Scientifically Proven Methods

Positive Reinforcement training isn't new or a fad, in fact it has been around for almost half a century. Enlightened trainers have recognized the rewards of using these methods, which are highly successful for not only any breed of dog, but are easily implemented by the most novice of handlers.

A visit to Sea World might help you understand how this gentle yet effective method has been used. Watch the Seals, Dolphins and Whales being trained, and their sheer joy whilst performing for enthralled audiences.

Even contemplating using physical or verbal aversives on these beautiful creatures would be a complete waste of time, as you may be smartly shown a tail fin, while they are free to deep dive, and leave you to ponder your thoughtless actions.

Critical Period

For puppies to learn how to get along with other people and dogs, both now and when they mature, early socialisation is imperative.

The critical period of socialisation, is from three to thirteen weeks of age. During this period puppies are learning about not only their litter mates and humans, noises, travelling, objects, smells, sights and sounds of the big wonderful world, they are learning bite inhibition. I cannot overstate the importance of this education.

Every puppy should be given the opportunity to attend Puppy Pre-School. Owners need to be educated about the importance of developmental deadlines, so that the chances of behavioural problems arising in these puppies as older dogs, can be greatly reduced if not eliminated altogether.

Relationship

To successfully build or improve a relationship, trust and understanding are the foundation. Positive Reinforcement Training is not only gentle & effective, but fun for owners and their pets.

Our goal is to enhance the role of your pet as a family member.

Bond of Trust

We believe training should be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your dog. To this end, there must be a mutual bond of trust and respect between you and your dog in order to get the most enjoyment and fulfillment from your relationship.

Start your puppy on the right paw to building that bond, with our Puppy Pre-School and Puppy Fundamentals Clinics.

Problem Behaviour

Problematic behaviours are addressed and solved by working through them in a realistic manner, that is not only easy to implement, but is personalized for each dog, owner and lifestyle.

Our goal is to enhance the role of your pet as a family member.

Management Skills

Proper management is paramount for success. Lack of management often results in a frustrated owner implementing punishment and coercion. This is not only unnecessarily cruel to your dog, it is destroying the trust in your relationship. If your dog is an escape artist, installing a tethering ring near the front door would be a wise option. If they like to raid the garbage, get a bin with a lockable lid.

Taking a "preventative" attitude will not only prevent unwanted behaviours, it will help keep your sanity intact, and you will be setting your dog up for success rather than failure.

Committment

At Absolutely Fabulous we are committed that each dog and handler receives essential individual attention.

This commitment ensures that when you attend a training clinic, you clearly understand what you are teaching your puppy, so that you may continue to set your dog up for success during your practice sessions at home.

Communication

Clear communication is the key to a trusting and loving relationship with your pet. Learning "Dog Speak" empowers you to achieve your goals with kindness and rewards, rather than forcing your pet into compliance through fear and intimidation.

Rewards

Motivational or reward based training has been clearly proven to be highly successful when teaching many species of animals.

Establishing a high value reinforcer* for your pet, involves trying various treats and toys and forms of praise and attention, to find which best suits you and your pet.

* Reinforcers = Play, food, freedom, stroking/patting

Understanding and Listening

At Absolutely Fabulous we are always listening. Linda's experience coupled with working closely with our clients, enables us to understand you and meet your pet's needs and requirements.

Goals

At Absolutely Fabulous your goals are our goals. By setting realistic targets throughout our training clinics, we aim to keep you motivated, as your goals become realities.

About The Trainer

Linda has been offering training since the early 1980’s, initially instructing with a large public obedience club. She purchased her first dog – a Border Collie in the late 70’s and together they were awarded the prestigious honour – First Border Collie in Victoria to achieve both Australian Show Champion and Utility Obedience Dog titles.

The writing was on the wall at this early stage; working with dogs was not only Linda’s passion – it was her destiny.

Her devotion to the dog world, hunger for knowledge and hands on experience, were realised as she achieved her V.C.A. Instructor’s License. This was quickly followed by Linda being awarded Novice, Open and Utility Judges Licenses, making her a Full Panel Obedience Judge. Both Agility and Endurance Licenses were attained shortly thereafter.

A founding member of both the Border Collie Club of Victoria, and the Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog Club of Victoria saw Linda’s experience expand at club management level. Having served on various committees for Breed, Obedience, Agility and Endurance for many years have rounded out her knowledge and understanding of the dog world in general.

Linda has helped thousands of dogs and their owners building strong relationships based on trust, communication and love.

Many Absolutely Fabulous clientele are referred by either professionals in the pet care industry or by word-of-mouth from satisfied pet owners!

Critical Period

For puppies to learn how to get along with other people and dogs, both now and when they mature, early socialisation is imperative.

The critical period of socialisation, is from three to thirteen weeks of age. During this period puppies are learning about not only their litter mates and humans, noises, travelling, objects, smells, sights and sounds of the big wonderful world, they are learning bite inhibition. I cannot overstate the importance of this education.

Every puppy should be given the opportunity to attend Puppy Pre-School. Owners need to be educated about the importance of developmental deadlines, so that the chances of behavioural problems arising in these puppies as older dogs, can be greatly reduced if not eliminated altogether.