level of stress that a dog (and person) lives with. Chronic stress in dogs, as in humans, leads to health problems and can trigger problem behaviors and even cause the need to retire your dog early.Examine the Big Picture:Your Home & Work Environments, Exercise and FoodHome EnvironmentIt is important that dog guardians carefully

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-91418795635847868402009-01-24T12:45:00.000-08:002010-07-18T08:18:31.311-07:00

Generalizing a behavior is a very important skill for every owner-trained assistance dog, and in dog training generally. Yet, it's not often discussed!It is also a characteristic that humans are usually quite good at and most dogs do not do easily. This often creates mis-understandings and disharmony in the human-dog team. The human believes the dog "should" be able to do the behavior as he

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-38129562931046704282009-01-24T12:40:00.000-08:002010-07-18T08:23:44.677-07:00

"Click here to watch the 55 min program.

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-87019311243327730892009-01-24T12:38:00.000-08:002010-07-18T08:17:49.345-07:00

We have had several questions about the best leashes to use with wheelchairs so here is our response!

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-79596903213596364112009-01-24T12:37:00.000-08:002010-07-18T08:17:08.291-07:00

Tips for a Service Dog Owner"As a power wheelchair user, I’d like to add some things (to your videos) that might be helpful, especially to people who are raising and training their own servicedogs from puppyhood.Personally, I can’t imagine trying to train and use adog that was afraid of the chair. One of the things we tested for and paida lot of attention to was a puppy’s ability to recognize and

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-45796595816888451472009-01-24T12:36:00.000-08:002010-07-18T08:16:34.773-07:00

List of Tasks for WheelchairIt is usually easiest to teach the following tasks with the handler either sitting on the ground or in a chair first, then train sitting on the wheelchair. Experiment to see what works for you and your dog.*Nudge fallen arm or foot back on chair*Retrieve dropped item to hand*Step up to deliver object to lap*Delivering and retrieving objects to store counter/clerk*

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-82498361857561554982009-01-24T12:26:00.000-08:002010-07-18T08:15:34.470-07:00

Preparation for Training:There are several basic skills that are need for an assistance dog that helps the handler when in a wheelchair.All begin with foundation behaviors of*nose targeting*loose leash walking and*30 seconds of eye contactSee Sue Ailsby’s Training Levels for details on how to train these behaviors.Desensitizing your dog to the sight, sound and proximity of bicycles, scooters,

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-38608925718480459232009-01-24T12:25:00.000-08:002011-02-10T09:59:03.864-08:00

We now have a Dog Training Audio CD available for purchase for CDN $10 plus shipping (or arrange pick-up). It is also available at Central Drugs at Northfield and Bowen Rd. in Nanaimo. Ask at the front cash desk. Entitled: You Don't Have to be a Dog Whisperer: Applying the Principles of No Force Dog Training to the Family Dog Copyright 2007 Donna Hill Back Cover: Want your dog to willingly

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-83247709867233714192009-01-24T12:15:00.000-08:002010-07-18T08:22:05.618-07:00

The following is a letter we received from a person who emailed us asking for help. It is a glowing report that owner-trained dogs (using positive methods) can be every bit as useful as a program dogs, even if the handler doesn't know how to train when they start!Dear VIAD,"It's almost been 3 mos since I asked you about helping train my chihuahua, Clarice, to scent my blood sugars. Again, I

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-41731456951897010362009-01-24T12:14:00.001-08:002010-12-06T13:11:09.816-08:00

Question: "I'm wanting to train my dog as a diabetic alert dog being that I'm insulin dependent. My question to you is what training tools do you use to teach the dog how to detect low blood sugar & high blood sugar (sensing)? I've asked numerous trainers on youtube this question, but no one has responded. My dog already does the targeting exercise with flying colors thanks to you and your video.

