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SFDOG's Educational Programs for Dog People
SFDOG has developed a series of publications and programs to help dog owners/guardians understand responsible dog ownership/guardianship and correct any behavior problems their dogs have. Our programs/publications include:
Park Petiquette Flyer (download here)
SFDOG produced a flyer outlining the simple things you can do to make your dog a good canine citizen, and providing information on trainers who can help you learn to control your dog. We post this flyer in San Francisco parks and distribute them to dog owners/guardians at various events.
Dog/Horse Socialization Workshop
SFDOG organized a workshop with noted animal behaviorist Dr. Ian Dunbar in which he discussed and demonstrated positive reinforcement techniques designed to ensure your dog does not over-react to the presence of horses. Follow-up workshops, run by local dog trainers, used Dunbar's techniques as dog owners/guardians worked one-on-one with their dogs and horses and riders from the SF Police Department Mounted Police unit. We plan to offer additional follow-up workshops this summer.
Park Petiquette Workshop
SFDOG developed a workshop to show dog owners/guardians how to correct the most common misbehaviors seen in parks (for example, not coming when called, or not obeying the "leave it" or "drop it" commands). Taught by local dog trainer, Beverly Ulbrich, the workshop consisted of a lecture, followed a week later by the opportunity for hands-on work with the dogs and the trainer. We did a pilot version of the workshop in Dolores Park, and plan to offer an improved version in other San Francisco parks soon.
AKC Canine Good Citizen Tests
SFDOG is organizing Canine Good Citizen Tests to be held in San Francisco parks. The CGC tests dog behavior in real-world situations, for example, allowing strangers to approach and pet the dog. CGC tests also include more traditional obedience skills such as coming when called, and holding a stay. Dogs who pass the CGC tests have proven they know how to behave and are under control when out in public.
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