Our Puppy Preschool Starts Your Pup Out Right!

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Not only is Puppy Preschool fun but it prevents problems before they become bad habits!

Raising a puppy right is where it all begins. Our trainers are fond of saying that new puppy owners have one chance to do it right. Properly structuring the first 4 months with your new puppy is critical to forming the puppies mental state and social skills. The time will fly by so every day counts!

House training, obedience, and socialization are super important from 8-16 weeks. Critical socialization wraps up around 4 months of age so don’t let your pup miss out on this very important developmental stage. The Kabler School for Dogs training campus in Asheville and Columbias in home training service provides a safe environment to focus on your new pups socialization skills!

At Kabler School For Dogs we offer an excellent Puppy Preschool Course that is designed to assist you in puppy obedience, socialization, tricks, games, house training, and more! We will focus on puppy manners and address any behavioral problems that may arise. You will learn how to properly handle your new pup and practice obedience routines that are fun and create excellent communication.

Call us today or click here to sign up for a free consultation and evaluation!

Asheville Location: (828) 337-5792    Columbia Location: (864) 704-5981

What Makes Kabler Training Stand Out From the Pack?

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Blue Heeler Boomer and his guardian practice puppy obedience exercises in class.

This is such a great question that I get asked often. I am thrilled to share all that I’ve learned about dogs and their training with my human and canine clients alike. Training at Kabler School For Dogs is comprehensive and makes raising and training your best friend rewarding and so fun! Here are a few reasons that my training stands out:

• Over 20 Years of Training Experience. I founded Kabler School For Dogs in 1995 and have been fully immersed in the experience of training dogs ever since. I specialize in creating harmonious relationships between dogs and their guardians. I raise pups into superbly trained adults with maximum personality by taking my time with each individual dog and family I work with. Many of my clients find their way to me after having tried other training schools to no avail. I’m well known and referred by veterinarians for being able to train even the most difficult behavioral cases successfully. I get excited about my clients training courses and it shows!

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Goldendoodle Zeppi practicing some fun games after obedience on the Kabler training field.

• An All Life Stages Approach. At Kabler School For Dogs I specialize in raising puppies into well trained adult dogs. It is incredibly important to understand that raising a dog properly takes 1.5-2 years from pup to a fully trained adult. Choosing a trainer that will guide you and your dog through each stage of this journey makes all the difference. Your dogs puppy stage lasts until 5-6 months and my teaching focus during this time is on socialization, games, basic obedience, and house training. The yearling stage is from 6-12 months and I emphasize training activities that deepen the bond between you and your dog. This is the time when we build your dogs ability to retrieve and play interactive games. I enjoy teaching swim classes during this stage to ensure a lifelong love of water.  We gently guide your yearlings house manners in a positive direction daily. While it is important to teach yearlings the foundations of obedience, it is critical not to push the yearling too hard in training. Methods that impatiently train a 6 month old the same as an adult are asking too much. These rushed courses create an inhibited personality that permanently dim your dogs love of life. I like to wait to begin adult stage dog training when your dog is full-grown at 12 months. The focus is on taking the obedience training to an advanced level of accomplishment. Kabler trained dogs happily work with precision out in real world environments like busy parks and outdoor cafe’s.

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Yellow Lab Arlo and his family out practicing his walk during an off leash training session.

• Progressive Training Method. My approach is flexible and changes based upon the needs of each dog I work with. I specialize in customizing the training methods I use so that each dog excels in their training. Many of my clients have tried and failed with other training methods that use a one size fits all approach. All dogs are unique, with different temperaments, personalities, and breeds. Dogs are living breathing members of our family and training should be fun, flexible, and move at your dog’s natural pace.

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Collie/Pyrenees rescue Kona getting started with her obedience in the Kabler training studio.

• Hands On One-on-One Learning Environment. At Kabler School For Dogs you and your best friend learn by performing experiential training exercises that build teamwork. Coming to my studio for lessons gets your dog used to going places and provides a learning environment that allows your dog to excel. As your dog progresses and gains skill we will begin taking training walks around my active neighborhood; we then begin to explore busy parks and city streets. I believe in starting training in a low distraction environment and progressing to higher and higher levels of distraction at your dogs natural pace. My training courses emphasize hands on experience and at the end of each one of my training sessions I give written homework so you know exactly what to be working on each week at home.