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-50956750404921261232009-01-24T12:12:00.001-08:002009-06-16T21:25:40.036-07:00

Your dog can be taught to alert to many different sounds using the same alert behavior. Start from the beginning with each new sound, pairing the sound with the desired behavior. Then train your way through the process.The more sounds you train for (each trained separately until the behavior is complete) the faster your dog will generalize the behavior to that sound. For example, when I started

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-85786555917697500022009-01-24T12:12:00.000-08:002010-07-24T13:53:48.514-07:00

This alert teaches the dog to let you know there is a specific sound and to take you to the source of the sound. The order that the dog does (whether alert you first or alert the location of sound first) is up to the task, your preference or even your dog's natural tendancy as long as the order is consistent for that sound so you know what to expect. You may have to adapt the order of the

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-86061943709296241892009-01-24T12:11:00.000-08:002009-06-16T21:24:38.709-07:00

One way alerts include any time the dog needs to get your attention, but you do not want her to take you to the source of the sound. For example, for a smoke detector or fire alarm just telling you that they are going off is enough. You do nto want to be led back into a fire to learn it is the smoke detector going off. It is helpful to train a separate alert behavior for safety issues so you will

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-90806081471236822352009-01-24T12:10:00.000-08:002009-06-16T21:23:29.161-07:00

One and Two Way Alerts can be used to train assistance dogs for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, diabetics (high or low blood sugar levels) and to alert a Alzheimer caregiver of movement by their patient. All these are taught using the same basic process.It is very important before and during the training process to avoid saying “no” or otherwise discourage an alerting behavior in any

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-63819410728260188052009-01-24T12:09:00.000-08:002009-06-16T21:22:50.231-07:00

Canine Good Neighbor Tests are a good way to find out if your dog has the basic skills to be a good member of society and can move on towards certification. it also also helps when applying for certification for your assistance dog in BC.Here is a list of local tests: Mill BayApr 19, 2009Host: Tyee Kennel ClubLocation: Kerry Park Recreation CentreContact; Mariah Dupuy (250) 743-0882Victoria,

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-3731649515144280172009-01-24T12:04:00.000-08:002009-06-16T21:22:03.671-07:00

If you have ever seen the show "Sue Thomas FB Eye" about a deaf woman and her hearing dog, here are two sites you will want to see!The first is a video about the real Sue Thomas. (Too bad it's not closed captioned.)The second is about the actress Deanne Bray who plays Sue on the TV show. You'll be interested to note that the real Sue shows up at least twice in the TV show , playing a character

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-64128090251160693412009-01-24T11:54:00.000-08:002009-04-25T23:17:28.963-07:00

A. The WalkThere are two aspects to this behavior: 1. having a person walk by the dog and 2. walking the dog by a person. Work through both.Practice on several other people individually, increase level of difficulty (may be from friends to strangers or the reverse depending on the dog’s level of sociability.)1. Start by walking by one familiar person at a distance, decreasing distance at each

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-64183354053007842902009-01-24T11:48:00.000-08:002009-04-25T23:16:23.883-07:00

Choose a location where the subject animal(s) are behind a fence, in a crate or cage, tethered on a long line, on a leash being handled by another trusted person, or otherwise safely confined. This is for your safety, your dog’s safety and the animal’s safety.A. One AnimalStart with single calm animal at a distance if at all possible. C/t for any looking or sniffing in that direction while

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-35324013824617647692009-01-24T00:44:00.000-08:002009-04-25T23:15:51.868-07:00

(For the purpioses of this blog post, an object could be a ball, baloon, bicycle, skateboard, shopping cart, car, vacuum cleaner, riding lawn mower, garbage truck etc.)For safety and the confidence of you dog, always stay with your dog, within leash length. Never leave your dog unattended (especially if leashed) when a human-operated object is in the area (with or without the human presence).

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-59034842311413033072009-01-24T00:40:00.000-08:002009-04-25T23:17:06.055-07:00

Be FlexibleRemember that despite your best planning, no plan will occur exactly as it is laid out on paper. You, you dog and the distraction or environment will demand that changes be made on the fly. Below are training plans (think of them as frameworks if it helps you be flexible) to get you started. Please adapt or modify them for your own dog’s needs. They can be used for basic beginning

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-15936812538430242132009-01-24T00:39:00.000-08:002009-04-25T23:14:40.783-07:00

Tiny puppies, rescue dogs and even the most focused and well-trained dogs have things that distract their attention from their job of focusing on you. So how do you add distractions to your dog’s training program while helping her to be successful?The most effective trainers use a slow carefully thought out 4 step process.1.Desensitize your dog to the triggers,2. Counter condition her to them (

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-67634203841232938942009-01-24T00:16:00.000-08:002009-04-25T23:11:41.280-07:00

