Staying Present.  We focus on the current moment and avoid distractions.  This helps us better understand the puppy’s behavior and respond appropriately to guide the puppy's energy into a secure, loving space.  We have dedicated training stations for each stage of the puppy’s development.

Practicing Patience.  Puppies take time to learn, so being patient with their progress is essential.  We avoid over stimulation to allow them to progress at their own pace.  We provide consistent short training sessions to maximize their attention spans.

Embrace Positivity.  With every step of the puppy’s journey we create a positive and peaceful environment for both of us as handlers and the puppies.  Whether it is in their nursery, in our development room or out in the play yard.  We use rewards such as praise, love and encouragement to reinforce good behavior.  

Avoiding Force or Punishment.  Instead of using harsh training methods, we only use positive reinforcement techniques.  We reward desired behaviors while gently redirecting or ignoring unwanted ones.  We start with love and affection as the rewards when they are small and add food, rubbing, verbal and excited tone rewards as they progress.  

Maintaining Consistency.  We are establishing a consistent routine and training schedule from the day they are born.  This helps the puppies understand expectations and reduces confusion.  This sets the puppies up to learn quicker and establish a puppy that is in training mode not resistant mode when they are ready to go home.

Using Mindfulness Techniques.  We incorporate mindfulness techniques like deep breathing and visualization to stay calm and centered during challenging training moments.  As we desensitize the puppies we create a calm, safe space for them to grow their bravery and remain calm admits new loud sounds and frustrating obstacles.  We purposely add strategy trainings that asks the puppies to figure out obstacles that are mildly frustrating.  This allows us to help the puppy to remain calm and use their thinking brain to figure out the training instead of using their emotions.  

Practicing Relaxation Exercises.  We teach our puppies relaxation techniques, such as remaining calm while placed on their backs, settling on our laps or practicing calm behaviors while in trainings.  This helps them develop self-control and a relaxed demeanor.  Of course, then it is always followed up by fun play time.

Our Zen approach is always based on positive reinforcement and building a strong bond with each and every puppy.  By using our Zen mentality, we can create a harmonious and effective training experience for both us and every single one of the animals on our ranch.