Frequently Asked Questions
What dog training services do you offer in Hobart and Southern Tasmania?
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I offer customised dog training services ranging from foundational obedience to complex behavioural modification for fear, aggression, and reactivity. Whether you are starting fresh with a new dog and want to build motivation, or you are struggling with unwanted behaviours, every program is tailored to give you and your dog clarity and confidence.
Are you a purely positive dog trainer?
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I use a balanced, scientifically backed approach. While 90% of what I teach relies on positive reinforcement (reward-based training), I also teach dogs clear boundaries using negative punishment (withholding a reward when an incorrect action is performed). Saying "no" simply means "that choice was incorrect, try another action to get the reward"—it is never an aversive experience. It helps to remember that in behavioural science, 'positive' and 'negative' aren't moral judgements—they simply mean adding or taking something away. For example, negative reinforcement just means releasing leash pressure the moment your dog makes the right choice, giving them instant relief and clarity. Positive punishment might just be adding a firm boundary or spatial pressure to stop a dangerous behaviour; when applied fairly, these concepts mimic how dogs naturally communicate with each other, providing clear guidance rather than fear. My goal is to make you the most engaging thing in your dog's environment, creating freedom through clear communication.
What makes your training method different from other trainers?
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I build fluid, customised training plans based on your dog's unique genetics, learned history, and personal characteristics. Rather than forcing your dog into a rigid, one-size-fits-all system, I assess the specific root causes of their behaviour. I teach you how to read your dog and adapt in real-time to make them the best they can be.
What does a "scientific approach" to dog training mean?
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My system is rooted in the two core scientific principles of learning: classical conditioning (Pavlovian) and operant conditioning. Classical conditioning changes how your dog feels—it targets automatic emotional reactions, like drooling when they hear a treat bag. Operant conditioning changes what your dog does by teaching them to make conscious choices to earn a reward. By addressing both, we can change both your dog's underlying emotions and their daily behaviour.
How long will it take to train my dog?
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The timeline depends heavily on your dog's genetics, age, and how long they have been rehearsing the unwanted behaviour. Ultimately, my goal isn't just to train your dog—I will teach you how to train your dog. Think of dog training like going to the gym: doing 3 to 5 minutes of focused training every single day will yield much faster, more reliable results than trying to do one long session every few weeks. Consistency is the fastest path to success.
Where does the training take place?
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I provide tailored training sessions throughout Hobart and Southern Tasmania. Depending on your dog's specific needs and behavioural goals, training can take place in your home, in your local neighbourhood, or in controlled public environments where we can safely work on real-world distractions.
Ready to transform your dog's behaviour?
Book a Consultation or give me a call to see how I can help