Boarding,

Doggie Daycare,

 Behavior Services

and Training

97 Millville Rd  Mendon, MA 01756

508-478-6390

Training and Behavior Consultations

"Building a stronger bond between you and your dog."


Daniel Antonellis CVT ABCDT
Canine Behavior Consultant and Trainer



We use proven modern techniques emphasizing positive reinforcement.

Daniel is both a dedicated dog owner and formally educated dog trainer.  He is dedicated to using training methods based on the principles of learning theory to ensure that training is safe and fun for both you and your dog

We offer: Obedience training, puppy training, pet manners classes, clicker training classes, private dog training, puppy socialization, in-home training,  group training classes, and board and train.

Customized behavior modification programs for behavior problems include house training, house soiling, dog aggression, human aggression, nuisance barking, children & dogs, destructiveness, chewing,  digging, jumping on people, multi-dog households, leash pulling, separation distress/anxiety, shyness, socialization, door bolting, running away, counter surfing, and just about everything else!

 

Can you train my dog for me?

We do offer a "board and train" jump start program for which we have provided more information below.

 

My dog is exhibiting aggressive behavior.

This type of problem usually won't go away on its own.  Each time your dog exhibits aggression, he is practicing it.  And the more you punish or scold your dog, the worse it will get.

I highly recommend a thorough veterinary exam to rule out any health problems that may contribute to your dog's aggression, including hypothyroidism.

I don't want to bribe my dog with food

When used correctly food rewards are not used as bribes, and they are systematically faded out so that your dog does not become treat dependent. A dog's behavior is driven by its consequences.  If a behavior is immediately followed by something valuable to the a dog, they will likely repeat that behavior (positive reinforcement). 

A behavior followed by a negative consequence (punishment) is not likely to be repeated.  However, there are many problems inherent with punishment.  The timing must be absolutely perfect so that your dog makes the correct association between the action and the punishment, and not something else.  This is more difficult to accomplish than it sounds.  The dog may learn that it is safe to practice the inappropriate behavior when you are not around, and may also learn that sometimes you are scary. This can damage the trusting relationship between you and your dog.

Positive reinforcement is a powerful and humane method for teaching dogs to eagerly do what is asked.  Food is often used as a reward because it is motivating and easy to dispense.  Dogs learn new things quickly when rewarded with great-tasting treats and praise. The principle is to motivate you dog to want to perform the behavior and then build it into their repertoire of behaviors.

Actually, effective rewards can take on many forms.  Use whatever your dog thoroughly enjoys.  Examples include a game of fetch or tug, a walk, a belly rub, or even a chance to chase a squirrel.  Using non-food rewards is highly encouraged, especially when you are fading out treats.  Your dog deserves to be rewarded in some way for working, just like you.

 

Board and Train Program

With our board and train "jump start program" your dog will stay with us for two weeks as a guest in our home, a beautiful, secure facility, where they will benefit from our attention and guidance.

During this time, they will be worked with on a daily basis, learning all of the important manners and habits that they need to succeed in your home. Because of the constant and consistent work, your dog will learn at a much more accelerated pace.

The program consists of:

14 calendar days of intensive training at our home facility, with formal training each day and additional informal behavioral modification, skills building, exercise, and play.

One 80-minute follow-up private training lesson is scheduled at the time you pick up your dog following the Board and Train session.

When you pick up, you will be supplied with a professional training equipment package, appropriate text books, handouts, and home training plan. We will review what he or she has learned, and teach you how to maintain the good behavior. You also will be invited to come back for two follow-up lessons within the first 2 months, included in the base price, to make sure that things are staying on track at home.

We start the work…..you and your family reap the benefits.

Developing a well-trained furry friend requires exceptional training and superior management. Let your dog come to “The PAWS Canine Behavior School,” to romp, play and learn.

After a Two Week Program your pooch is eligible to enter a discounted Maintenance Program. This can help keep your dog's behaviors polished or improve upon what they have already learned.

 

 

Consultation Fees

INITIAL CONSULTATION AND EVALUATION: 

At the first appointment, I will listen to your concerns, observe and interact with your dog, diagnose problems, help you set goals, and propose training options.  You will also be shown easy tips you can employ right away that will provide some immediate relief from annoying behaviors. 

Consultation Up to 75 minutes $105. Training options and appropriate discounted training packages will be presented based on the results of the initial consultation. Call for additional information.

 

Why we don't offer a guarantee

I realize that there are some training businesses that offer guarantees, but my view is that a dog is a living being, not an appliance.  Every dog is an individual and the success of ANY training program, no matter how good the instructor or materials, is dependent on the owner/handler’s interaction, relationship, amount of practice, and level of commitment. We at P.A.W.S. have no way to control these factors.

We are also aware that many of these guarantees have unmentioned policies or policies that are not abundantly clear to a client. So the guarantees are not honored, or due to the lack of effective methods taught to the client the client eventually gives up out of frustration or seeks a different trainer.

My goal is for you and your dog to succeed and I will provided you will a better understanding of canine behavior and behavior change techniques.

 

Daniel Antonellis CVT ABCDT
Canine Behavior Consultant
Certified Veterinary Technician
P.A.W.S. Canine Behavior School
www.pawscaninebehavior.com
(508) 478-6390