Monday, June 25, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Best dog trainers in portland? (aggression)?

I met Kate with cooper dog training today, her methods didn't seem
too effective. I have a boxer who likes to fight with other dogs including
a black lab who is fighting for the alpha position in the house. Anybody
know a good trainer that isn't unreasonable price wise in the
Portland, Oregon area?

What You Need to Know About Dog Training



Recommended Answer:
I'm not sure exactly what you are trying to look for. It may be that what you want is a trainer to teach you how to form a proper relationship with your dog and be the handler/leader your dog needs, but it also sounds like you are implying that your Boxer is dog aggressive, which is different from slightly rebellious or liking to take charge.

If you are willing, there is a trainer up in Salem who has worked with dog aggressive dogs before, and definitely works all the time with dogs that are a bit rowdy. The price is cheaper than what I have seen at most training facilities, but I strongly suggest you also ask around to compare. A close friend has trained her own dog with this training facility since the dog was 3-4 months old, and has always recommended them. They have worked, it seems, with dogs of all kinds for ages and are skilled evaluators of temperament as well. I know for a fact they are a no nonsense type - if that's what you're looking for, I suggest you give them a call.

Here is their web address:
http://petvillageltd.com/

Contact Information page:
http://petvillageltd.com/contact.php

I know on their website they only list classes working with basic to advanced obedience, and nothing about privately working with aggressive dogs, but I have known and seen aggressive dogs train there, and while they teach a great deal of obedience to dog and handler and work with aggression and handling issues along the way. If you feel need for it, you may want to look into private lessons.

As a heads up, I warn you that they do incorporate a bit of negative reinforcement in their training - their methods are not 100% positive, because they use a prong collar, and while it is the methods that are effective and always used with care and knowledge, some are not comfortable with even the use of a prong collar. Other than that, they focus a great deal on rewards and forming a relationship between the dog and handler, and know what they are doing.

Here is also a training facility in Beaverton, Oregon that I know many people attend with their dogs and enjoy. However, I think they are more of a fun and trick based training center than anything, a place for socialization, agility training, obedience, etc. But they do CGC prep training and may work with aggressive dogs. I have no way of knowing, as I've never worked with them before, but it never hurts to call and ask. You may also want to ask them if they have anyone to recommend who works with dog aggressive dogs.

Website:
http://www.pup-a-razzi.com/

I recommend you discuss your personal situation with the trainer and figure out what is best for you and your dog. Also, instead of a trainer, it may be a certified canine behavioral consultant you are looking for, rather than just a trainer. I do not know your dog or your situation, so I can't say which it is that you need - behaviorist or trainer, or both, but you may want to consider one. True aggression isn't something to be taken lightly and should be properly and quickly evaluated and worked with. Good for you for making an effort, wish you luck.

Using an Electric Dog Training Collar to Train the Recall


  • why would you list the name of someone on a global message board?

  • well i dont know a gud trainer in portland
    since i dont live there
    btw howz boxer? and the othe cats u own?
    hw r u urself?

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