• Extra Lessons Guarantee. My extra lessons guarantee is attached to all of my qualified adult training programs. At Kabler School For Dogs my clients are purchasing the results of the training, not a set number of sessions. All of my courses are backed up by my time and commitment to your dogs training.

All of my courses begin with a free consultation so I can assess your dog’s temperament, behavioral concerns and training needs. Please call me and find out more about my unique approach to training family canine companions. -David

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German Shepherd Leo playing a game of retrieve during an off leash session.

Summer Swim Season is Here!

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Fury water retrieving in paradise.

Teaching your dog to swim is super fun and is an excellent way to exercise your four legged companion. When I was 12 I taught my Yellow Lab pup, Duke, to retrieve in the ocean and in my grandparents swimming pool; much to their behest. I even taught him to leap off the diving board. I would pretend he was a swim rescue dog. He enjoyed towing me through the water, pulling me toward the stairs or shore, during my mock rescue scenarios. Duke and I would swim for hours together.

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Fury racing from the swimming hole with his frisbee during a water retrieve.

Today, I still love taking my clients dogs swimming to cool off from the Summer heat. Many athletic dogs will benefit from swimming as it works the dog’s body, mind, and spirit. There is a unique feeling I get, that’s like no other, after going swimming with my dog. As you strive to teach your best friend to become a confident swimmer, it is important to keep some safety tips and training approaches in mind.

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Rose and her guardian playing some fetch at the waterfall.

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Yearling Residency graduate Rose retrieving her tennie.

Practice swim safety by using a long line on the novice swimmer. Always keep a close eye on your dog and don’t allow the long line to become entangled on anything. Beginner and advanced swimmers alike will benefit from wearing a canine life jacket. If your dog swims in a pool or rocky swimming hole, it is critical to repeatedly teach your dog where the stairs or safe exit from the water is.

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Huck’s guardian playing a game of retrieve during an off lead swim session.

Always be ready to jump in the water yourself to assist your best friend if necessary. Avoid forcing your dog into the water. Rely on a slower approach, and grow your dogs confidence around the water. Just like people, dogs learn through experience. So be sure to keep your dog safe and enjoy every minute, allowing each trip to the water to build upon the last.

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Ollie learning to charge it while retrieving his toy during a Yearling swim session.

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Teaching Ollie to love the water during his Yearling training course.

Teaching your dog to swim is always easiest as a pup, and during the yearling phase, but with practice almost all dogs can learn to swim. Begin with small shallow stream crossings and slowly progress to water that is chest deep for your dog. If your dog loves to retrieve, this energy can be of great help to encourage your dog to love the water. I prefer short and fun excursions to swimming spots at first so that it keeps your dog craving more.

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Off Lead Residency guest Cato taking a late season sunset swim.

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Gus’s Guardians using his favorite toy to encourage him into deeper water during a Yearling course swim session.

I teach a swimming class during Spring, Summer, and Fall months for clients who are enrolled in my training courses. There is nothing I love more than watching a dog who confidently loves the water. -David

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Elder dog Daisy helps to socialize young Fury to the water.

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As Fury’s water confidence grows the distance of his retrieves also become greater.

Training is About Creating Aligned Energy

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Dobie Lucy joyfully playing a game of retrieve during an obedience session with David on the Kabler training field.

Creating cooperative energy is a top priority during my training classes for pups, yearlings, and adult dogs. When you and your dog have shared goals- this is what I call slipping into alignment with your best friend. Aligned energy expresses itself in many ways.

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Lucy and her guardian practice an aligned walk with a loose lead.

