Training Therapy Dogs to Enjoy Life

Training a dog to become a therapy dog is a noble endeavour, requiring dedication, patience, and specialised dog training skills. But beyond the formal training process lies a beautiful concept: lifestyle training. This approach focuses on seamlessly integrating dogs into various aspects of their owner’s life, fostering a bond that enriches both human and canine experiences. 

Imagine a Sunday afternoon spent on a winery tour with fabulous humans and their gorgeous doggies, savouring wine, food, and a bit of learning, all while hanging with your best furry buddy. This is precisely what our mentor Judy recently experienced with her dog George, courtesy of the Dog Training company Patient Paws.  Patient Paws advocate for extending training beyond the confines of the classroom and into the vibrant tapestry of real-life experiences! These outings provided Judy and George the perfect opportunity to put into practice the skills they honed in classes, all while forging unforgettable memories with each other.

Lifestyle training emphasises the idea that training your dog extends far beyond basic obedience commands. It’s about teaching them to navigate real-life situations with ease and grace, whether it’s welcoming guests at home, strolling through a bustling park, or enjoying a meal at a pet-friendly restaurant. By instilling good manners and behaviors, dogs become valuable companions in every aspect of our lives. The winery tour exemplified this beautifully, showcasing how therapy dogs, like George, can thrive in diverse environments, spreading joy and positivity wherever they go.  These outings serve as confidence-building exercises, both for dogs and their owners, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment with each successful interaction. We couldn’t be prouder of Judy and George for the wonderful way they maintain their training standards. 

 

A shout out goes to Cannibal Creek Vineyard for graciously hosting the group, providing the perfect backdrop for our memorable winery adventure. And of course Patient Paws for always coming up with interesting com ethical, and effective training solutions.