We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Ian Dunbar

Dr. Dunbar's Off-Leash Reliability & Games Workshops have brought back some sparkle, some excitement, and some razzle-dazzle to pet dog training, all while helping owners achieve huge improvements in reliability with their dogs. Training your dog while off-leash in an exciting and distracting environment makes it much more likely that they will follow your instructions in other distracting situations as well.

Games are extremely enjoyable for dogs and they often bring out the best performances. Dogs are highly motivated because their owners are highly motivated, excited and animated.

Read more

Dr. Dunbar's Off-Leash Reliability & Games Workshops have brought back some sparkle, some excitement, and some razzle-dazzle to pet dog training, all while helping owners achieve huge improvements in reliability with their dogs. Training your dog while off-leash in an exciting and distracting environment makes it much more likely that they will follow your instructions in other distracting situations as well.

Games are extremely enjoyable for dogs and they often bring out the best performances. Dogs are highly motivated because their owners are highly motivated, excited and animated.

All of Dr. Dunbar's games are designed to improve the quality of the relationship between dogs and their people and each individual exercise or game is specifically designed to fine-tune essential ingredients of your dog's training repertoire. The prospect of playing games motivates owners to practice. For some owners, heeling and sit-stay homework is not very exciting, but many will stay up to the wee hours to practice for Doggy Dancing or Musical Chairs.

In addition, playing games is an enjoyable and non-threatening way to objectively quantify performance and fine-tune all basic obedience skills, including attention, position changes, stays, following, heeling, and precision work.

Turning training into games and quantifying responses with a stopwatch or tape measure, enables pet dog trainers to remind owners to celebrate with the dog each time they surpass a personal best. Nothing motivates owners more than when they see that they are improving, even with baby steps, and nothing advertises that you're a great pet dog trainer than the dog's progressive improvement.

Games make it easy and fun to quantify behavior and training, and quantifying your dog's responses allows you to prove whether or not your training methods are working, exactly how well they are working and when you surpass a personal best performance.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Approved for 12 continued education units from the ccpdt, iaabc & nadoi
  • Receive a certificate of completion (optional - available upon request)
  • Train their dogs to respond reliably, even when off leash, distracted and at a distance
  • Use games to motivate themselves, their dog and their clients
  • Quantify training progress to determine what dogs have learned and what training methods are most effective
  • Play musical chairs, doggy dash, dancing with dogs and more...
  • Proof stays for a wide variety of odd and unexpected situations that would otherwise cause a dog to break

Syllabus

Day 1
Day 1 Notes
Introduction
Video 1
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches advanced off-leash training techniques, including precision work, position changes, and odd and unexpected situations, which is highly relevant to professional dog trainers
Emphasizes the use of games to motivate learners and enhance the learning experience, which is beneficial for both personal growth and professional development
Provides quantifiable methods for tracking progress and evaluating the effectiveness of training techniques, which is useful for professional dog trainers to objectively measure and communicate the impact of their training
Taught by Dr. Ian Dunbar, a recognized expert in dog training, lending credibility to the course content
Approved for 12 Continuing Education Units from the CCPDT, IAABC & NADOI, indicating alignment with industry standards and recognition
Requires prior experience in dog training, as some concepts may be challenging for beginners

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Reliability and games dog training

According to learners, this two-day workshop offers a fun and effective approach to dog training, specifically focusing on building off-leash reliability in distracting environments. Students appreciate how the course uses engaging games to make training enjoyable for both dog and owner, simultaneously strengthening their relationship. The practical techniques taught are reportedly easy to implement immediately. While the workshop format is intensive, requiring dedication and practice outside the video content, the focus on quantifiable progress helps owners see tangible improvements. Overall, it's seen as a valuable resource for pet owners and professionals alike looking for positive, relationship-based training methods.
Requires focus and practice over two days.
"It's a lot of information packed into just two days, be prepared to stay focused and engaged."
"You really need to commit to putting in the practice time with your dog after watching the video material."
"This isn't a passive course; it requires active, hands-on participation with your dog to see results."
Techniques enhance bond and communication.
"Playing these games really strengthened the bond I have with my dog, we're a better team now."
"It's not just about getting compliance, it's about working together and improving our communication."
"I feel more connected to my dog through these fun, interactive training sessions."
Learn methods you can use right away.
"I could apply the strategies from the first day immediately and saw positive changes."
"These are real-world, applicable skills, not just abstract theory that's hard to implement."
"The focus on quantifying progress using simple tools helped me objectively see exactly what was working."
Build skills for reliable responses off-leash.
"Getting my dog to listen off-leash felt nearly impossible before, but these techniques gave me real hope and progress."
"Working in distractions during the games really helped proof behavior in a way traditional methods didn't for me."
"The concepts taught gave me much greater confidence to eventually try more off-leash activities with my dog."
Uses games to make training engaging and productive.
"Turning training into games made it so much more enjoyable for both me and my dog."
"I saw real progress in my dog's focus just by changing how we practiced with the games."
"The games provided a fresh and motivating perspective on obedience work, it didn't feel like a chore."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Reliability and Games 2-Day Dog Training Workshop with these activities:
Review Before You Get Your Puppy
Review the book 'BEFORE You Get Your Puppy' to build your foundational knowledge and understanding of pet dog training.
Show steps
  • Start by reading the introduction and first chapter to get an overview of the book's main points.
  • Read each subsequent chapter and take notes on the key concepts and techniques discussed.
  • Consider highlighting or bookmarking important passages for future reference.
  • Summarize the main ideas of each chapter in your own words to enhance your comprehension.
  • Complete any exercises or activities provided in the book to reinforce your learning.
Join a Dog Training Group
Join a dog training group to connect with other dog owners, share experiences, and receive support.
Browse courses on Peer Support
Show steps
  • Research and identify dog training groups in your area.
  • Attend a group meeting and introduce yourself.
  • Participate in group discussions and share your training experiences.
  • Offer support and guidance to other members of the group.
  • Organize group training sessions or activities.
Review AFTER You Get Your Puppy
Review the book 'AFTER You Get Your Puppy' to build your foundational knowledge and understanding of pet dog training.
Show steps
  • Start by reading the introduction and first chapter to get an overview of the book's main points.
  • Read each subsequent chapter and take notes on the key concepts and techniques discussed.
  • Consider highlighting or bookmarking important passages for future reference.
  • Summarize the main ideas of each chapter in your own words to enhance your comprehension.
  • Complete any exercises or activities provided in the book to reinforce your learning.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Training Plan
Create a personalized training plan to address your dog's specific needs and goals.
Show steps
  • Identify the desired behaviors you want to train.
  • Research different training methods and choose those that align with your approach.
  • Break down the training process into small, achievable steps.
  • Establish a consistent training schedule.
  • Track your progress and make adjustments as needed.
Practice Off-Leash Commands
Practice off-leash commands in a safe and controlled environment to improve your dog's reliability and obedience.
Browse courses on Off-Leash Training
Show steps
  • Choose a training area with minimal distractions.
  • Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, and come.
  • Gradually increase the distance and duration of the commands.
  • Introduce distractions such as other people or animals.
  • Reward your dog generously for every successful response.
Attend a Dog Training Workshop
Participate in a dog training workshop to enhance your skills and learn new techniques.
Show steps
  • Research and identify workshops that align with your training goals.
  • Register and attend the workshop.
  • Actively participate in the workshop and take detailed notes.
  • Apply the techniques learned in your own training sessions.
  • Connect with other dog owners and trainers to exchange knowledge.
Develop a Dog Training Business Plan
Develop a comprehensive business plan to establish or enhance your dog training business.
Browse courses on Business Plan
Show steps
  • Define your target market and services.
  • Conduct a market analysis to assess competition and opportunities.
  • Establish your pricing strategy.
  • Create a marketing and advertising plan.
  • Secure funding and legal aspects of your business.