Through obedience it can be seen when your dog is walking politely and happily on a loose leash, pacing themselves to their human guardian with a skip in their step; or during a long stay when the dog is focused on their human while enthusiastically following through with their request. During play, aligned energy is evident during games of retrieve and tug. When you and your dog are flowing together, in tune, with clear communication, then you know that aligned energy is present. During my training classes these moments are created exercise by exercise, cultivated and grown, into a shared way of life between you and your four legged companion. During a Kabler School For Dogs training course this aligned energy becomes ever present in the relationship between you and your dog.

-David

Call (828) 337-5792 to schedule a FREE consultation.

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Lilly practicing a motivational recall request– look at that guardian focus!

An Exciting Year of Training Dogs

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Call (828) 337-5792 now to schedule your dog’s FREE consultation

with Master Trainer David Kabler.

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Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever pup Reagan.

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Reagan is a perfect puppy– found through the Kabler Breed Search.

The year started out right when I helped a client find her dream dog. After meeting with the guardian, and discussing her lifestyle and breed preferences, we determined that she was looking for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever puppy. Working together we located several breeders that might provide a suitable candidate for her new companion. I called the breeders on our list and politely questioned them about their breeding programs and explained exactly what we were looking for– after several calls we located the perfect litter and made arrangements for purchase and transport. The pup that arrived had the perfect temperament. Breeder selection is incredibly important when buying a pure bred dog. Things to avoid are puppy mills and novice breeders who may not understand all that goes into responsible breeding.

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Shadow greeting the video store clerk for a reward on one of our outings.

Later in January, I received an urgent call from a prospective client. She had just adopted a 6 year old German Shepherd Dog named Shadow. “I just picked him up and took him to the veterinarian and it didn’t go so well”. “What happened?” I asked. “He bit the Doctor in the crotch.” She dropped Shadow off that day for his Kabler Residency training program. I had an incredible time teaching this strong willed, dominant older male to successfully follow through with his obedience requests. He was very stubborn about his down request and it took me about a week and a half to win him over and get him to down for me. Going slow like this is the best approach for older dogs, especially older rescues who may have found themselves homeless when they exhibited one too many problems. By the end of the program Shadow was my constant companion around the house and on outings to parks and restaurants. His guardian called me after our private go home session so excited about the results of his training. He has been a perfect companion dog ever since with no more problems on trips to the veterinarian.

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French Barbet Truffles practicing his down stay request during his Kabler Residency.

In 2013 I helped a relatives family locate a Barbet puppy. They named the pup we found Truffles and he was a year old and now ready for his Residency Training. This is a rare French breed that has been winning people over with their exceptional personalities. My relatives found out about the breed through a New York Times article. Over the next three weeks I learned lots about the character of this powerful breed. Truffles was very smart and quick in training. Barbet’s are very athletic dogs and this boy needed plenty of exercise. It was so much fun earning this dogs respect and trust which was vital in handling him on a day to day. By the end of his course we were having a great time going for neighborhood walks, visiting friends homes, and eating out at restaurants. It is so exciting when I see the smiles on clients faces when they see how much their dog has learned during their training stay.

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Gorgeous Standard poodle Diva practicing her sit stay request.

Diva’s guardian is disabled and decided to send her to me for her obedience and basic support dog training. I had an amazing time with this adorable standard poodle mix. She was so excitable but very smart. Using my unique training approach I was able to turn around her bad habits and successfully teach her manners and advanced obedience training. Diva’s daily work and play sessions gradually became longer and more focused. I had so much fun transforming her behavior, from a wild jumper, puller, and a dog who would run away into a dog that politely greets guests, walks politely even next to a wheelchair, happily performs long sit and down stays, and comes when called off of the leash every time. She was such a pleasure to have around the Kabler house– I miss Diva!

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David out to dinner with Tundra, practicing a long down stay in West Asheville.

Some old time clients from back in the 1990’s called me about their new German Shepherd Dog Tundra. I had trained their last German Shepherd and they were excited to tell me about their new puppy. In 2013 they enrolled him in a week of puppy Residency training at 16 weeks old. I fit him and acclimated him to a Gentle Leader collar and worked on his obedience, house training, and manners. At a year of age he came back for his adult training Residency. I just love German Shepherds and Tundra is a handsome and athletic white one. It was so rewarding guiding him and his human guardians from puppy all the way to adult. The Kabler approach raises highly social, confident, happy, and obedient dogs with maximum personality and Tundra was no exception. He graduated through the program excelling in all respects. He was such a pleasure to work with.

