by Amanda Crispel
The following is a discussion with ACD trainer Cappy Pruett on the topic of "Effective Corrections."
Question: What is a correction?
A correction is not punishment, but a negative stimulus for behavior that is undesirable. It should be quick, fair and to the point. It is the way we communicate to the dog that their behavior is undesirable.
Question: When is the dog most receptive to a correction?
The dog is most receptive at the time the behavior is about to start. You need to anticipate the dog's behavior, be inside their heads and one step ahead of them. This takes time and practice and loads of patience and understanding. This is the best time because the element of surprise helps to deliver the correction, but it should not be so great as to frighten the dog.
Question: Is timing important in delivering a correction?
Timing is everything. The dog is most impressionable while contemplating the act, not after it is done. Late corrections are less effective. If the dog grips and releases and then gets the correction, this is too late.. After the behavior is finished, the dog will not readily understand the meaning of the correction. Late corrections are seen as punishment, not a correction to modify behavior.
After a correction that the dog has responded to positively, immediately verbally praise and encourage the dog. This should not be overly excessive, you do not want to break the dog's concentration on the training. But it should be enough so the dog understands that they are doing it right.
Question: How often do I have to give a correction before it changes the dog's behavior?
Animals learn by repetitive training. Don't expect one or two corrections to immediately change the behavior. The number of times it takes to get through to your dog depends on the personality of your dog. Because of the pressure and excitement working livestock, it usually takes longer to change a behavior while working than with standard obedience training. The key is to be consistent and patient.
Question: Do ACD's respond differently to corrections than other dogs?
Yes. Some ACD's can withstand greater pressure from correction than other breeds. A novice handler may be tempted to over correct, thinking that they are not getting through to their dog. You first must understand why the dog is exhibiting the behavior. Then you must gauge the severity of correction needed. The level of severity can effect the dog at the moment and also further down the road in training. Be patient. Expect a response from the correction, but not a cure. Repetition at the right level will ultimately change the behavior.
Question: What are some types of correction?
Check with a choke chain using a long line or leash. Jerk the line parallel to the dog's spine, but do not pop the dog's back or hindquarters with the line. Don't jerk the dog's head away from the livestock.
Strong voice command.
Plastic rake for pushing the dog out. Anything that is wide and flat at one end. It is not a weapon. You are not beating your dog. Proper correction is from the ground up not the sky down. It should be quick, and well timed to get the best effect. Let the dog come to you for the correction. Don't go after the dog.
Question: What is inappropriate correction?
Venting frustration. If things are getting to heated up stop or do something you know the dog will be successful at.
Anything after the behavior has stopped.
Prolonged Correction. The correction should be swift and fair, to the point and not excessive.
Correcting for multiple behaviors. Focus on one behavior at a time.
Question: When is a training session over?
Try to end each training session with the dog having a measure of control over the livestock. Even in the worst of training sessions, if you can find the simplest of task or command for the dog to take and be successful, end the session here, on a positive note. And if at any point you feel you are losing control and your correction methods are not working, you should consult with someone with more experience.
Not all trainers can work with all dogs. Try to find one who can show you that they clearly understand your dog's behavior. Try to find someone who can work with you and your dog and help you gain the positive results you are after.