Leslie McDevitt has put together a comprehensive 7-10 week training program to help you teach your dog how to relax, focus on you and the task while in exciting and stressful environments. Always working under your dog’s threshold and using counter conditioning and desensitization, this program is a Godsend for anyone with a dog that has any over the top reaction (positive or negative) to any

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-16612068067854040402009-01-24T00:05:00.000-08:002009-05-05T14:46:32.160-07:00

An alternative to commercially prepared treats (perhaps since you know what ingredients go into them and because homemade ones are often much cheaper as well as better quality), is to make your own. Here are some suggestions. If you want to add nutrition, dust meat bits with debittered Brewers Yeast and kelp powder. Soaked millet, rolled oats and cooked barley are good substitutes for other treat

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-3259902932697020712009-01-23T17:05:00.000-08:002009-04-25T23:13:41.404-07:00

Giving your dog a massage has many benefits. It is easy to do and you don’t need any special knowledge.The benefits of massages are that they can help with bonding, is great for a dog’s physical health as it promotes circulation and toxin removal, comforting for older dogs, helps you detect injuries (since you have your hands on your dog on a regular basis), can increase flexibility and healing

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-45412988881475145092009-01-23T16:43:00.000-08:002009-06-11T00:27:18.355-07:00

A fairly common complaint among assistance dog owners who have family involved with the dog, is that the dog prefers the company of one or more other family members. This may occur for several reasons. The family members may be more ‘fun’ than you-that is they play fun games with the dog and ask less of them behavior-wise. The dog may have a natural preference for a specific sex or type of

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-23680457345163402402009-01-23T15:43:00.000-08:002009-03-19T13:33:07.230-07:00

Hopefully, two of your criteria for choosing your assistance dog was that he would be physically and mentally capable of doing any task that you would require of him. As the trainer as well as owner/handler of a service dog, you will also need to consider WHEN he will be physically and mentally ready for some of the tasks and what impact they may have on him.Physical Needs of Service DogsA dog

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-61356668462521684922009-01-23T14:48:00.000-08:002009-03-19T13:32:39.934-07:00

Here is a list of behaviors that can be observed from the previous videos.You may seen more than this!1. Grinning DogLaying downHead dipEars flattenFront legs shiftedTail wagStraightens bodySmileFold left leg underLooks at ground (or shoes?)Licking lipsShakes headStands upShakes bodyLooks at owner (with eye contact)Licks lipsBowsSmilesShakes bodyBlows his cheeks outDips his headSmilesBriefly

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-33040495698405100832009-01-23T14:27:00.000-08:002009-03-19T13:32:14.847-07:00

Observation skills are critical to developing good clicker skills. You can easily improve your powers of observation by taking the time to watch your dog, or someone else’s. Go to a dog park and watch dogs interact or sit on a park bench for a break with your dog and watch other dogs as they walk by on leash with their owners.Practice Without Your DogTake a break during a walk to sit where you

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-87255619327687609622009-01-23T10:21:00.000-08:002009-03-19T13:31:50.782-07:00

This blog was in response to someone who was brand new to clicker training and needed to understand the basics to get started. Thank you Ashley for the question!Once your dog understands that click equals treat (just take 30 treats and one by one click and give him one treat as quickly as you can afterward. When he turns his head toward you after hearing the click, you know he understands that it

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-6048893002867960342009-01-22T15:15:00.000-08:002009-02-16T09:22:40.781-08:00

While shaping is usually used to teach a new behavior to a dog, it can also be used to fine tune a behavior or even reshape an old one or parts of a known one. Shaping can be applied to large behavior changes or fine tuning behaviors. Think of shaping a behavior as a process of revision. Rewriting a book is shaping that book into a different form to a higher degree of detail. For dogs it might be

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-39229603411192202382009-01-22T14:55:00.000-08:002009-02-16T09:22:13.072-08:00

Free ShapingFree shaping allows the dog to offer behaviors, no matter how small, toward a final behavior. The trainer captures them by clicking and treating at the exact moment the behavior occurs. There is no luring and no cuing. It is a silent process with only the clicker and treats doing the talking.It sometimes helps the human part of the partnership to use a visual marker to measure

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-80426845996259631832009-01-22T13:09:00.000-08:002009-02-16T09:21:44.350-08:00

