Effective, Gentle & Positive Training

We all want a dog who is a pleasure to be around; who can come with us almost anywhere, who comes when called, sits when asked, walks nicely on leash, takes treats gently, doesn’t jump on people or snatch food from the gutter or from a child.

These are reasonable expectations and My Dog, LLC can help you achieve them.

My Dog, LLC uses pet and human-friendly training methods that are effective and fun! These methods will serve you and your dog for a lifetime!

By combining learning theory (classical and operant conditioning) with “clicker training”, teaching your dog can be simple, fast, fun and effective. It is never too late or too early to build a solid behavioral foundation.

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What is "Clicker Training"?

The clicker is a small, mechanical device. You teach your dog that the click sound means s/he is doing something you like. You follow the click with a small treat. The click identifies (“marks” in trainer jargon) the behavior you like. The treat is the paycheck, also referred to as the “reinforcer”. This is positive reinforcement and it works! It is fun, easy and EFFECTIVE!

Ready to start?

Let's Go!

Dogs Are Always Asking...

	Who is in charge?
	What is my place in the pack/family?
	What are the rules?

Training Tips

	BE SINCERE when you praise! Dogs respond better when you mean it!
	Have patience! You have a dog, not a rocket scientist or a mind reader!
	Practice, Practice, PRACTICE!
	Consistency! It isn't the hobgloblin of little minds; it is an effective training tool!

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Resources

• APDT
• SFSPCA
• Some Training and Behavior Sites:
  • Clicker Training
  • Clicker Solutions
  • Click and Treat
  • Clicker Lessons
  • Peaceable Paws
  • The Collared Scholar
  • K9Deb
• Behavior Problem Training Tips
• AKC
• Whole Dog Journal
• Some Vet Sites:
  • Encyclopedia of Canine Veterinary Medical Information
  • Washington State University Vet School
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
• Dances With Dogs - Daycare and More...

Comments From Students

• “This was a great training program. I really like the instructor, the handouts and the e-mail follow-up.”

• “Caryl-Rose is a wonderful teacher and the content is fun! I liked the small class size.”

• “I feel we now have a good foundation. I really love the information.”

• “KoKo got better, more consistent with ‘sit’, ‘wait’, and ‘loose-leash walking’.”

• “This class has enhanced our total family experience.”

• “Caryl-Rose has both professional skill and common sense -- a winning combination for the humans and dogs lucky enough to work with her. She knows how to build confidence in her clients as well.”

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Meet the Trainer

Caryl-Rose Pofcher opened My Dog, LLC in 2003. Now based in Amherst, Massachusetts, her primary focus is helping owners build harmonious living relationships with their dogs through positive training and leadership.

“Most of us got a dog (or dogs!) for pleasure. We enjoy their companionship and look forward to taking them many places with us. Perhaps we had “Lassie”, or “Eddie”, or “Toto” in mind.

“Dogs must be taught what humans expect. Otherwise they will act like dogs – jumping, barking, pulling or lunging on leash, scavenging, and deciding for themselves where to pee and poop. A dog who does such things won’t be a joy to live with and is more likely to be relegated to the yard, basement, or garage, and eventually be surrendered to a shelter.

“Socialization and basic training with positive techniques help prevent or change such a downward spiral and give you the dog you want,” explains Caryl-Rose.

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About Us

My Dog works professionally with dogs and their owners and is committed to the learning process of the entire family. Understanding how dogs learn and think helps us teach them more quickly and with longer lasting results. These methods help define the dog’s place and behavior in the home and teach the family how to reinforce and maintain what the dog has learned. My Dog’s training is gentle, effective and fun. With a little time and consistency, you too can have a pet that you and your family can enjoy as well as love!