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Tundra reunited with his family after his Kabler Residency.

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Mother/daughter training together, preparing their dogs Arabella and Triton for a family move to Japan.

I also completed many private courses of instruction this year. My private classes are very effective and fun– each session builds upon the last and the relationship between dog and human grows ever stronger from session to session. I guarantee all of my work and structure each program so that we are never in a rush.

It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to work with clients from all walks of life and breeds from all the different groups of dogs. I had an amazing year in 2014, my 19th year of professional dog training. If you are interested in bringing your dog to me, I offer both private lessons and Residency training courses. I hope your 2014 was as awesome as mine.  -David

Call (828) 337-5792 to schedule your FREE consultation.

Dilly

French Bulldog Dilly had an amazing Kabler Residency with fabulous results.

It’s All About Establishing a Healthy Relationship With Your Best Friend

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Please call now to schedule you and your dogs FREE evaluation and consultation with Master Trainer David Kabler. (828) 337-5792

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Danny learning to excitedly follow his Guardian.

Establishing a healthy relationship with your dog is the most important aspect of training at Kabler School For Dogs. My comprehensive training approach will guide your dog in ways that will help you to grow bonds of friendship that will deepen your connection. It is always a pleasure when I see the relationship between guardian and canine become deeply rooted during training programs. Dogs that previously pulled and lunged become polite walkers that stay by their humans side even in the midst of high distractions. Dogs that previously had behavioral issues at home become a pleasure to live with. Kabler training courses are all about creating a happily trained dog that follows through with their obedience requests at home and out in the real world. Parks, residential neighborhoods, restaurants, and downtown areas are all destinations during a Kabler training program. This will ensure reliability of the training.

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Lily learning to focus on her guardian during a training session with David.

During a Kabler School For Dogs training program human guardians are also thoroughly trained in how to successfully work with their unique dog. Everything from obedience requests, to best ways to praise and motivate are customized to fit the needs of individual dogs and guardians. Building a relationship with your dog is one of the most rewarding friendships that you will ever experience. I make each class exciting and fun as your dogs training and friendship deepens and grows. I can’t wait to personally meet you and your canine best friend.

-David

Please call now to schedule you and your dogs FREE evaluation and consultation with Master Trainer David Kabler. (828) 337-5792

Kabler Training Makes Every Walk Stress Free

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Jack graduated through Kabler training with flying colors.

Jack graduated through Kabler training with flying colors.

Jack graduated through my on and off leash obedience courses with flying colors. When I first met him, this handsome dog was a high energy handful, jumping and lunging at will. By the end of his stay with me his transformation was complete. His jumping had been eliminated except when invited, his recall request was honed, his down stay was at a very high level even at restaurants and around tough distractions, and his house manners were impeccable. I enjoy training all dogs to such a high level of obedience. Teaching companion dogs to be happily trained is what I do best. If you are interested in enrolling in a Kabler School For Dogs program please say hi and we can talk about your four legged canine best friend. Looking forward to hearing from you!   – David

Dear David,

Thank you so much for the excellent work you did with my Pitbull mix, Jack. Although it has been many months since his Kabler Residency, his training is still making a big difference in our life together. When we are at the park or on the street, we practice the “down, stay” command and people stop to ask “how did you do that?”. I always give the same answer, “I didn’t do that, David Kabler did.”

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Jack and Daisy having a blast during his residency.

I am most grateful for the reliable “come” command you taught him. It makes every walk stress free to know without a doubt that no matter what situation comes along with another dog or other distraction, Jack will immediately change gears, run quickly and joyfully to me, and sit down.

We are so blessed to have a dog trainer of your level of expertise living in our town! I wish you every happiness and peace in the New Year.

Sincerely,

Denise and Jack

CALL NOW TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION (828) 337-5792

Nobility, Companionship, and Love– Training from the Heart

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Kabler Crest

The new Kabler School For Dogs crest.

