Our Philosophy
Training here at Platform K9 is custom tailored to each individual dog. We know that every dog is different, and what works for one dog may work differently for another. We believe dog training is all about balance.
What does Balance mean?
We believe in using both positive reinforcement (yes) and consequences (no). While we use reward-based methods to teach the behaviors we want, we believe in the dog also understanding consequences for non-compliance. If we only reward the good and ignore the bad, the dog will choose what best suits them. If there is no consequence that is valuable enough for the dog to want to stop the poor behavior, they will continue to do it! For example: if we teach a jumping dog they should sit instead of jump to get rewarded, but we never teach the dog that there’s a consequence for jumping, the dog will continue to jump because he is rewarding himself. By including all sides of the equation, we are able to reach balance.
Balanced Dog, Balanced Home, Balanced Owners.
There is no one method or tool that works to help every dog. So we like to have every option in the tool kit available to help dogs be the best they can be. We often rely on our most universal and adaptable tools like the prong collar and e-collar as it allows effective and clear communication. These tools give the owner the power to feel confident and in control. We also often use the help from our own pack of dogs (and extended pack of past clients that frequently visit) with the belief that there is no easier way for a dog to learn, than learning by example. With that help, we are able to show that there is a leader of the pack which all the other balanced dogs follow- the human. Here at Platform K9, we are very transparent about our work. We document and show everything that we do through photos and videos that get posted up on social media. We want people to not only see what we are doing along with how and why it works, but to also take this content and learn how to help their own dogs succeed!
Tools We Use
We know how important it is to create a clear and consistent communication
We recognize the importance of utilizing all of the tools in the dog training toolbox, but strive to reach realistic goals by taking on the least intrusive, most effective approach based on the dog’s assessment and progress. We utilize a variety of training tools and focus on balancing conditioning to teach/increase desirable behaviors (reinforcement) and correct/decrease unwanted behaviors (consequence).
Elevated Dog Bed
An elevated dog bed is used as a household management tool that teaches the dog impulse control and establishes a boundary. It is also a calming tool that teaches over-aroused dogs how to “turn-off” and provides a predictable and safe space for anxious, and fearful dogs to relax within the home. We use an elevated dog bed to teach the “Place” command. To the dog, “Place” means put all four paws on this surface and relax until you are released or given another command.
Prong Collar
A Herm Sprenger prong collar is used as a directional prompting tool to guide the dog using a language they understand, pressure and release! Compared to flat collars and martingale collars that can actually cause a lot of harm to the dog’s trachea, prong collars gives an even ‘hug’ around the dog’s entire neck instead of direct pressure in one spot.
Crates
A crate is used as a calming tool to create a "den-like" space where dogs can learn to self-soothe and be alone. It is also used as a safety and household management tool to ensure that dogs do not make poor choices (i.e., property destruction, eating inedible objects) when they are not under direct supervision. Your dog’s crate should only be big enough that your dog can sit up comfortably, lay down and turn around. We use a variety of styles of crates from wire to aluminium.
E-Collar
Micro Educator E-Collar is a prompting tool that uses similar technology as a TENS unit to provide discreet prompts through pressure and release of muscle stimulation on the dog's neck. After the dog is taught pressure and release using the prong collar, we overlap with e-collar pressure to help the dog understand what we want. This is a safety tool ('invisible leash'). E-collars are an essential tool for achieving off-leash obedience and reliability.
E-collars help make bad behavior good and good behavior better
We acknowledge the many negative perceptions about the e-collar, but invite you to be open minded about the innovative technology and endless opportunities proper e-collar training provides.
Leash & Long-Line
A leash is used as a prompting tool to guide the dog from shorter distances and as a safety tool to ensure the dog is backed up while proofing on-leash commands.
A long-line is used as a prompting tool to guide the dog from farther distances and as a safety tool to ensure the dog is backed up while practicing off-leash commands.
Food & Treats
Food is used as a motivational tool to shape and reward desirable behaviors. It is also a prompting tool that is used for luring the dog into various positions. If your dog is currently on a kibble diet, their daily amount will be portioned across the day to motivate them and teach new behaviors. If your dog is currently on a raw diet, you are encouraged to provide dehydrated or freeze-dried food/treats.
Martingale Collar
There are several benefits these collars offer. They are very effective at preventing your dog from slipping out of the collar.
They are also very adjustable, so you can get a perfect fit for your dog’s neck. This is important for both comfort and safety. A poorly fitting collar can be uncomfortable for your dog.
These collars provide a milder form of correction than others. This makes them a good choice for dogs who are sensitive to corrections and puppies.