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Virginia's Top Dog Training Centre

The Benefits of Balanced Dog Training: A Holistic Approach to
Canine Behavior

Introduction

Dog training is an essential aspect of responsible pet ownership. While there are various training methods available, balanced dog training has gained popularity for its holistic approach to canine behavior. The concept of balanced dog training, its benefits, and why it is an effective method for shaping well-behaved and happy dogs.

Understanding Balanced Dog Training

Balanced dog training is a comprehensive approach that combines positive reinforcement techniques with appropriate corrections. It focuses on establishing clear communication between the dog and the owner, emphasizing the importance of consistency, structure, and positive reinforcement to reinforce desired behaviors.

Stress-Free Training: Ask About Pickup & Drop-off!

DOG TRAINING SERVICES IN VIRGINIA

We do not have concrete runs. We do not keep dogs in crates other than to feed them or train them to be comfortable in a crate when needed.

Positive Reinforcement

One of the key components of balanced dog training is positive reinforcement. This method involves rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, or play, which motivates the dog to repeat those behaviors. Positive reinforcement helps build a strong bond between the dog and the owner, making training sessions enjoyable and effective.

Individualized Dog Training

Balanced dog training takes into account the individual needs and temperament of each dog. It recognizes that not all dogs respond to the same training methods, and therefore, a customized approach is necessary. Trainers assess the dog's personality, energy level, and specific behavioral issues to tailor the training program accordingly.

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Appropriate Corrections

While positive reinforcement is crucial, balanced dog training also recognizes the need for appropriate corrections. Corrections are used to redirect unwanted behaviors and establish boundaries. These corrections are not meant to be harsh or punitive but rather to provide clear guidance to the dog. They are used sparingly and in a manner that does not cause fear or harm to the dog. We use e collars with a patented technology from ecollar.com

Like a tens unit it delivers various stimulation levels to communicate and correct. The levels are from 1-100 with most dogs working level at a 6. It’s excellent for recall and off leash as well as low level corrections.

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Diet and Exercise

Good health is important for your dog’s wellbeing and behavior. At the farm they will receive an excellent diet and exercise program as part of training. We then teach you to maintain a healthy diet for your dog.

Addressing Behavioral Issues

Balanced dog training is particularly effective in addressing behavioral issues such as fear reactivity, anxiety, or excessive barking. By combining positive reinforcement with appropriate corrections, trainers can help dogs overcome these challenges and develop more desirable behaviors. The focus is on teaching the dog alternative behaviors and providing them with the tools to make better choices. We can not accept human aggressive dogs. If you need this we can recommend a trainer that specializes in this.

Long-Term Results

One of the significant advantages of balanced dog training is its focus on long-term results. By establishing a strong foundation of obedience and good behavior, dogs are better equipped to handle various situations and environments. The training instills confidence in the dog, making them more adaptable and well-behaved in different settings.

Communication and Education

We understand how important it is for you to feel safe and to be able to reinforce your dog’s training. Once your dog checks in you and your family are added to a WhatsApp group with our trainer and team. You’ll have frequent dialogue and weekly video updates to follow your dog’s transition. You can ask questions, discuss concerns and check in your dog. This chat remains even after your dog goes home. You can send us updates, videos and troubleshoot any issues that might arise. We are here for you.

Dog Training Packages

We offer a big discount for dogs signed up for Long Term Boarding (3 months and longer)

2 week board and train-

Perfect for dogs that need basic obedience skills. Heel, sit, stay and crate training . Price includes food, boarding and e collar. A face to face training session at pick up. Continued support on WhatsApp.

$2200.00

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4 week board and train

Everything in our 2 week program only longer. Also includes off leash recall, extended place and stay. This program is good for dogs that need more time. We work on distractions and some reactivity towards other dogs. Includes boarding, food and e collar. Especially good for nervous and anxious dogs.Y

$3200.00

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Private Cabin- Unsocial

Unsocial dogs with private cabin- $3600.00 first dog. $3000.00 additional dog.

Private Lessons @ Dancing Creek Farm

Private sessions are at the farm for 90 minutes. You buy a package of 4. Sessions are scheduled ahead of time.

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For a quote on this or to inquire about setting up a training package please fill out our reservation request form. It will ask questions about your dog and we will send you additional information.

Frequently Ask Questions

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From 3 days or longer. We are set up to provide long term and short term care. We even offer dog retirement and Pet Trust. Any situation that requires your dog to have exceptional care no matter the duration.

We offer private cabins for dogs who are dog reactive. We can not accept human aggressive dogs.

We are balanced dog trainers. Every dog is different. We use e collar with proper conditioning to communicate with your dog. Like a tens unit it sends signals to communicate or correct. Dogs are never harmed or punished in our programs. You’re added to a WhatsApp group to chat throughout their stay directly with the trainer. You’ll receive weekly video updates to watch your dogs transition. Family members can also be added to this chat.

