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Mapleton Bark

Education . Compassion . Respect.
On this page you will find the answers to some frequently asked questions, as well as links to outside educational resources.

​If your question is not here, or you would like more information, please never hesitate to reach out!
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CONTACT US

What is Positive Reinforcement (R+) Training?
​

Positive reinforcement is the addition of a reinforcer (treats, toys, praise) to mark and encourage the repetition of a desired behaviour. It operates on the principal that rewarding behaviours are repeated, and ignored behaviours will diminish.

Below is a link to an easily digestible article breaking down R+ Training: 
www.companionanimalpsychology.com/2017/02/what-is-positive-reinforcement-in-dog.html

Positive Reinforcement Training is science based. Read the 'why' at the link below:
www.companionanimalpsychology.com/2017/04/new-literature-review-recommends-reward.html?m=1&fbclid=IwAR1OyfFONizXrxQSi_kjgIUiMfcRjbCWb1P0sCnrgf_OSH4Wf5ujUhW9QSw

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We adhere to LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) methodology as outlined below by the CCPDT:
www.ccpdt.org/about-us/least-intrusive-minimally-aversive-lima-effective-behavior-intervention-policy/#:~:text=LIMA%20is%20an%20acronym%20for,training%20or%20behavior%20change%20objective.

What do I need to bring to class?

In addition to your dog and a positive attitude, you will need a standard 6 foot leash, a flat buckle collar, and treats.

​Additional gear that is recommended is a bait bag and a well fitted harness. Training collars such as prong, electric, or slip are not permitted in class, and such aversive tools are never recommended. Flexi leads are also not suitable for classes. 

If you would like support choosing the appropriate gear, please reach out, we are always happy to help! 

Do you ever use aversive tools in your training such as prong or e-collars?

No. Science has shown that the use of these tools is not only linked to behavioural issues, but go against what we strive for in our fear free training philosophy that revolves around teaching of behaviours we want, instead of simply masking the behaviours we don't. 

Please check out the links below disproving 'Alpha Theory':
www.whole-dog-journal.com/behavior/debunking-the-alpha-dog-theory/?fbclid=IwAR385EU-brgTGPB5nAUXtbjkgVFollVr5lXp6BtGjelWqyaRyK0lSYa6jLs

​www.animalhealthfoundation.net/blog/2017/10/the-myth-of-the-alpha-dog/?fbclid=IwAR0wrMiurlQyxAYp5xabDFuuM19aiuUvZMNjx0g0axOJvYPX6hfQrk4-PpU

Am I always going to require treats?

No, as your dog becomes more fluent in the behaviours you are requesting, you will be able to wean down the number of food rewards to focus on the strongest offered responses. That said, these reinforcers are your dogs paycheck, and we all like to be paid for our hard work. 

What if I miss a class?

If you miss a class, you are welcome to make it up during the next suitable session if there is space to accommodate your dog. If the class was cancelled by the instructor, it will be rescheduled for a later date. If you would prefer to transfer to a private session, you are welcome to pay the difference to facilitate that.

If you need to reschedule a private session, please give at least 24 hours notice. No shows will not be refunded, and if a package was purchased, it will count as a full lesson.

What is your refund policy?

Once you have submitted registration and payment for a class, it is non refundable. If you are unable to attend your class session for any reason, you are welcome to transfer to another suitable program, or apply the amount to other services.

Do you offer virtual classes?

At this time we are offering virtual consultations, but have not adapted classes to an online format. 

Additional Resources:

Enrichment


shaysdogblog.com/2018/03/11/10-ways-to-improve-your-dogs-life/?fbclid=IwAR35iHzH3jX7XEly-ujsGPS6lYDFkHw4KHqHwn4l9dkFQn3IHxZEajXw5BI

www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/fellow-creatures/202004/why-dogs-happiness-not-obedience-is-what-counts?fbclid=IwAR1l0o8yXR_mwsmLG2aOWfXGaaADNcnrZh7hjHKjJDKgjkYcIDbFc5GJ58Y

thebark.com/content/dogs-chasing-laser-pointers?fbclid=IwAR0a2YijE2fAkqksPZZJrVhVEqMGxRAOherNqSnGbRUU7B8yLdvzU7rpbJI


Studies on Early vs Delayed Spay and Neuter

www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.00472/full

www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.00388/full

Before Getting a Dog

www.behaviormatters.academy/blog/2020/7/25/kids-and-dogs-scenarios-to-consider?fbclid=IwAR35iHzH3jX7XEly-ujsGPS6lYDFkHw4KHqHwn4l9dkFQn3IHxZEajXw5BI

www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fellow-creatures/202008/you-arent-dog-and-other-surprises-dog-ownership?fbclid=IwAR36imT--8MmDVRk3ag79IWN0qMDGBRkmP_mW3AwWoktKbm7EZ2EMj2FvBk

"Dogs don't need adversaries, they need advocates."
Shay Kelly
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