Koehler Dog Training FAQ Sheet

What does Koehler Dog Training do?

We are an instructional business providing dog training; in class, private, group, and seminar formats. We also provide specialized training for the professional end user. The business is owned and operated by Dick Koehler and Tony Ancheta. Click on the name for biography and contact information.

How can Koehler Dog Training help me?

We maintain a registry of trainers who represent The Koehler Method of Dog Training accurately, and responsibly (access to this list follows). By using their services your dog will learn to accept that he is accountable for his mis-behaviour and, at the same time, responsible for his own good behaviour. You learn to recognize that your dog is a living, breathing, choice making animal capable of such understanding. In about 10-13 weeks your dog will demonstrate this understanding by performing the following exercises: Heel, come, sit, down, stand, and stay...both on, and off-leash, in conditions of high distractions.

How will my dog and I learn these things?

All programs, whether they be for ring, field, professional service dog, or family pet start with teaching you The Koehler Method of Dog Training (by W.R.Koehler).

Mr. Koehler developed the method in class format in 1946. In 1962 he published the book by the same name. It is currently in it’s 39th printing and has never been revised (if it works...don’t fix it). An approved trainer will teach it to you uncut, uncensored, and uncompromised by today’s petty insecurities; taught exactly as it was meant to be taught...to the direct benefit of the dog.

How does the Koehler method differ from other methods?

First, it is not premised on the wrong notion that your dog has an innate willingness to please you (or anyone else for that matter). I often see a dog dance for a cookie and listen to the owner rationalize that this clearly demonstrates his dogs willingness to please. Wrong! I see a dog who has learned, that by performing this act, he can persuade a tidbit right out of the owners mouth; exactly who has been trained? Second, since today’s dogs are the direct result of man’s manipulation of nature, we profess that mankind has a moral obligation to provide for the good care of the animals we have "engineered". This includes providing the dog with trained skills which will allow it to enjoy the same life standards we pursue.

Is the method right for my dog?

Any dog who is a member of the canine family will benefit. It does not matter that the dog is timid, shy, aggressive, willing, unwilling, hard, soft, the family pet, or the cop’s partner, he is still a member of the canine family and there are certain psychological constants that are uniformly recognized and easily modified to suit our goal...a well behaved dog.

I have heard that the Koehler method is harsh, is this true?

There is nothing harsh about what we do. "Strict" may be a better criticism and I suppose that there are those who find the ten commandments too strict. As for our training, let’s ask the dog; Fido, the neighbors are complaining that your barking is keeping them up at night. Our attempts to train you have obviously failed. We must now choose to have you surgically debarked, give you away, put to sleep, or find someone who can teach you not to bark indiscriminately; this time, you get to choose. When given these choices your dog would probably opt for the temporary discomfort of the training over the permanance of the other options. And "giving him away" is an act of absolute irresponsibility.

What problem behaviours can we expect to correct?

Biting, fighting, barking, howling, digging, chewing, escaping, molesting or killing livestock, jumping on people, cowering from people, shyness, etc., etc..

Exactly how do you correct for such problems?

There is no magical answer to solving these problems. It takes time, patience, and an understanding of the problem and the solution. Some problems are extinguished, while others are managed. But, all problems are resolvable once your dog understands his new responsibilities. You may want to click on the pattern of learning screen to learn more about the dynamics of our training.

How do I enroll ?

An orientation is given at the beginning of each class. You will see a demonstration and a complete presentation of the program. If, at the end of that orientation, you are prepared to make the commitment to train your dog, you can enroll.

How can I locate an approved Koehler Method trainer?

Simply click on the List of Trainers and locate one near you. If you cannot find one, then go to our Bookstore where you will be able to purchase the book and the handout sheets used by our instructors. Many more items are also available there for your training needs.