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Dog Training Options

    
 
     
 

There is an art to training dogs that only comes with

years of experience, keen understanding and a deep passion for dogs.

We have that experience.  We have that knowledge.  We have that passion.

 
     
  We believe that a fully educated dog has experienced:  
  exceptional Training + impeccable Management +  comprehensive Socialization  
     
  EXPERIENCE:  
  Tammie, an Animal Behaviorist for over 20 years, has been providing exceptional, highly successful dog training to the public since 1986.  Robert joined the effort in 2001.  
     
  UNDERSTANDING:  
  While attaining her degree in Biology, Tammie spent significant time studying animal behavior, information which she and Robert continue to apply in their training classes and with the board and train dogs.  
 

We have our own "pack" of dogs (our personal pets) ranging from young puppies to very senior individuals that are retired on our couch.  Some members of the pack are puppies we raised ourselves.  Some are dogs that we have rescued.  We have intact and neutered males and intact and spayed females.  Our dogs interact with each other in a healthy, socially balanced unit and share the secrets of dog-talk with us on a daily basis.  We examine  dog behavior and take note.  This has been one of the most valuable learning opportunities in understanding how dogs speak to each other and what makes sense to them.  Our training methods emulate the way dogs interact with each other and that is why they are so successful.  If a training or management approach makes sense to the dog, he learns quickly and respects the method. 

 
     
  PASSION:  
  Our adoration for dogs runs very deep.  We are constantly researching other training methods, but we have found many of them are lacking the comprehensive approach that we feel is so critical to success.  
  Our approach to training employs a keen awareness of dog as a very unique species - something which is missing from many of the contemporary methods, and which allows for a non-food-based training technique.  
  Our training methods are based on the sound principles of excellent communication, fairness and consistency, establishing and reinforcing boundaries and offering the dog the tranquility of strong leadership.  
 

But, unlike so many other canine professionals, we also understand that training is only one component required to help a dog become a fully integrated, happy companion animal.  Our TMS approach provides the complete package because a dog doesn't only need training, but also requires proper management and proper socialization to feel comfortable, calm and happy.   We are passionate about helping dogs become truly happy in their homes by helping their owners become exceptional leaders.

 
 

Along with our passion for training dogs comes our passion for educating their humans.  There are some excellent dog trainers in the world.  But, they often do not have the patience, skill or even the desire to deal with the more challenging component of the canine-human team.  It is truly far easier to rehabilitate and train a dog than to teach a human how to be an exceptional leader for their canine companion.  The ability to accomplish both tasks sets our program apart.  Our Classes are designed to teach people how to train their dogs.  Our Board and Train option culminates in a 3-4 hour comprehensive Owner Education session with our human clients which prepares them to continue their dog's education.  We have been told more than once that the Pick Up appointment was worth the entire training fee.  It is an incredibly education and enlightening experience.

 
     
  NO NEED FOR BRIBERY or BAIT POUCHES:  
 

Although we recognize a place for food and toys in some aspects of a dog's training, a dog trained at DarnFar will not require food bribery to willingly obey its commands.  Our approach to dog training and management results in a highly compliant and happy dog without the need for treats.  We use a collar and leash, good timing along with our presence and attitude as the primary components of our method.  We prefer hands-on contact rather than a "remote"/electronic method, because, in our experience, dogs touch each other as an effective form of communicating.

 
     
  WE CAN DO WHAT OTHERS HAVE FAILED TO ACCOMPLISH  
 

We often rehabilitate dogs that have been seen by other "trainers" or "behaviorists" who deemed the dog a "lost cause" or whose methods have failed to resolve the dog's issues.  Do not give up on your dog because some "expert" tells you there is no hope or who have recommended actions which fail or even make the issue worse.  Talk to us.  See if what we say makes sense to you.  Use your own brain and your own common sense and determine whether our approach sounds reasonable.  We expect you to question our methods and you can count on us to explain the rationale behind our processes.  So often we hear clients tell us, "well, what that Behaviorist said didn't really make sense, but we figured she knew what she was doing.  But, the dog just seemed to get worse!"  Let us help you find a method that makes sense to you so that you can emulate it, yourself.  It doesn't really matter if we can get your dog to jump through fire hoops!  You need to be able to control him.  We are dedicated to teaching you AND your dog.

 
     
     
 

Learn how to "speak dog" from us, and we will change your relationship with your pet forever.

 
     
 

Order our comprehensive Dog Training DVD and see our methods in action! Only $29.95

 
     
 

Our success relies on

 
 

Changing The Actions, Attitudes and Aptitudes of dogs and their people!

 
     
 

See it to believe it - click on a link to see a video segment of our dog training

 

 
 Holly, Golden Retriever Ben, Springer Spaniel Jasmine, Boxer Cesar, German Shepherd Dog
       
Jake, Mixed Breed Nana, Newfoundland Curious Cat Parade Kara, German Shepherd Dog at Farm Store

Kara, GSD, in park with kids

Rocky, German Shepherd Dog

Nala, Chihuahua

We Train All Dogs

       

Angel, ACD - nail trim

Max's - I've Gotta Itch

Bruiser - Pit Bull

Socialization

Will My Dog Revert To Old Habits After Professional Training?  Click Here For The Answer.

TRAINING OPTIONS

   

 

  A note from a client whose "Bubba" attended our very popular, two week Board & Train option:

 "I just wanted to send you this picture of Bubba with our son Zack! We would have NEVER been able to get this picture if it was not for your training. Bubba is such a good dog now. He does have his moments but he is 100% better!

Thanks for everything!

Dawn Black

"Bubba" and Zack

   

  Garth was already in peril because he was at a foster home with a Great Pyrenees Rescue group.  Then, he killed a cat at his foster home.  So, Garth came to DarnFar Ranch for rehabilitation.  A week or so after he went back home to his fosters, we received an email entitled:  "Garth the cat killer".  The text in the body of the email said, "No More!" and these photos were attached.  The great news is that Garth was able to be placed in a very loving home with his new "forever" family.

  Thanks, Bob and Val Bute for all the work you do with your Rescues and as Therapy Dog handlers!
     

Do you want to better understand our training philosophies? 

 

Gift Certificates are available in any denomination that can be applied to dog training (includes classes, private lessons and in-home service).  Give the gift of companionship to a friend or loved-one by purchasing a DarnFar Gift Certificate, which will be custom created with the recipient's and / or dog's name. 

 
 

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Tammie instructing a Beginner Obedience class in the spacious training building at DarnFar.

 
 

 

To request an application for the next available class, please email: darnfar@frontiernet.net  or call (618) 427-3333

 
     
 

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