The new Kabler School For Dogs crest exemplifies the Kabler philosophy of teaching and training canines. The imagery within the design communicates the ideals that have always been at the foundation of the Kabler canine training method. The crest radiates a sense of nobility, respect for our dogs, companionship, listening to the heart, obeying the intuitive side of our nature, the attainment of lofty training goals, and the love that each canine companion gives freely to us every day.

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German Shepherd Maggie Kabler retrieving car keys as apart of her Assistance Dog training– Officially the best baby sitter in the world.

When I look at this crest, I am reminded of all the challenges that I have overcome to learn this knowledge and wisdom of training dogs. I am thankful for all of my teachers and their different styles– ultimately training is a tradition passed from one trainer to another. I remember all the hard work, the hundreds of dogs that have taught me so much over the years, and the dedication that it took to find success. In my minds eye I can see the beautiful inner spark of each individual canine that I have trained. I am thankful for all the Guardians I have taught whose families will be forever enhanced by sharing their lives with a well trained dog.

I believe the connection that we share with our dogs is a link with our collective human past. By feeding and nourishing the canine/human relationship we are rewarded with a strong sense of healing love as well as a direct connection to the natural world. It is my goal to foster these gifts by teaching all my clients, human and canine alike, with  a patient and intuitive training approach. In sharing the Kabler training method with my clients I strive to create positive alignments and meaningful relationships between canines and their Guardians. – David

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Belgian Malinois Barry Kabler, PH1,CGC clears a 5 foot fence. A well trained canine companion add so much to our experience.

CALL NOW TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION (828) 337-5792

Channeling and Harnessing Your Dog’s Natural Drive

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Lobo expressing his natural drive during a motivational recall request.

Natural Drive is your dogs inclination to exhibit inherent canine behaviors– which we can harness in training. Some of these behaviors include eating food, chasing their Guardian, pulling (sleds, carts, bicycles, etc.), retrieving, and tugging. Natural Drive in canine companion dogs is present in all puppies, in varying amounts, and is either enhanced or diminished by environmental factors during maturation. Puppies who are raised to exhibit some of these natural behaviors into adulthood are happier and have better relationships with their human Guardians.

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Gypsy retrieving her tennis ball for a job well done.

Many dogs have their Natural Drives diminished at an early stage in their life. Their Guardians reduce their dogs ability to play by mistakenly punishing their canine for exhibiting these natural behaviors. It is much healthier for the young dogs mind if we successfully harness this Natural Drive by channelling the energy into enjoyable games that we can play with our best friends.

Dogs that have very strong Natural Drives are able to resist efforts by their Guardians to reduce what humans often perceive as nuisance behaviors. In many cases, these dogs are left anxious and conflicted as they have no acceptable outlet for their Natural Drives. Often, these highly driven canines who lack direction and leadership will begin to demonstrate problem behaviors like lunging, constantly pulling on their lead, jumping, and possible aggression.

When building a relationship with high drive dogs it is helpful to reward the dog by engaging their Natural Drive instincts. This can be accomplished by using treats, tugs, and ball rewards in training. Channeling and harnessing your dogs Natural Drive is an important aspect of training canines and will help deepen the relationship you have with your four legged companion.

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Merlin being rewarded for a successful Stay with an ultra fun game of tug.

While training dogs who have had their Natural Drive inhibited it is important to provide ample opportunities for these dogs to reconnect with their instinctive drives. Almost all dogs can be persuaded to accept treats in training and increase their ability to work for food. Sometimes it is also possible to reignite the inhibited canines natural instincts to retrieve and tug. In both cases it is imperative to remain patient and give the inhibited dog plenty of time to begin to accept treats and play as rewards during training sessions.

Keeping your dogs drive and natural spark alive and engaged is the job of every responsible canine Guardian. Strong instinctive pullers can be taught to ride a bicycle using a Springer device with a pulling harness. Dogs with natural retrieve and tug drive can be rewarded for successful obedience requests with play. All dogs benefit from using treats to enhance their instinctual food drive. Teach your best friend to follow you as you move and perform requests like Sit, Down and Stay for treat rewards. Keep all these training sessions short and fun and over time you will see your dogs abilities improve and your relationship grow.