There are two ways to shape: Object-based Shaping & Free shaping.The easiest way to learn shaping is to start with Object-based Shaping. Both you and your dog gain experience with the shaping process, your dog learns how to offer behaviors and you learn timing skills, how to maintain a high rate of reinforcement (critical to successful shaping) and improve your observation skills and judgment of

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-70846337917438455592009-01-22T13:05:00.000-08:002009-02-16T09:21:23.370-08:00

In its broadest sense, shaping occurs anytime we modify a behavior from one form into another using small steps. Changing a child’s yelling behavior in the house to talking quietly. Shaping your teenager from leaving clothes on the floor to placing it in the laundry basket. Realisitically, you don't expect the changes to happen becasue you said so, but they will happen in small increments of

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-4076195615147337112009-01-21T14:36:00.000-08:002009-02-15T11:44:51.899-08:00

PlanningSetting monthly goals and planning your training sessions will help you get 'there' in a step by step fashion. You can set weekly objectives too.1. Create a checklist of tasks/behaviors you want to teach/are teaching and what learning stage you want to work on, where, what aspect of them you will work on. Be realistic. Once you get to know the speed that your dog learns at for a few tasks

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-28193393698343065532009-01-21T12:11:00.000-08:002009-02-15T11:44:28.769-08:00

Being a good dog trainer is about helping your dog be successful. If you understand the stages that a dog goes through when learning a new behavior or task, it will help you understand where your dog is currently at. This in turn will help you to identify what else you need to do to help your dog be successful.The Four stages as identified by Melissa Alexander, a respected clicker dog trainer are

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-4214510211460981132009-01-20T13:35:00.000-08:002011-11-14T18:39:13.669-08:00

Some dogs dislike the taste or texture of metal objects and it can be a challenge to train them to pick them up or hold them. Here are some ideas to get dogs more comfortable in retrieving or carrying them. *Start with lightweight metal things. Heavy ones grate on the teeth more. *Then move to heavier, or larger objects. *Layer a couple of thicknesses of masking tape, or vet wrap if the dog

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-35361191321604806692009-01-20T11:34:00.000-08:002009-02-15T11:42:45.627-08:00

As you are training your dog, start collecting objects for him to retrieve and store them in a bin or box. Put all of these objects out of reach between training sessions, including the slippers, shoes as your dog may carry them off and chew on them once he starts interacting with them. Once the retrieve behavior is under stimulus control he should ignore them unless otherwise directed. There is

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-23208190415401285072009-01-20T10:42:00.000-08:002009-08-14T13:33:40.465-07:00

3. Directional InstructionsBecause we can't possibly teach our dog the name of everything they need to retrieve for us, it is useful to train them to move away from you and turn in a specific direction. Verbal cues or hand signals can be used.The following description was provided by Sue Ailsby, who also provides us with the excellent Training Levels program in blog post 15 and taken from a Yahoo

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-35058535080698345012009-01-20T10:41:00.000-08:002009-10-20T22:51:18.117-07:00

2. Naming Objects to be RetrievedTeaching your dog to learn objects you use on a regular basis (tv remote, cell phone, leash, shoes, purse, gloves etc) is very useful and will save time once your dog catches on how to do it. The first few objects take a long time, but once he understands the concept of a name, the process progresses more quickly.Some dogs are more oriented to learn hand signals

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-4957052301031506252009-01-20T10:40:00.000-08:002009-08-14T13:34:07.643-07:00

This question comes up quite abit for people with mobility challenges. Obviously, you dog must have a solid retrieve first before you can proceed to work on any of these methods. Check out Blog number 26 for retrieval instructions.There are at least three ways to teach your dog to retrieve objects from a distance.The first is to simply indicate the object with either an extendable pointer (such

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-20140348274149695672009-01-20T10:39:00.000-08:002009-12-06T21:00:05.764-08:00

The retrieve is a very useful foundation skill for dogs. The formal retrieve is teachable to almost any dog using the clicker, even if she is not a natural retriever because it is taught with small steps using shaping.The retrieve is used when the dog goes and gets objects that you point out, or picking up objects you drop. Or when she brings back a piece of clothing she has helped you to take

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-68769297398499732122009-01-19T18:53:00.000-08:002009-02-10T18:28:57.801-08:00

We are wondering if there is any interest for an informal group to meet say monthly to discuss training Service Dogs and Assistance Dogs issues? Share ideas and experience, tips and challenges, resources we have found in the community, host training DVD/video nights etc.If you have any interest, please contact us and we can set something up. Even if there are only a few people, we'd be happy to

