Our Ethics

L.I.M.A. for Dogs and Beyond

Your trusted canine companion deserves the best - and that's exactly what we aim to provide. Our approach to training is based on the renowned L.I.M.A. (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) model. This time-tested philosophy focuses on behavior change with the lowest risk of "side effects". As staunch L.I.M.A. advocates and professional behavior consultants, we're here to shield your furry friend from unnecessary or poorly timed punitive measures, also known as aversive stimuli, that may carry undesirable repercussions.

You might come across words like 'corrections', 'leash pops', or 'stim', — these are just sugar-coated terms for punishment involving physical discomfort. And believe it or not, such punitive measures could lead to heightened aggression, increased anxiety, suppressed behavior, and even new or intensified problem behaviors.

Not convinced? Get in touch and we'll happily provide you with decades-worth of peer-reviewed studies, including operant and classical conditioning research by psychologist B.F. Skinner. We're here to help shape your dog's behavior for the better.

At our training center, L.I.M.A. isn't an excuse to employ intrusive or aversive tactics. Instead, it's a competence-driven protocol designed to prioritize humane treatment, and above all else the bond between you and your companion. The manner in which behaviors are reinforced or punished plays a critical role in shaping future actions.

This commitment extends not just to our canine trainees, but to their human counterparts as well. Our expert trainers strive for continual learning, keeping abreast of the latest in animal behavior studies and best practices. After all, we believe in guiding you only within the realms of our proven expertise.

Together, let's usher in a new era of dog training where compassion reigns so the bond between you and your beloved pet strengthens. Let's embark on a journey toward positive behavior change, where every success is a shared celebration. Discover how the L.I.M.A. approach can turn the tide for your pet's behavior and well-being.

What it is NOT.

In an ever-changing world of professional dog training, it's easy to get lost. The spotlight often shines bright on punitive methods, but what if there was a kinder, more effective way? Welcome to the realm of reduced-error learning where we focus on maximizing success using positive reinforcement!

Now, this does not mean we are permissive and ignore undesirable behaviors while the dog is learning. That's not a very productive use of time! As trainers following the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (L.I.M.A.) approach, we use strategies that prevent and safely interrupt unwanted behavior—effectively reducing the old behavior while increasing the replacement behavior. With our clever no nonsense recommendations you can begin seeing a positive change immediately!

Unlike other trainers, we acknowledge that stressful things will happen in your dogs life. As part of every training plan we work to raise your dogs tolerance for stress and teach them how to escape a stressful situation using desirable behaviors that YOU chose. Navigating your dogs training journey doesn't have to be complicated, we're here to help you unlock the path to a harmonious, happy life with your four-legged friend.

Humane Hierarchy

The world of animal welfare can seem daunting. The good news? There's a standardized guide used by veterinarians and training professionals —it's called the Humane Hierarchy.

Steps to Humane and Effective Pet Care Practices:

Health, Nutrition, and Physical Factors: Start with a solid foundation—ensure your pet is in good health. Regular check-ups with a licensed veterinarian will address any potential medical or nutritional concerns. Don't forget to consider the physical environment as part of your training plan. Regular grooming and timely vaccinations are also an integral part of a dog's overall health. Poor health is a huge contributor to behavior!

Antecedents: Modify the circumstances leading up to the undesired behavior. This could involve changing the environment, altering motivations, or adjusting stimuli that trigger the problematic behavior.

Positive Reinforcement: Reinforce good behavior by promptly offering a rewarding consequence. This increases the likelihood of your dog repeating the desired behavior. A well-timed clicker training session can make a big difference here. Differential Reinforcement of

Alternative Behavior: Encourage acceptable alternative behaviors, while concurrently removing rewards that reinforce the problem behavior. Negative Punishment, Negative

Reinforcement, or Extinction: See below for in-depth explanations. Note that these methods are not listed in any order of preference.

Positive Punishment: Reduce the likelihood of the undesired behavior by introducing an unfavorable consequence upon occurrence.

A. Negative Punishment: Decrease undesired behavior by promptly withdrawing a positive reinforcer after it occurs.

B. Negative Reinforcement: Encourage good behavior by promptly removing an unpleasant stimulus when the desired behavior is exhibited.

C. Extinction: Eliminate the reward that's maintaining the problem behavior to decrease its occurrence or reduce it to baseline levels.

Dog training doesn't have to feel like a maze. With the Humane Hierarchy as your guide, you'll navigate it with confidence, clarity, and compassion. Questions about your pet's behavior? Don't hesitate to reach out!

Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare

Developed in 1965, the five freedoms are globally recognized as the standard in animal welfare: encompassing both physical and mental care. Veterinarians and shelters follow these five freedoms, why should behavior consulting professionals be any different? We believe they shouldn't and have devoted ourselves to the most humane care possible. Our trainers will never compromise these five freedoms!

Freedom from hunger or thirst

Freedom from discomfort

Freedom from pain, injury, & disease

Freedom to express normal behaviors

Freedom from fear or distress

We extend this same standard to our training classes, whether it's a puppy class, an obedience training program, or an agility course. With hands-on guidance, your dog will learn manners, how to behave well off-leash, and even master the Canine Good Citizen test. Remember, our aim is to shape behavior while preserving the well-being of your pet. Join us and discover the best in professional dog training techniques, in a supportive and rewarding environment.

Our Ethics

L.I.M.A. for Dogs and Beyond

What it is NOT.

Humane Hierarchy

Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare

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