Training Practices & Solutions

Training sessions led by Alana Brantley, ABCDT.

Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer, Owner

Why “Comprehensive” Dog Training? | A “Whole Dog” Training Approach

Looking for dog training that goes beyond the basic sit, stay, and heel commands? You're in the right place. My comprehensive training strategy does more than just tackle specific issues—it focuses on the whole dog. We dive deep into your dog's body language, daily environment, exercise habits, mental stimulation, nutritional health, family bonds, routine, past social experiences, and typical behavior patterns. Why? Because true behavior transformation comes from addressing all these interconnected factors.

By embracing this holistic approach, we not only solve immediate problems but set your dog up for long-term success and happiness. I aim to give you peace of mind, knowing that your dog isn’t just trained—they're understood, nourished, and truly fulfilled. After all, my mission is to make sure your dog leads the happiest, most enriched life possible.

Training & Behavior Modification Style

I am a LIMA trainer.

What Is LIMA?

“LIMA’ is an acronym for the phrase ‘least intrusive, minimally aversive.’ LIMA describes a trainer or behavior consultant who uses the least intrusive, minimally aversive strategy out of a set of humane and effective tactics likely to succeed in achieving a training or behavior change objective. LIMA adherence also requires consultants to be adequately educated and skilled in order to ensure that the least intrusive and aversive procedure is used. 

LIMA does not justify the use of punishment in lieu of other effective interventions and strategies. In the vast majority of cases, desired behavior change can be affected by focusing on the animal's environment, physical well-being, and operant and classical interventions such as differential reinforcement of an alternative behavior, desensitization, and counter-conditioning.

Building the Foundation

Every dog I work with receives a personalized assessment, allowing me to tailor training methods that align with their unique characteristics and their owner's specific training objectives. In our initial session, we will engage in a detailed discussion about your dog's environment, daily routines, past experiences, and desired training outcomes. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that our training curriculum encompasses all relevant aspects and prioritizes training items. Above all, we will prioritize meeting your dog's individual needs. Effective training thrives when dogs are provided with ample opportunities for mental stimulation and physical exercise. As part of our conversation, we can explore various options, such as engaging activities or stimulating toys, that can assist in fulfilling your dog's specific requirements.

I welcome clients with an already established and exceptional relationship with their dog, or those who seek guidance to strengthen their connection. In order for owners to become the most effective teachers for their dogs, cultivating a strong and positive relationship is paramount. While training undeniably strengthens the bond between you and your dog, we can discuss various engaging options that go beyond training, allowing you to forge an even stronger and more fulfilling bond.

Unlocking the "Why" Behind Your Dog's Behavior

At the heart of my training philosophy is a strong focus on helping you, the dog owner understand the reasons behind your dog’s actions—both the behaviors you want to encourage and the behaviors you want to change. My goal is to arm you with the knowledge and tools you need to understand your dog's actions and reactions. Knowing the "why" behind their behavior is key to effectively implementing training techniques. When you understand the reasons for your dog's behavior, you're not just going through the motions; you're aware that you’re taking meaningful steps to encourage positive change and foster the behaviors you want to see.

Acceptable alternative behaviors:
Teach Your Dog What To Do, Not Just What Not To Do

One of the key elements of my training approach is to teach dogs what we want them to do, rather than just saying "no" to what we don't want. Imagine how confusing it can be for your dog if we're always saying "no," but don’t guide them on what to do instead. For example, if your dog has a habit of jumping up to greet people, we'll work on teaching them to sit politely instead. By providing specific alternatives and guidance, we're giving dogs a clearer understanding of what's expected from them. This helps your dog not only avoid unwanted behaviors but also promotes positive ones, creating a win-win situation.

clear communication

I firmly believe that a harmonious and content relationship between dogs and their owners is built upon the foundation of clear and effective communication. This involves teaching effective methods of communication through an owner’s body language, hand signals, verbal cues, and well-timed verbal markers. Clear communication also means that we provide consistent consequences, expectations, and incentives. Together, we'll work on refining your communication skills, ensuring that you and your dog have clarity in your interactions.

Helping you win the Attention competition

For the majority of dogs, the allure of the outside world tends to overshadow their owners; interesting animals, intriguing smells, and exciting sights often compete for their attention. My training approach aims to put you back at the center of your dog's world. Using the right incentives, we'll teach your dog that choosing to focus on you is always the best option. The result? Instead of chasing every squirrel or sniffing every new smell, your dog will be trained to give you their undivided attention—even amid distractions.

training equipment

Choosing the right training equipment is crucial, but it's not an instant solution by itself. Training equipment is only one component of successful training. My philosophy focuses on more than just picking the right tools; we incorporate them into a comprehensive training strategy. This ensures your dog's safety and helps them understand what's expected of them.

Each client typically starts out with a Martingale collar, which is included in the cost of training. It's designed to be both safe and comfortable for your dog. This means your don’t won’t be able to slip out of the Martingale collar, but it won't restrict their breathing.

You might wonder why we don't use other types of gear like head halters or harnesses. In my experience, most dogs don't like wearing head halters. And harnesses can actually complicate the training process. We generally avoid using harnesses unless your dog has a specific medical need or we're doing recall exercises using a long leash. This is because a harness allows the dog to pull using their entire body, making it tougher to control them. Also, if your dog has a habit of picking up things from the ground, a collar helps you better manage their head movements, which is safer than using a harness.

The top priority during training is ensuring both your dog’s safety and your ability to control your dog effectively. Depending on your specific situation and your dog's needs, we may introduce other equipment, like long recall leashes, Herm Sprenger training collars, or remote collars*.

For safety, retractable leashes are not permitted during training. Instead, all clients are required to use a standard leash that is about 6 feet long.

What’s included?

• Real-time Coaching for effective training

  I don't just walk you through a list of exercises; I pay close attention to the unique dynamic between you and your dog. As you work with your dog, I provide immediate, specific feedback aimed at enhancing all facets of your training—from perfecting your timing, cues, rewards, and verbal markers, as well as mastering leash handling and decoding the subtle body language cues from your dog. My ultimate commitment is to equip you with the essential, hands-on skills for long-term success with your dog.

• Training where you need it most:
  REAL-WORLD TRAINING VENUES

  Forget generic group classes, set your dog up for success in the world they live in! I take the training to where you and your dog need it the most. Your journey starts with an in-depth, in-home session. From there, we have the flexibility to continue refining their behavior at home or progress to various stimulating environments—be it parks, pet-friendly stores, or hiking trails—to develop your dog’s skills in real-world scenarios.

• UNMATCHED TRAINING MATERIALS

  While many trainers overlook the importance of session notes, I prioritize them as a crucial component for lasting success. It’s a tall order to remember every detail from each training session which is why my extensive notes act as your ongoing roadmap for effective training. My client materials have been meticulously crafted and regularly updated over hundreds of hours. Session notes include direct links to any purchase recommendations given, custom training reminders, a training “homework” list to help you stay on track, and detailed training instructions.

• On-Demand Support Between Sessions: Always Just a Message Away!

  As my client, you have multiple channels of communication—whether it's email, text, or a scheduled phone call. Whether you're encountering new challenges or just want to ensure you're on the right track, my support doesn't end when the session does.

• Video feedback and expert insights

  Looking to fine-tune your at-home training? Feel free to send over a quick video of your practice sessions. I'll review your video and provide you with actionable feedback to ensure you and your dog are on the right track.

  Ever find yourself puzzled by your dog's behavior? A video can say a thousand words. I'll weigh in with my expert analysis to put your mind at ease and guide you on how to respond. I'm committed to being your go-to resource for any questions or concerns you may have.

• COMPREHENSIVE NUTRITIONAL GUIDANCE

  Good habits stem from good health, which is rooted in sound nutrition. That's why, as a clinical pet nutritionist, I complement training sessions with free, with scientifically-based advice on diet, treats, supplements, and feeding amounts. Whether your dog faces allergies, has health issues, could lose a few pounds, or is already the epitome of health, I've got you covered.

• LIFETIME SUPPORT FOR CONTINUED SUCCESS

  Have a question after your sessions have ended? You'll have unlimited access to phone or email support for any previously addressed training issues. I’m with you every step of the way!

Training & Behavior Modification Solutions for:

The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test

Basic obedience training ( sit, stay, down, leave it, drop it, etc.)

Puppy training

Other training matters including (but not limited to):

• Aggression (barrier aggression, dog-on-dog inside of the home, leash aggression)

• Anxious behaviors

• Barking

• Clicker training

• Crate training

• Destructive behavior (inappropriate chewing, digging)

• Dog reactivity

• E-collar training

• Greeting guests

• Housebreaking

• Impulse control

• Jumping

• Leash manners (loose leash walking)

• Marking (inappropriate elimination)

• Off-leash recall

• Puppy biting

• Reactivity (towards people and/or other triggers)

• Resource-guarding assessment and mangement

• Separation anxiety

• Socialization (with people and/or dogs)

• Therapy dog training

*E-Collar Technologies Brand collar with stimulation, vibration, and tone modes. It's important to note that this collar is not a traditional "shock" collar that applies electric currents or causes convulsive or thermal effects that may result in injuries or burns. Instead, this modern e-collar implements transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), which stimulates nerves and sensory receptors without causing harm. It is used only at low levels, typically 0-15 out of 100, and is NEVER used for punishment in our training.

The tapping sensation produced by the collar serves as a physical means to communicate with your dog, much like tapping someone's shoulder to get their attention. While we already communicate with dogs through verbal commands and visual cues like hand signals and body language, the e-collar adds a tactile element that allows dogs to feel our requests in addition to hearing and seeing them. This feature proves valuable for particularly reactive, aggressive, or inattentive dogs, especially in high-distraction situations where verbal commands and hand signals alone may not suffice to capture their attention.

This is not a “quick fix”. Dogs must have a solid understanding of commands before an e-collar is layered over the commands. Positive reinforcement techniques and handler engagement exercises remain fundamental parts of the training process. Building a strong relationship with your dog remains the most effective way to reliably capture their attention. The e-collar serves as a tool to enhance communication and improve responsiveness, always used with care and within the appropriate training context.