What is the best training resource please?

[HelenHywater]

hi, my teens are off school now until Sept and are going to whip our dogs into shape - they are both not 100% trained and have different bad habits each (e.g. one barks in the garden, the other pulls on the lead ). Probably have 80% recall etc as bad habits set in during lockdown.

what is the best book/online resource for training them? I thought we'd try this before bringing in a trainer. Thanks

This Facebook page is brilliant - run by qualified positive-reinforcement behaviourists
www.facebook.com/groups/374160792599484/?ref=share

You will probably save more time and money by just getting in a one to one trainer for a few sessions tbh.

They will tailor the sessions for your dogs and you will be on the correct path and have advice on hand for those tricky bits that crop up.

I think that Susan Garrrett and Sexier than a Squirrel both offer online dog training programmes that you can sign up to. Haven't tried either of them, but they both also have some free resources available so you can see if you like them before you hand over any cash.

Dog training classes have started in small numbers. Group classes are far better than anything online.

I would absolutely recommend the ‘Sexier than a squirrel’ and Absolutedogs- we have had great success with loose lead walking, recall and proximity when off lead from playing games taught in these online resources.
It is great fun so probably great for teens (though I am far older and I love it!) and there are loads of free resources to try first - podcasts, Facebook groups and Youtube videos.
They teach you the games to play with your dog that shows your dog where the value is and changes the way your dog thinks and also improves the relationship you have with your dog.
There’s no quick fix- no jerking the collar, or force or punishment, but by playing these games for a few minutes every day you will see results.

Will try those @Niknakpaddywhack and @QueenOfToast first and then move onto a trainer as necessary. Thanks!

The Guide Dogs have an online training course. Worth a look as they have been training dogs for decades and only use positive training methods.