At Nutts About Mutts, we only use reward based training. Put simply, this means that we either catch a dog doing the right thing and reward it, or we teach a dog something and reward them when they get it right. This means your dog is working for you because it is rewarding to do so. We help you to set your dog up for success every time. We help you "catch your dog doing the right thing". Using positive reinforcement training improves the bond you have with your dog and changes your mindset in terms of training. When training is fun it is more enjoyable for all.

We teach you how to be the best leader you can be for your dog. Leaders are loving, respectful and can be trusted. Good leaders teach using understanding and will assist to get it right. Bad leaders use bullying and intimidation to get compliance. Being a good leader to your dog will improve your relationship with your dog so you can enjoy many beautiful years to come.

Our method of training does not mean that we are "permissive". We use non-confronting techniques with behaviours we do not like. We also help you to achieve clear and consistent rules in your home, so the boundaries never change for your dog.

Dogs are like people, they need rules and consistency so they understand what is expected of them. We will often ignore behaviours that are not desirable and reward for appropriate behaviours, An example of this is ignoring our dog when he jumps up, then rewarding him when all four paws are on the floor.

We may also choose to re-direct a behaviour. For example, if our dog steals something that could be harmful to them, we ask for the object and re-direct them to a more appropriate item. We also manage our dogs and their environment to assist them to get it right. For example, if our dog is getting into the bin, we may choose to put the bin in a cupboard or remove the dog's access from the bin. All sounds like raising a child doesn't it? Well, it's very similar. Dogs at best have the intelligence of a toddler. When we think of things in that way, it often changes the way we view our dogs and their learning.

We teach you ways to educate your dog to be a happy and well adjusted member of your household and society. In essence, we help you in the journey of raising your dog. Because we use only positive reinforcement training at Nutts About Mutts, we do not allow the use of Check/Choke chains, slip collars, prong collars or any other device that could cause serious harm to your dog and to the relationship with your dog. Instead, we mainly use soft collars of the buckle or clip type. In some cases, for dogs that are either a little reactive towards other dogs or those dogs who are very strong, we may suggest an appropriate head-collar or harness.