If you have any questions about your dogs Natural Drive or the Kabler School For Dogs training program please call me at (828) 337-5792. I would enjoy saying hi and hearing more about your best friend. Happy training!

-David

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Frank’s Guardian engages him with an action packed game of tug– working with your dogs Natural Drive deepens the canine/human bond.

2012… What a Fabulous Year of Training

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Daisy having fun on this years trip to Hatteras Island.

Daisy having fun on this years trip to Hatteras Island.

As 2012 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on all the wonderful clients that my apprentice Kim and I have had the opportunity to work with this past year. It has truly been four fabulous seasons of training canine best friends and their human Guardians. There is nothing we like to do more than to facilitate creating better canine/human relationships.

Mountain Feist, Squash, at 8 weeks.

Adorable Mountain Feist, Squash, at 8 weeks.

This past year started off on a great note with a new puppy, as I assisted in raising and training Squash, a gorgeous Mountain Feist. I absolutely adore Terriers, their incredible energy, and strength of will. I was fascinated as we played tug with this intelligent little guy and thought about my own childhood Terrier, McDuff. It has been so fun watching Squash grow over the past year.

Eli, relaxing during our training session.

Eli, relaxing during our training session.

Over the Summer, I met Eli, an incredible German Shepherd Dog who was suffering from fearful territorial aggression. He was under socialized as a puppy and, at a year and a half, was showing aggression towards anyone not in his immediate family. He spent our entire consultation lunging, snarling, growling and barking at me. I immediately recommended a de-conditioning program to help alleviate the cause of the aggressive behavior and also started his foundational obedience. We were able to successfully rehabilitate this handsome boy, changing his behavior, eliminating his aggressive responses, and complete his Tethered and Untethered obedience training.

Chippie Lee and Barley learning obedience and overcoming sibling aggression together.

Chippie Lee and Barley learning obedience and overcoming sibling aggression together.

Also over the Summer, I enjoyed working with Barley and Chippie Lee, two siblings who were suffering from intense aggressive sibling rivalry. They erupted into a very tenacious fight during our first training session and it was obvious that Barley was over reacting in a big way to any perceived transgression on the part of Chippie Lee. I taught them and their Guardian proper obedience– effectively setting up their Guardian as a strong leader. Today these two are happily living together with no more sibling aggression.

Jack absolutely thrived during his stay at the Kabler house.

Jack absolutely thrived during his stay at the Kabler house.

In the Fall I trained Jack in my Residency Training Course. My Residency dogs are guests in my home where I can really focus on teaching house manners. Each guest goes for walks and is trained daily. I really enjoy taking Residency Guests on field trips. Sunny Point Cafe, Hickory Nut Gap Farms, French Broad River Park, and downtown Asheville have all been destinations. Asheville has a new and amazingly effective training option. This program offers incredible results and is so fun for your dog!

Bernese Mountain Dog Ellie learned so much during her Kabler Residency Training.

Bernese Mountain Dog Ellie learned so much during her Kabler Residency Training.

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Kabler apprentice taking time for snuggles after obedience practice.

In 2012 Kabler apprentice Kim Turley has also been progressing in her training knowledge and ability. I have been so excited to see Kim’s confidence grow as she becomes a skilled trainer and instructor. Watching her learn to train has brought back many memories of my own experiences as a young trainer and my desire to discover the best techniques and methods for teaching canines. I am so proud of Kim and am looking forward to seeing my apprentices continued progression in 2013.

In the Fall, I worked closely with Jenna Yarosh at Patton Avenue Pet Company to establish our unique Puppy Preschool Class. Few things compare with the excitement of raising a puppy and this class is designed to assist new Guardians. I love raising pups and in this class Kim and I teach optimum ways to socialize, house train, obedience train, and play train with your new family addition.