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-34970891397974497922009-01-19T10:10:00.000-08:002012-02-02T22:09:00.877-08:00

We have had several requests to make our step by step youtube training videos available for purchase on DVD. This DVD is now available. If you are in the Nanaimo area, you can purchase the CD at Central Drugs on North Field Rd, otherwise you can order via Paypal below. Videos have been updated to include extra useful training tips, 3 Habits of Effective Clicker trainers and are all accessible to

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-31507061967661005932009-01-18T11:13:00.000-08:002009-02-10T18:27:41.196-08:00

Today while visiting a shop, I happened to mention to the proprietor that I help people to train their own service dogs. She told me that her dog is a self-trained diabetic alert dog.This woman works alone and her store is often very quiet. Occassionally her blood sugars drop (she has type 1 diabetes, diabetes mellitis) and she starts getting groggy at the counter. Her dog noses her arm to shake

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-91905023496088367632009-01-18T10:39:00.000-08:002010-03-23T12:33:21.150-07:00

Most dogs are better at hand and body signals that they are verbal cues. We recommend teaching hand signals before verbal ones as the dogs seem to learn them faster. Ensure that every hand signal is unique and clear so that your dog can see it even from a distance.In operant conditioning, verbal behavioral cues are not added until after the dog understands the finished behavior. In the ‘Flip the

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-67961720431495488602009-01-17T18:27:00.000-08:002009-02-28T19:40:50.165-08:00

Method 2 Another way to train pulling on clothing needs your dog to have experience with targeting, take, hold, and forward (taking a few steps towards you) while holding an object. It is best used if your dog already knows the retrieve as this method is really a combination of a hold and retrieve. You can then use these cues to help explain what you want. (Check out our blog for details on

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-8150965773348593312009-01-17T16:31:00.000-08:002009-02-28T19:40:28.063-08:00

As a result of our recent video on how to tug off clothing, we had a follow-up question from Robin: “How do you teach the dog to put ON socks?”It's a lot more tricky than pulling off but can be done using targeting, tugging, shaping, and chaining. If you have limited hand dexterity, you will need a helper until your dog learns what to do. Your are training your dog to use his mouth as your hand/

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-66790805589785126632009-01-17T11:49:00.000-08:002009-02-27T10:44:42.662-08:00

Removing Socks, Gloves and Other ClothingMake the object easier to take by pulling it off your body. Allow your dog to experiment to find out where you are under that material. Use a yelp if she makes tooth contact to show her that you are under there! To avoid potential injury, (especially if you have circulation issues with extremities or have a hard-mouthed dog), place the clothing on a dummy

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-63127482653480974942009-01-17T10:33:00.000-08:002009-02-10T18:26:31.609-08:00

Now she is ready to start the task training. Tie a soft rope onto the object you want her to pull. For a rope, I often use fleece or cotton tug toys made for dogs so the dog knows it’s okay for him/her to grab it. See the Free Tug & Chew Toys for Dogs' video. Later you can transition to thinner ropes or even use his leash looped over the handle that are more portable and easily detachable for use

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-7468172030172772352009-01-17T10:18:00.000-08:002009-02-10T18:26:13.809-08:00

The tugging action is a useful basis for many assistance dogs tasks such as:*opening cupboard doors by handles*pulling off socks and gloves and other clothing*opening oven doors*tugging laundry basket*pulling laundry out of dryer*opening lower drawers*pulling pans out of the lower cupboards*bring a wheelchair*making the bed*pulling blankets up over you etc.Despite rumors to the contrary, teaching

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-32124128293298955082009-01-16T12:06:00.000-08:002009-01-20T21:24:53.639-08:00

Once you have several tasks shaped, you will want to look at teaching your dog more complex tasks, that incorporate the shaped behaviors into chains or sequences. These two ways sound similar but they are quite different ways of training.Chaining, is about putting together several behaviors that always occur in the same order and ultimately become one behavior cued with a single cue. Each

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-35520778056963547532009-01-16T10:02:00.000-08:002009-02-10T18:25:46.353-08:00

Here is an entry from one of our trainers."I have always felt uncomfortable when I was photographed or videotaped. This is interesting, since I have no problem standing in front of a crowd and giving a presentation. Recently, in an effort to make more the concepts of clicker training more ccepssible to you, I embarked on a new journey of videotaping myself.Several people have asked to see a dog

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-84151686013475508172009-01-12T17:40:00.000-08:002009-01-15T17:45:22.608-08:00

I think the following video will be inspirational for you.I am not sure if this dog is a service dog, but, if not, she should be!Enjoy!

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-7518380840866638492009-01-12T10:14:00.000-08:002011-05-01T17:31:30.609-07:00

Are you still working on basic behaviors with your dog? Do you want to improve some of the foundation skills to strengthen them for assistance dog tasks? Do we have the program for you! The following program, called Sue Ailsby's Training levels Program, is free and available on-line. You can read it off your computer as you follow it, or print off a paper copy to follow and make notes on. The

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-46759561580872349302009-01-12T10:00:00.000-08:002009-03-23T13:47:44.267-07:00

Available for borrowing in the Nanaimo area.DVD’sTesting the Training Levels (Sue Ailsby) DVDThe How of Bow Wow Foundation Skills for all Dogs Building, Proofing, and Polishing Behaviors DVDTake a Bow Wow! & Take a Bow Wow 2 Two trick Training Videos DVDThe Shape of Bow Wow Shaping Behaviors and Adding Cues DVDClicker Train Your Own Service by Dog Barbara Handleman4 DVD’s-1. Basic Targeting and

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-57501354240521623482009-01-08T12:28:00.000-08:002009-01-12T10:09:06.922-08:00

Why do dogs make such good assistance and service animals?This video may explain why. Enjoy!Any comments?Looking at dog intelligence from another angle, here is an on-line quiz you can try with your dog to find out how smart s/he is! Remember we have to look at what each task actually tests to find out how good of an indicator it may be for our dog. We have included the test here as it offers

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-45519111855931435012009-01-08T11:47:00.000-08:002009-01-12T10:08:47.234-08:00

One of the best things you can do for your service dogs is play games with him/her regularly. By offering a variety of mind, tug, retrieve and chew games and toys, you not only are reinforcing foundation behaviors that you use everyday, but you are making your dog more intelligent by exposing him to different challenges.In an earlier blog, I talked about shaping and targeting. The more different

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-30893025588036414222009-01-06T12:45:00.000-08:002009-01-12T10:17:23.654-08:00

Targeting with Other Parts of His BodyYou can also teach your dog to target different parts of his body. His nose and paw are obvious ones, but his back paws, a chin, his shoulders or any part of his body are possible. It might make your job easier to cut his nails, have him wipe his feet, dry off hard-to-reach parts of his body or other uses you can think of. Here is a link to a page that shows

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-48424614473030476042009-01-06T12:25:00.000-08:002009-01-12T10:16:42.037-08:00

Here are some other types of targeting.Upright Stick Target on the floor (perhaps stood upright in a handful of playdough) gives the dog a destination to move away from you while you teach him to move around behind you to follow you down a narrow aisle.This pup shows how it works. The gadget on the left is a Treat and Train which dispenses a treat when the dog touches the tip of the stick and

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-6660932856319857882009-01-06T09:43:00.000-08:002009-01-12T10:04:15.056-08:00

Targeting is simple, yet effective tool for everyone to use when training their dog. In many ways, it is a handy extension of your arm that helps your dog to understand what his destination is for any specific task.Targeting is used by dog owners without them thinking about they are doing. When you pat your leg or use your finger to point, you are using targeting. It is usually the first step in

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-28596115734476846222009-01-04T10:32:00.000-08:002009-04-25T23:12:50.931-07:00

Here is the first in a series of videos. This one shows you how to get the most out of rewards: what, how and when to use them.9 Habits of Effective Clicker Trainers Part 1 Using Rewards

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-47452969859236357832009-01-04T10:03:00.000-08:002009-03-02T08:12:56.055-08:00

Our training approach is based on this technique and is very effective for training dogs!Your job is to find out what food or toy rewards are meaningful enough to your dog to make him want to play the game with you. And training really is a game to the dogs and you too!Psychologost Skinner called the tiny steps in developing a new behavior “successive approximation” and he was right! If you

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-7127835619980273242009-01-04T09:24:00.000-08:002009-01-12T10:03:13.149-08:00

