OUR PHILOSOPHY Our obedience program is based on positive reinforcement. Unlike group or individual classes, we designed a program that first trains the dog, then trains the owners to the dog, and then puts them together as a team. We have found this to be the most effective method. The burden of responsibility is taken from the owner and given to us as trainers. We train for success. The dogs gain behavior skills around other dogs, how to handle training with many distractions and most importantly how to behave as a well mannered dog. We work hard with the whole family to make sure the dog and the family have a clear understanding of who is in charge. We enjoy spending a lot of time developing a structure that best suits the lifestyle of the family and the dog. We do not hold conversations with our dogs. The commands are simple and straight forward. Everyone in the family will learn them and enforce them. Our training is a learning experience for everyone.We believe in giving the dogs a healthy, safe, happy and challenging environment to work. |
TESTIMONIALS'In the spring of 2002, my wife and I got Tallie, an eight week old yellow lab. We were excited to get her. However, our joy soon turned into frustration. We thought we where ready for the puppy stages, we were not ready for Tallie. We absolutely could not control her. Our own experience failed us. Everything we read sounded good, but didn't work. Tallie was a loving puppy, but just full of energy. My wife and I were becoming emotionally drained and physically exhausted. Finally, out of desperation, my wife talked to our vet about our options. She suggested that we contact Graham and Victoria Sharp. We were somewhat skeptical, but also desperate. We contacted Sharp Retrievers and arranged a meeting. Seeing Graham work with Tallie that first meeting was amazing. She took to him instantly. They explained their training methods, what they would expect of Tallie, and what they would expect of us. We agreed. For 6 weeks, the time that we had talked about, they kept Tallie and worked with her. At specific appointed times, we came out, and they worked with us as well. The change in Tallie was incredible. Tallie's personality was intact. But she had learned her place, a point we could never seem to get across to her. She also learned what was acceptable behavior, and how to react when being corrected. For our part, we learned the proper commands, how to properly correct Tallie, and the reasons for her prior behavior. Tallie has been home now for several months. She can still be mischievous at times. She is after all a puppy. But she is certainly much better behaved. She is also much happier now knowing what we expect of her. Tallie's training has been a great investment towards the happiness of our family. Graham and Victoria did a great job. We would strongly recommend them to anyone considering training for their dog.'
Tod & Kay Davis
Chanute, Ks. |
