08/11/2026
This is a class we designed for our Immersion students, and here it is for the first time outside that format. It takes the key principles we cover in our core obedience courses and focuses them exclusively on companion dogs. A few of the main topics covered include…. Relationship: What is it and why is it important?
Engagement: A foundational principle, includes focus, readiness to learn, and value in handler.
Communication system for pet dogs (simplified markers and the importance of a conditioned punisher, as well as other forms of verbal and physical communication).
What is the appropriate level of motivation for a pet dog? When is less more?
What behaviors do we teach, and why?
What should the behaviors look like (criteria setting)
Black and white versus grey behaviors.
Goal setting (what does the dog/handler team need, and in what environments do they need to perform)
Developing interactive rewards (it’s not what you get, it’s the interaction)
How do we fade, or reduce the frequency, of rewards? When and how to transition from continuous to intermittent reinforcement.
Alternative rewards and alternative forms of feedback.
How do we shorten our timelines while still being fair to the dog?
Leash pressure and “layering” the leash over behaviors.
Combining luring and leash pressure for shortened timelines.
How and when to use negative reinforcement and negative and positive punishment.
Verbal cues versus physical cues.
Handling drills for grooming and vet visits.
Management for pet dog owners (an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure).
Conditioned Arousal and its role in allowing calmness.
Electronic collar work for the pet dog.
Do I want/need to be free of the tools?
Handler body language, energetics, tone of voice, and controlling arousal levels.
Should pet dogs play (tug/retrieve), and what are appropriate games?
Enrichment/Exercise for the pet dog (things for clients to do beyond obedience).
Biological fulfillment and its role in preventing behavior problems and making a happy dog.
The most important behaviors and more!
https://michaelellisschool.com/product/pet-dog-fundamentals-sept-2026/