In the 1930’s, BF Skinner was studying what was then a new type of Psychology, looking at animal behavior. While working with rats and pigeons, he discovered some basic principles about how an animal learned. Skinner fiound that animals could be conditioned to learn by operating the environment around them, just as we humans do. He called it Operant Conditioning.Quite by accident, he found out

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-55205826312284709972009-01-03T09:25:00.000-08:002009-01-12T10:02:36.743-08:00

In Blog # 4, I refer to the CGN (Canine Good Neighbor) Test. It is a test that is created and tested by the Canadian Kennel Club to help give people a way of showing that their dogs are good canine citizens.Unfortunately, they don’t give a detailed description of what is involved so we offer it below for your information. Basically, what they are looking for is a dog that is relaxed and

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-65559327020213893772009-01-03T09:08:00.000-08:002011-01-07T18:19:41.374-08:00

Using humane methods based on learning theory that are positive and fun for dog and owner (using sound markers, food and toys), individuals learn to train their own dog to do specific tasks that lead to greater independence in their home and beyond. VIAD Training Facilitators provide access to the training framework, teach owners how to teach the foundation skills and offer expertise for problem

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-6638951187249958292009-01-02T11:27:00.000-08:002009-03-19T13:36:28.249-07:00

Here is one reason why it might be worth the effort to certify your assistance dog. Vision Impaired man's offer for condo in Sydney, BC fell through because his dog was not certified. Ended up in court.

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-88421370139617074122009-01-02T09:53:00.000-08:002009-06-04T14:58:47.489-07:00

If you are only going to use your dog at home, and take it only to places that any pet dog can go, the answer is no. If you need to take your dog in public places where pet dogs are not allowed, yes.At HomeIn some circumstances where your work environment is suitable and safe, the employer and other employees are okay with it, you may also not need to be certified to take your assistance dog to

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-84106510817396477512009-01-02T08:34:00.000-08:002011-04-14T22:44:20.710-07:00

Since I've had several question about raising Service Dog puppies recently. Here is a list of things to make sure your breeder does, in addition to the Early Neurological Stimulation Program: General socializing: the Rule of 7s: By the time a puppy is seven weeks old, he/she should have: 1. Been on 7 different types of surfaces: carpet, concrete, wood, vinyl, grass, dirt, gravel, wood chips,

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-12914886955006329792009-01-02T08:33:00.000-08:002011-04-14T22:43:42.808-07:00

"I discovered your amazing training methods while searching for " trained diabetes alert dogs."  I am new to all of this.  Our 4.5 year old daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in November, 2010.   I have no idea where to begin.  Do you know of any reputable breeders and or trainers who will partially train diabetes alert dogs? I understand that much training will need to happen at home

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-44932996549134513722009-01-02T08:32:00.000-08:002009-01-12T09:59:14.183-08:00

In Home TasksIf you are considering in-home work only, almost any healthy dog of suitable size for the task can be taught some simple tasks. Your dog can even be 'stubborn', fearful or even what you consider to be dumb if you use our methods! Once you both learn how to learn and work together, you can progress to more complex tasks. All it takes is a little time everyday and some understanding of

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-91698089010135301202009-01-01T12:01:00.000-08:002010-04-26T19:40:00.191-07:00

Goal SettingAs we are often asked to help people who are out of our geographical area (but are limited by volunteer time as to how many people we can help), we thought we would provide an example of a fictional Training Plan so you can create your own.The simple plan below is for a young dog with little basic obedience behaviors. Adapt it to your own dog and situation as needed. You can add in as

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-49152720688960369592009-01-01T12:00:00.000-08:002011-01-14T10:38:28.872-08:00

Application for Vancouver Island Assistance Dogs Training Program current as of Jan, 2011 If you are interested in training and other support, please copy the form, open our email, paste it in, fill it out and send it to us. Please note: we only consider applications from within the geographical boundaries of Vancouver Island, BC Canada due to volunteer time limits. We are now available to

VIAD Training Teamnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8284116337914772749.post-91303642123908851332009-01-01T11:46:00.000-08:002009-01-12T09:56:48.337-08:00

Are you among the 20% of the Vancouver Island population who has medical or physical disabilities that limits your lifestyle? Would you like to increase your independence, safety and quality of life?We can help guide you through training your own dog to help you in day to day life situations at home or in public! If your dog has a sound temperament, is in good health, and is the appropriate size/

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