S3 · E1Jul 13, 2025 · 1 hr 48 min
In this first episode of the "summer shorts" series, we look at puppy development from four professional trainers and their method. We kick it off with Ronnie and Suzanna Smith, of the Smith Method, looking at the importance of all things pup, with a special focus on keeping the end in mind and using "eustress" or good stress (stressors that have a positive solution) in the mental development of a young dog.
We continue on with George Hickox, of the Hickox Method, and focus on how using clicker training lays a foundation for mental and behavioral development in the life of a dog, by keeping it positive, marking behaviors, and more.
We then turn to The Method Dog Training, with Sonny Piekarz and Jordan Wells, looking at the importance of puppy development for the life development of the dog. Again we revisit the "problem-solving mindset" through their use of an obstacle course. As with all four methods, they talk about the value of puppy walks in the field.
We close it out with Perfection Kennels, with Jon & Jessica Hann, looking at the impact of exposure to new things in this time frame - puppy walks, early retrieve intro through games, playing in the water to build a pups confidence there, and more.
You will find some differences between the methods, and many similarities as the big themes hold true throughout. Building boldness, confidence, cooperation, problem-solving, and keeping it fun!
Resources:
For the Smith Method:
1) www.smithkennels.com
2) Instagram - @smithkennelsbirddogs
3) Facebook - @smithkennels
For the Hickox Method
1) www.georgehickox.com
2) Instagram - @georgehickoxbirddogs
3) Facebook - @GeorgeHickox
The Method Dog Training
1) www.haycreekkennels.com (Sonny) & www.jwellskennels.com (Jordan)
2) Instagram - @the_method_dog_training
3) Facebook - @themethoddogtraining
Perfection Kennels
1) www.perfectionkennel.com
2) Instagram - @perfection_kennels
3) Facebook - @perfectionkennel
