Volunteer Resource Center
Volunteer Training Information
Supporting Information
Dog Walker Training - a 6-part series for Dog Walker volunteers.
START HERE
The following videos are Training and Games How-To videos, listed in the suggested viewing order:
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Marker Training - how to get a dog up-and-running on a marker - a must-have for consistent communication between human & dog.
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Marker in Action - marker in use.
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Name Game - create a positive association with a dog's name. Foundation for recall.
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Up Down - a relationship-building exercise where the dog cues the handler.
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Up Down in Action - see it in action.
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Two Steps - dog cues handler, great for dogs that need to move.
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1-2-3 Walk - an excellent strategy for keeping a dog occupied while moving from one place to another. Also foundation for loose-leash walking.
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Big Circle Walk - foundation for loose-leash walking, attention on handler, for dogs that need to move.
The following videos are highly recommended for all volunteers:
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Greeting Do's & Don'ts (when meeting a new dog) - examples of behaviors we humans do that can be very off-putting to dogs.
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Petting Consent Test - how dogs show us they want to be touched AND - more importantly - how they say "no thanks". It's subtle!
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Behavior Basics - a quick overview of how behavior "works" so you can apply basic principles on the fly.
Reactivity Support
A diagram showing effects of stressors on reactivity, and the body language associated with "climbing the arousal ladder" to send a dog over threshold.
3 main factors that contribute to dogs going over threshold.
For dogs that struggle with leash reactivity. Get out your high-value treats and start helping your dog feel differently about the triggers he encounters on your walks.
An easy exercise to help a shy/fearful dog learn that new people aren't scary - they predict deliciousness!
