Article: Training modifies dog's behavior, not personality

Dog trainer Ric Allen says he can't change what's in the dog's head, but he can change what he does about it.

With his wife, Vicki, a dental hygienist and also a trainer, he owns and operates the Northwind Kennels in Finksburg, Md. The couple train dogs in obedience and protection.

In obedience training, Allen uses simple praise, a correction system, consistency and practice. In protection training he also uses an agitator, and from this training he developed what he calls a dual personality dog.

"It is a controlled dog who will guard but will obey upon command; a dog who can be turned on and off guarding, one who can play with the same person he has just bitten," Allen said.

"It ...

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