When it comes to dog training, there's endless ways you can train the dog, but what's the best way? That's the question that we ask at PK9. For every dog that comes our way, for services or training, we always strive for the absolute best. Therefore, we use relationship-based positive reinforcement. What does that mean? Pawzitive K9 Academy uses the bond you establish with your animal, and uses it to further your training, through positive reinforcement. Positive Reinforcement (or +R) training includes providing a positive reward in association to the desired behavior, or position. For example, you ask your dog to sit, then treat them when they complete the action. This is positive reinforcement (+R). To utilize your bond, or to strengthen this bond, PK9 encourages new environments, or distractions, that may challenge your dog's confidence. However, when it comes to behavioral rehabilitation and/or modification, we take a more balanced method approach. We strongly believe many, if not most, behaviors can be modified, or replaced and substituted, with a more desirable behavior. Therefore, with our balanced methods approach, we will still be evaluating the dog through its progress to ensure its confidence, comprehension, and overall health and wellbeing are first and foremost to its training.  (Please note that most puppies begin their confidence building, socialization, and bonding around 12-18 weeks, as this is the most crucial period. This also is the period that most puppies thrive on introduction to new things. If this period has been missed, or your dog is at this stage, please refer to our Beginner Tier of training.)

As defined by the American Disability Act, a service animal, typically a dog, is specially trained at least one task to mitigate a person's disability. For someone to qualify for a service animal, they must have a condition that affects their daily activities, or life. For example, our head trainer suffers from Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, and Agoraphobia. With these conditions, her daily life and activities are extremely limited. From leaving the house, to getting out of bed, this can seem impossible for someone with these conditions. 

Along with the guidance of a medical professional, a service dog can be recommended to help lessen the intensity of life. When a service animal is being considered, the person's disabilities and needs, must be taken into account when trying to decide on the animal. A service horse is a great option for someone with a larger build, may need mobility tasks, or has dog allergies. A service dog can be any breed, therefore, making the selection far greater and complicated. Most common ways of obtaining a service dog: research, programs, and owner training. When deciding on a service dog, please consider temperament, breed, energy levels, and the tasks that will be necessary.