from THE DOG ATE MY HOMEWORK by Jan Irving (2015)
Reader level: average, plus
Review of content/advice: Chris has produced many DVDs and books over the years, based on (from her website) the “world-renowned and easy Three Foundation Games, which have proven to be the best way for preparing puppies to be outstanding pets, competitive partners, working dogs, or service companions. In addition, Chris shows you successful yet easy techniques and tools that effectively and humanely guide a pup’s behavior and manage his environment so problems can be prevented or viable problem solving programs can be implemented.” I have a number and have watched more (now in the Dogs Victoria Library) but can’t actually find the ones I bought specifically for myself to re-watch before writing this review. I know I was just about dropping off to sleep watching a workshop DVD when Chris produced her magic, which brought me back to full attention. The workshop videos are long but full of examples, but also fairly costly.
I remember I thought the DVD PUPPY KINDERGARTEN CLASS HIGHLIGHTS (which is over 2 hours long anyway) was probably the best example at a reasonable price to recommend.
Of the books, Chris herself suggests 1, 2, 3, Good Dog! as the starting point (again from her website) “If you are just learning about THE THIRD WAY, this is the perfect booklet to get you started! Learn the three simple building blocks to start your puppy or new dog out with an outstanding and proven foundation that guarantees the best possible beginning. Its easy-to-follow instructions are designed to allow first-timers as well as experienced trainers to effortlessly teach two quick and easy games which establish the life-longs connections that make any dog a “learning machine”! Next you will use three more games to give your dog foundation skills that will support and enhance everything you want him to learn for your future together. Also included to bring magic to your relationship and success to all your training objectives are suggestions for good guidance and proper management.”
Do I suggest you buy it? At least one of her titles
Table of Contents: 1, 2, 3, Good Dog!
CHAPTER ONE ~ THE THIRD WAY’S TWO LIFE-LONG CONNECTIONS
The Name Game
The Indicator
CHAPTER TWO ~ THE THIRD WAY’S THREE FOUNDATION GAMES
The Eye Contact Game
The Food Choice Method
The Crate Method
The Door Method
The Dinner Dish Method
The Tether Method
Preventing and Eliminating Undesirable Responses
The Proofing Game
Sit/Maintain
Proofing Sit/Maintain
The Collar Touch
The Greeting Game
The Greeting Game for Timid or Fearful Puppies
Chin Maintain
The “Stay” Cue
The Walk Away Game
Phase I
Phase II
Introducing the Verbal Cue
CHAPTER THREE ~ THE THIRD WAY’S THREE GOLDEN GIFTS
Good Guidance
Good Management
Give your Dog a Good Education
CHAPTER FOUR ~ THE THIRD WAY’S MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES
Confinement
Recipe for Crate Training
Recipe for Confining in a Room
Recipe for Tethering
Recipe for the Magic Carpet
Response Control
Recipe for the Floor Cord