Play-based dog training is the most effective form of dog training because it speaks to the fundamental nature of dogs. Canines refine their innate hunting skills through rough-and-tumble play with their littermates.
As Stuart Brown outlined in his 2009 TED Talk “Play is more than Fun”, Play is an essential part of cognitive, emotional, and physical development. True Play doesn’t have a purpose more important than playing itself.
Neurologist Frank Wilson (author of The Hand) also points out that Play—especially Object Play early in life—enhances the ability to problem-solve. Moreover, Play is part of exploration and learning. This is no different for humans than other mammals; including dogs. Play is vital. That is why play-based training is so powerful. Furthermore, Play is not just a rehearsal for life, as we previously believed. Play is more. Above all, Play serves an important biological function, like sleeping and dreaming. In addition, Play Deprivation has been observed as a significant contributor to anti-social and even criminal behaviors.
We are located in Southern California and train dogs nationwide. Happy Dog Training currently offers local dog training services in the following counties. Riverside County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, Los Angeles County, and San Diego County. In addition, we offer our board-and-train program nationwide and all virtual training services worldwide.
Do you want your new puppy trained right from the start? Are you looking for help for your fearful dog? Do you need to resolve a severe aggression problem? You came to the right place! We are experienced, professional dog trainers. Ralf has trained over 1500 dogs in over 18 years, and Sarah has trained over 1200 dogs in over 11 years. Consequently, we can help you with any dog training goal.
We can help you, regardless of your dog's challenges or training goals. Being a professional dog trainer means having experience, knowledge, and skill. Further, we developed a highly effective training program to specifically help fearful dogs gain more confidence and become the best possible version of themselves. Building Confidence is our second most popular training program.
Last but not least, we are experts in dealing with all types of aggression in dogs and are often the trainers of last resort after many other programs have failed. Most of our aggressive dog clients previously spent significant money on half-baked solutions without much improvement. This is different from us. We will give you an honest assessment of what goals are realistic for your dog. We will tell you what can be resolved reliably and what likely needs to be managed before we start.
Our flagship product is our board and train program. But our virtual dog training and coaching services have become quite popular over the last couple of years. Our setup enables us to deliver online dog training services from our indoor and outdoor training areas. This allows us to help clients worldwide.
Finally, once you're ready to move forward, please use our dog training contact form to schedule a free phone consultation or book a paid, in-person consultation.