Our staff is incredible. They spend time with all of the dogs. We have warm lavender towels, games and play in the pasture. There isn’t anything like Dancing Creek Farm.

We absolutely do! Long term boarding is discounted at a monthly rate for 3 months or longer. Military deployments we offer on a case by case basis.

We are not like traditional boarding. We have over 35 climate controlled cabins. Each has its own fenced yard. Dogs can freely go in and out any time. They have kuranda beds that are elevated with fresh blankets. They can share a cabin with other social dogs or you can reserve a private cabin.

Reviews

What Our Customers Saying

We used DCF for a short term board for our dogs, Cookie and Woody, while we were on vacation. I chose them based on the fact that they’d have their own climate controlled cabin and could go outside as needed in their enclosure, that wouldn’t be concrete pad. I love the fact that they had a fenced in pasture to run in and had attention and care from all the staff, as well as someone being on site 24/7. I also was able to see posts several times on Facebook of my dogs looking happy and healthy and enjoying vacation as much as we were. When I picked them up they were happy to see us…. Well, Woody was, Cookie was upset her nap in the AC was interrupted 😂, but both looked comfortable enough with staff that if they hadn’t seen us, they would have happily stayed. 100% will use their services again and will recommend to anyone looking for a boarding option.

Brooke Francisco

Dancing Creek Farm

Wish we could give them a 10! They took the best care of our doodle while we were away for 5 weeks last summer and another 2 weeks this year. She was happy and healthy, and we had peace of mind and could enjoy our vacation. She got to be outside, run, play, and made friends. They even drop off and pick up for a reasonable amount. If you have the ability to send your dog to dancing creek over pretty much any other boarding facility, we highly recommend it. We wouldn’t send our girl anywhere else.

Saket Nigam

Dancing Creek Farm

I have had easily the best experience with the people at Dancing Creek! I was nervous about leaving my Akita with anyone, but they went above and beyond for him. I signed him up for training as well and Cassie was amazing! My dog was much better behaved and I’ve had the easiest time walking him. They made sure to communicate as often as they could and I was not worried about him at all! Highly recommend dancing creek farm and we will be back no matter how far away we move from VA!!:) Thank you guys for everything!!!

Jo jimenez

Dancing Creek Farm

My babies were there for 5 months and they came back to me in better shape than I left them. Dancing Creek Farm took such great care of my dogs, that I am willing to make that drive (a days affair) for shorter stays as well. The dogs were well fed and exercised. They sent me pictures weekly and I could see how happy the dogs were. When I came to pick them up, they were happy to see me and I could also tell they were not in a hurry to leave because Dancing Creek Farm really became their home away from home. I will 100000000% recommend boarding your dog here .My dogs have two completely opposite personalities and they both enjoyed being there. They have their own cabin they can go in and out of as they please and also love that they do not just have a bunch of dogs together with only one or two people watching them. Thank you a million times !!!!

Freda

Dancing Creek Farm

Dancing Creek Farm was a true life saver to our family, providing a safe, loving and happy home for our lady Kona during a difficult transition while we relocated homes. We are so grateful for the amazing staff of DCF who constantly kept us updated with pictures, videos and messages. Dancing Creek Farm is a truly unique and amazing place.

Kristina Hadley

Dancing Creek Farm

Our dog Archie boarded at Dancing Creek Farm long term. I learnt to trust them to take care of dogs in most excellent way. We could always reach out to them to see how things are and got photos of our dog posted weekly on social media and sent over to us regularly. We got reports on what he eats, how he behaves, whether or not there is anything to take extra care of. I haven't got the words to describe how lucky we are to have found such place that offers outstanding boarding conditions, great care and fantastic staff. Thank you very much all of you. Keep up with the great work!

Kirill Sannikov

Dancing Creek Farm

We sent our shepherd, Gracie, to Dancing Creek, because she was skittish but headstrong. She would pull me around on our walks and was becoming very territorial and leash agressive towards other dogs. I can't say enough, what a differently behaved dog she is now. She is much more self confident and relaxed. We were just on a hike a few days ago, and encountered several other folks with their pups. Gracie bristled, but did not bark or lunge or even pull toward them! Her time at Dancing Creek was absolutely worth it!

Rev Melody McBride

Dancing Creek Farm

A truly one of a kind place- just amazing! My fairly anxious dog thrived there on a month long board and train- and came back home being able to walk loose leash for the first time ever. Listens better to our commands- and just finally seems really relaxed! Dancing Creek worked wonders with him! Cassie was a top notch trainer. Owners and staff are all compassionate dog lovers, plus have decades of experience in dog boarding, training, and canine nutrition. My dog came home looking and feeling great! Facility is clean, and well kept! And such a great layout for the dogs- especially love the big pasture where they can run and play !! Even though it is a few hour trek for me to get there—I would never board my dog with anyone else. Well done, Dancing Creek Farm!!

Terry Andrews

Dancing Creek Farm