Things I have learned this year training best friends– or what the the dogs have taught me:

1.) There is no rush. While working with German Shepherd Dog Eli’s Untethered training I learned a valuable lesson about moving too fast and the importance of progressing slowly. As we were transitioning him from Tethered to Untethered obedience it became evident that he needed more time and lots of more play added into his training. This is one reason why in 2012 I have extended Kabler’s training guarantee to include lifetime follow up lessons– what I enjoy most is learning what the dogs have to teach me and I can only learn these lessons by taking a dog from start to finish and standing by their side for the long haul.

Bogie playing a vigorous game of tug during his training.

Pitbull Bogie playing a vigorous game of tug during his training.

2.) Always remember to take time for play and praise. I love training dogs so much and sometimes get incredibly focused on teaching and then one of my dogs will look up at me and make a playful gesture and successfully instigate my playful side and remind me how important play is to both humans and dogs. I am reminded of my clients, a Golden Retriever named Obi and a Pitbull named Bogie, whose Guardians are learning to use play as a reward. Play and praise are often overlooked as motivational tools and it is incredibly important to use both of these whenever possible in addition to treats as positive rewards.

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Daisy having fun on this years trip to Hatteras Island.

3.) Continue to work on becoming as good at reading human Guardians as I am at reading the dogs. I am incredibly focused on my dogs during training, so much so, that sometimes I need to remind myself that the human Guardian is just as important to the training process as the dog. It is important to remember that the dog and Guardian are a team. I constantly strive to train my clients holistically from this dual canine/human perspective.

These are just a few of my training cases that I have handled over the past year. All of my clients and their dogs are so important to us here at Kabler School For Dogs. It has truly been an awesome year working with so many dogs. I hope that you will get in touch and discuss you and your best friends training goals for the new year– we are so excited about all the possibilities coming in 2013.  – David

CALL NOW TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION (828) 337-5792

Proud Kabler Guardians Train their Canines to the Highest Level.

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These advanced Canine companions show off their rock solid Down and Stay Requests at Distraction Proofing class.

These advanced Canine companions show off their rock solid Down and Stay Requests at Distraction Proofing class.

At Kabler School For Dogs we take our ability to train Guardians and their best friends to the highest levels very seriously– and have a fabulous time doing it! The recent invitation only Proofing Class was a huge success and should give Canine Guardians everywhere motivation to practice daily with their best friends.

All the dogs and Guardians had an excellent time training in the advanced Distraction Proofing class at Carrier Park.

All the dogs and Guardians had an excellent time training in the advanced Distraction Proofing class at Carrier Park.

This Distraction Proofing Class was held in Asheville at Carrier Park around the bowling green. Class began with an on leash meet and greet. The Guardians and dogs got to say hello while tethered and work on leash manners. Next, we worked  on Untethered off leash training by taking an off lead group walk with all the dogs. We also worked on our long Down and Stay requests with residency dog Ellie providing the distractions by walking around the dogs. We wrapped up the session with 100 yard motivational recalls and some play time. It was incredible to see all the dogs run at full speed towards their Guardians.

These advanced Canine companions show off their rock solid Down and Stay Requests at Distraction Proofing class.

Kabler Apprentice Trainer Kim walking Bernese Mountain Dog Ellie around all the dogs for Distraction Proofing.

All the Canine and Human Guardians had an awesome time participating in this intensely fun class. The challenging nature of this class and the ease with which the dogs completed all the exercises is proof positive in the strength of the Kabler training technique which is adaptable to fit the requirements of dogs with varying temperaments. Training is a journey that Guardians take with their canine companions. Having fun while training is as important as achieving results. It was an incredible class– be on the lookout for future proofing classes in exciting new locations in 2013.

Kabler Teacher, Scott Mueller, Inducted into IACP Hall of Fame.

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David’s teacher and mentor Scott Mueller in front of National K9 School of Dog Trainers. Scott trained the world’s first handicapped support dogs and has been inducted into the International Association of Canine Professionals Hall of Fame, a tremendous honor.