Career center

Learners who complete Reliability and Games 2-Day Dog Training Workshop will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Dog Trainer
As a Dog Trainer, you will need to build a strong foundation in canine behavior and training techniques. Dr. Dunbar's Off-Leash Reliability & Games Workshops can help you develop the skills you need to train dogs to respond reliably, even when off leash, distracted and at a distance. You will also learn various games that motivate dogs and their owners, which can be used to reinforce training and build a strong bond between the two.
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary Technicians play a vital role in the care and treatment of animals. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs and other animals. You will learn how to train dogs, administer medication, and provide other care. The course may also be helpful for those who want to pursue a career as a veterinarian.
Animal Behaviorist
Animal Behaviorists study the behavior of animals, including dogs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to understand and modify animal behavior. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress. The course may also be helpful for those who want to pursue a career in animal welfare or research.
Dog Walker
Dog Walkers provide care and exercise for dogs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.
Pet Sitter
Pet Sitters provide care for pets in the absence of their owners. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.
Groomer
Groomers provide grooming services for dogs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.
Breeder
Breeders breed and sell dogs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.
Handler
Handlers train and show dogs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.
Judge
Judges evaluate dogs at dog shows. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.
Sales Representative
Sales Representatives sell products and services related to dogs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.
Marketer
Marketers develop and execute marketing campaigns for products and services related to dogs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.
Writer
Writers create content about dogs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.
Photographer
Photographers take pictures of dogs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.
Teacher
Teachers teach students about dogs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and guidance on dogs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with dogs. You will learn how to train dogs, use games to motivate them, and quantify training progress.

Reading list

We've selected 16 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Reliability and Games 2-Day Dog Training Workshop.
Save
Explores the two systems of thinking: System 1, which is fast, intuitive, and emotional, and System 2, which is slow, deliberate, and rational. Kahneman argues that we often rely too heavily on System 1, which can lead to errors in judgment.
Explores the different mindsets that we can have about our abilities. Dweck argues that we can all learn to have a growth mindset, which believes that our abilities can be developed through hard work and effort.
Save
Explores the importance of grit in our lives. Duckworth argues that grit combination of passion and perseverance, and it is essential for success in all areas of life.
Provides a sweeping overview of human history, from the Stone Age to the present day. Harari argues that humans are a unique species, capable of great good and great evil, and he explores the challenges that we face as we continue to evolve.
Challenges the idea that extroverts are always more successful than introverts. Cain argues that introverts have unique strengths that can be valuable in many different fields.
Provides a detailed overview of the challenges facing America in the 21st century, from economic inequality to political polarization. Lind argues that America needs to find a way to bridge its cultural divides and develop a more cohesive national identity.
Classic in the self-help genre, and it offers practical advice on how to become more effective in all areas of life. Covey argues that we should focus on our circle of influence, rather than our circle of concern, and he provides a set of principles that can help us to do this.
Guide to learning and improvement. Waitzkin argues that we can all learn to be better learners, and he provides a set of principles that can help us to do this.
Guide to spiritual enlightenment. Tolle argues that we can find peace and happiness by living in the present moment.
Self-help book that encourages readers to embrace their inner badass and live an awesome life. Sincero provides a set of exercises and affirmations to help readers overcome their self-doubt and achieve their goals.
Guide to escaping the 9-5 grind and living a life of freedom and flexibility. Ferriss provides a set of tips and strategies to help readers automate their income, outsource their tasks, and travel the world.
Memoir of Rubin's year-long experiment in happiness. She tried different strategies to increase her happiness, and she shares her findings in this book.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser