OK I am not a complete idiot when it comes to dog training nor am I a pro, however this is my first sch dog. I HAVE done major research on what methods I would like to use, in training my 12 week old pup. I can narrow it down to one name in the sport - Ivan Balabanov - I have seen his videos and have traveled to his seminars, his methods are what I would like to follow - to a tee.

Here is the issue, I have traveled FAR and wide up to 3 hour driving times from my house to find a sch club where I agree with the methods and helpers they use. sadly, I have not found a one <img src="http://www.leerburg.com/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> what do you do in my case? I think because I'm new at the club that I am visiting.. I have found that they don't respect my training wishes and I must conform to their ways if I want in the door. is it always like this for newbies?

I told my husband today that if we don't find a club, we might be doing all of the training ourselfs with lots of traveling to seminars.

Also, what is it with people so caught up in pedigree? and why does so much crap talk go on about breeders and trainers slagging each other?? I'm telling you,
it really put me off in the start while listening to people around me.

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........Here is the issue, I have traveled FAR and wide up to 3 hour driving times from my house to find a sch club where I agree with the methods and helpers they use......

Some posters ask for recommendations in their areas. Maybe if you mention your city, fellow enthusiasts can help.

Ok, Ontario CANADA ... preferrably within 2 hours "ish" in any direction from Toronto.

Have you emailed Ivan for any club recommendations? Another person to contact is Michael Ellis who has very similiar training techniques and is friend's with Ivan. He lived in NYC for several years and might be able to point you in the right direction.

Clubs and helpers each have their individual styles and methods, this is what is so interesting about dog training, and there is no one method for every dog, trainer, or club. I fail to see what a big difference there would be at 12 weeks; this is basic puppy learning exercises, all motivational. Since you are new and have never titled a dog, respect comes with time and patience. Talking dog training is different than doing dog training. Maybe you need to respect some of the other dog trainer’s that have shutzhund titled dogs too. If you think working dog trainer’s “slag” breeders maybe it could be that the trainer’s have seen and dealt with some of the less than adequate progeny for schutzhund work, and then the breeder’s are less than appreciative of trainer’s being too hard on their dogs. Hopefully your 12 week old pup will measure up to schutzhund or you may be another disappointed prospect. So join a club or group and learn as much as you can while using the methods you prefer, the proof will be on the trial field.

there is a yahoo group/discussion board that discusses ivan's methods and has grown to quite a a sizable group. ivan even pops in occasionally and offers a comment. if you don't already belong to this group, check it out. you might be able to make some contacts this way or get some tips for what to do on your own until you get settled in with a club or training group. if you can't find it, p.m. me and i will send you a link.

thanks ladies! Yes I have contacted Ivan still waiting for a reply. I am glad patricia you mentined that about the yahoo group, I didn't know. I found it today, I was so excited to see the lady who started the group actually lives in Toronto, about 30 mins from me!!! I sent her a e-mail to find out where she trains.. THANKS MEGA

There is also another club/trainer not far from me about 1.5 hrs, her name has been coming up a bit with people I talk to. I plan on visiting her once she gets back from Germany. Her name is Joanne Flemming-plumb??

Jackie,
Joanne is a top rated trainer and has placed very highly in the DVG Nationals for several years.
She was a student of Gottfried Dildei during his most successful years and is best know for her excellent tracking techniques.

She has a lot to offer and would be worth the drive.