Just as the English Labrador breed has evolved over time, so has the science of dog training. The last 80 years have seen an explosion of ever-developing research on dog behavior, which has led to an exciting (or maybe dizzying!) array of new best practices for training dogs.
What has emerged is that the punishment-based theories of training that were initially developed in the 1940s have as many unintended negative consequences as they do beneficial behavioral ones (the most concerning of which is aggressive behavior). Evidence-based authorities on dog behavior now recommend relying on positive reinforcement and positive classical conditioning to train dogs, rather than punishment and attempts at dominance. Positive, force-free methods are highly effective when implemented correctly and have significantly fewer risks than punishment-based training.
This is excellent news for the English Labrador, whose ancestors spent their working days cooperating with humans in exchange for access to food, shelter, and the care and companionship of humans; in other words, positive reinforcement. The English Labrador takes extremely well to this style of training and can learn astonishingly quickly in the hands of a well-versed trainer.
It is possibly less welcome news for the many millions of dog guardians in the world, who are struggling to keep up with the latest research and best practices in addition to taking care of their other daily responsibilities. Wading into the wide world of how-to books and dog training websites can be a confusing endeavor, and in the unregulated industry of dog training, it can be difficult to find a highly qualified, credentialed professional to advise you.
While training is a lifelong endeavor, a firm foundation in positive-reinforcement based training can help you set out on the right path with your puppy. Under the leadership of multi-certified dog trainer, Jess Kelley-Madera, On The Bluff Labradors hosts Puppy University, an in-depth training program for selected puppies from our litters. Puppies remain on our grounds for an additional 3 weeks to 4 months, during which time they learn potty training, crate training, basic manners, and more.
Puppy University students are hand-selected from our many stellar puppies for their particular promise in training and service work. Puppies live on our grounds and learn their foundational training skills; take an exam where they can earn their Puppy Degree; and finally, graduate and move on to loving homes! Puppy University graduates conclude their training programs with a transfer session where we teach you how to perform all of the cues your puppy has learned; we discuss safe and effective management during the remainder of your puppy’s growing period; and we answer any remaining questions you may have about how to train your pup. After graduating, Puppy University clients retain access to Jess Kelley-Madera for additional guidance as their puppy transitions into their home.
Are you interested in bringing home a graduate from Puppy University?