WHAT IS THE AFFECTION TRAINING METHOD (ATM)?

Conventional harsh training methods can be extremely detrimental to the sighthound or shy dog personality, sometimes even ruining the dog permanently. Affection Training–a method of communication where human and dog learn to interact together, to learn a common language, and to complement one another–is the perfect solution for these gentle temperaments.  You obviously want the best for your dog or you wouldn’t be reading this, and you may be experiencing some behavior problems that need addressing: chewing of furniture, difficulty in house training, excessive shyness or fear of people, children, or loud noises.  Perhaps you have just acquired a rescue dog or a new puppy who needs socialization and a guide for appropriate ways to live in a home with people, children and other pets. Virtually all of a hounds’ bad habits are caused, either directly or indirectly, by the dog’s owner due to a lack of understanding of canine behavior or as a result of inappropriate training techniques. In the saddest situations, the dog is given up as “unmanageable” due simply to the lack of communication between dog and human.  Your dog instinctively wants to please you–it is your responsibility to help him understand what you want him to do.

Affection Training is a holistic approach to dog training using positive reinforcement methods based on the concept of wolf pack behavior.  Even the tiniest, fluffy furball of a dog is essentially a wolf when it comes to behavior.  Dogs are social animals who love to be in groups–they need touching, group support and a strong leader.  The Affection Training Method uses the same concepts of control as those used by the leader of the wolf pack–visual and auditory communication methods.  You will learn how to communicate with your dog by using your eyes and your voice.  Your dog watches you constantly for clues on how you want him to behave; it’s up to you to be sure you’re giving him the right message.  Affection Training has proven to be a gentle, effective approach to solving problems in dogs of all ages.  Ideally, this training begins in puppyhood before the age of 16 weeks.  However, it is never too late to begin, although adult dogs who have already formed unwanted habits may require a little more time and patience to achieve the desired effect. Affection Training is a method in which you learn how to communicate with your dog by using your eyes and your voice.  The Affection Training Method is reward and praise based so it is fun for you and your dog.

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