Kinder, Gentler Training (NAPSA)—A new approach to dog training is based on a dog’s behavior and uses nonviolent techniques to win dogsover. The book, “Let the Dog Decide” (Marlowe and Co.) by pioneer dog trainer Dale Stavroff, is designed to help dog and owner develop an enduring bondof trust and cooperation. Until now, books on dog PN training have \ fallen into two wm theDog |) categories. ie maeos/ = The Revolutionary ovemeY Program to Train Your Dog— , TP) There’s punishment-based conqitioning, which uses a leash and ccote nd teny 2 Painful choke pale Stavorr OF Pinch collar, and can produce resentment and aggression. There are also books on clicker conditioning, a gentle advance in teaching animals positive associations, which can sometimes increase aggression in dominant dogs. Stavroff’s book offers a new approach. It explains why being the dog’s alpha pack leader—the basic prescription for classic conditioning books—is an unnatural role for a human being and ultimately a losing proposition for the dog and owner. It also takes clicker conditioning to a new level where the technique can be moreeffective. The techniques used by Stavroff accept the dog’s independent will, explain how benevolent eye contact can transform the doghuman relationship in a positive way, limit dependence on the leash and empower a dog’s decision-makingabilities. The book is available where books are sold. For more information on Stavroff’s techniques, visit www.precisiondogs.com.
