This course details all the fundamentals of Michael's approach to obedience and the dog/handler relationship, and helps the trainer build the “toolbox” they will use throughout the training process. It covers classical and operant conditioning, reward-based teaching systems, and the use of verbal markers for communication. It also focuses on building behavior through luring, spatial pressure, “leash pressure,” and shaping, and we will also discuss the thoughtful introduction of aversives and the creation of motivation in your dog through productive play. Additionally, it also covers the foundation for focused heeling and the entire progression of establishing the recall.

The Principles of Dog Training II is a continuation of Michael Ellis’s first online course. The course picks up directly where the first course left off. In order to enroll in this course you must have taken The Principles of Dog Training I, or Obedience Intensive through the Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers.