TREAT Training

At TREAT, we use positive reinforcers and treats to not only teach obedience but to also change behavior. Using classical conditioning and counterconditioning, we can effect real behavioral changes. We do this by “pairing” something an animal finds stressful, with something an animal naturally likes (usually, treats!).

Classical conditioning is when a dog learns to associate a neutral stimulus with a meaningful one, leading to an automatic response. The most famous example is Pavlov’s dog, who learned to associate a bell with food, and eventually salivated just at the sound of the bell. We use a marker word that has been associated with treats to mark behaviors even when we are across the room. 

Counterconditioning is extremely useful, especially for changing unwanted emotional responses like fear, anxiety, and reactivity. It’s kind of like classical conditioning’s chill cousin—same concept, but used to replace a negative association with a positive one.

FAQ

  • Personalized in-home training offers you the ability to collaborate with your trainer to accomplish your goals for your pet. Pets are more comfortable at home so they learn better and we can more effectively address problem behaviors in the environment they may occur. We can also help you learn how to teach your pet new skills and tricks or just participate in the lessons. In-home training gives us the most flexibility and produces great results for pets and humans!

  • At TREAT, we know that a stressed animal cannot learn. Too much stress releases the hormone ACTH which inhibits learning. That is why we do not use e-collars or prong or pinch collars. Positive reinforcement training is backed by hundreds of statistically significant studies and leads to long lasting change. Whether you want your pet to be more confident, learn some new skills, or be more relaxed, we will make learning fun.

  • Training your pet is a lifelong journey. As your pet grows, new behaviors may develop and without practice, even the strongest skills can fall by the wayside. TREAT teaches owners the skills to successfully work with their pets. Loving your pet is about learning to communicate with them so that you can both live your best lives.

  • YES! We create individualized programs and adventures for your pet. Sometimes a pet just needs a some practice in different settings or some extra TLC. Either way, we will work with you to accomplish your goals.