In 1996, I graduated from National K9 School of Dog Trainers where I had the pleasure of being taught by school founder Scott Mueller. Scott pioneered the use of dogs for handicapped support service, having trained the first dogs for this purpose in the 1970’s.

I am very proud of the education I received at National K9 and am thrilled that Scott was recently inducted into the International Association of Canine Professionals Hall of Fame. Scott is in excellent company; with the likes of the Weatherwax Family who trained Lassie, The Monks of New Skete, Dr. Ian Dunbar, and Cesar Milan; all having also won this incredible honor.

My experience of being taught by Scott gave me an amazing foundation of knowledge about dogs and how they think. He encouraged me to work extremely hard towards my Master Trainer Certification.

Scott was the first to suggest that I start my own business, giving me the confidence boost I needed, telling me that he believed I would achieve tremendous success. He helped design my school logo and inspired my professional career.

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David’s Master Trainer Certificate signed by legendary dog trainer Scott Mueller.

While at National K9 I learned how to properly raise puppies for service and family, how to effectively train handicapped support dogs in all manner of assistance work, scent detection for Search and Rescue, protection dog training, and so much more. I was instilled with a strong sense of professionalism and respect for all the trainers who came before– pushing the field to higher levels of understanding and achievement.

Scott gave me a strong start in canine training and has been a mentor to me through my career– over the years I have been taught by the best of the best and am thankful for all my teachers that have given me so much.     -David

It’s Been a Busy Fall Training Season

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Handsome German Shepherd Dog Eli practicing a Down & Stay request during an in home training session.

Gorgeous Doolin accepting a reward from her Guardian for a successful Down & Stay request.

At Kabler School For Dogs we have been having an awesome Fall training season. My apprentice Kim and I have been successfully finishing up with our Summer training cases. Tenshi and Jack both graduated through the Residency Training Course. Eli, a very aggressive German Shepherd, has been successfully de-conditioned in his response to strangers and his untethered obedience is coming along nicely. Kim’s training dog Iko and his Guardian are getting close to Tethered graduation. We are really excited about all of our graduates– and beginning training with lots of new Guardians and their canine companions. Kim and I would like to welcome all of our new clients to Kabler School For Dogs.

Obi is a gregarious Golden– The highest goal of obedience is to shape and grow the relationship between Guardian and Canine companion.

Kabler School For Dogs is proud to announce our Puppy Preschool Class. The training of the young pup is often overlooked by novice dog Guardians. These early weeks are actually critical to the healthy development of your best friend. Proper training and socialization from 8-20 weeks can successfully prevent serious behavioral issues later. Puppy Preschool also includes house training, crate training, redirecting play biting, reward based obedience, and fun games you can play with your new dog. New puppies are welcome each week– hope to see you and your new pup at class. To enroll call Kabler School For Dogs at (828) 337-5792.

Working Dogs Get A Job… And Love It.

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Toby and Blaze

Toby, Blaze and their Guardian Fred learning to work together.

When I went out for an in home consultation I met Fred and his two handsome dogs Toby and Blaze. Both dogs were incredibly high energy. Fred was suffering from back trouble and could not walk his boys without them pulling and lunging uncontrollably. The dogs leapt all over me, scratching me with their strong paws and it was clear that Fred needed more control over them than he had. We started with basic training and advanced until Fred was able to walk both of them politely down his street. Both dogs learned to listen to Fred for direction, walk slowly with him on loose leashes, and to sit or down stay upon request. Now, after going through my Basic training course, Fred has a stronger relationship with his two dogs, and has a higher level of control at home and when taking them places. Toby and Blaze, both working breeds, have their need for a job satisfied— It is incredibly rewarding for me when I see a new bond of trust, respect and communication grow between dogs and their humans. Following is a letter from Fred describing his experience training at Kabler School For Dogs. Happy training!      -David

I was referred to David Kabler at Kabler School For Dogs by Aaron Bales (Owner/Manager) of Happy Tails Country Club in Fairview. I was looking for training sources for my 2 dogs, Toby, a 9 month old Labrador mix adopted from Brother Wolf, and Blaze, a 5 year old Shepherd mix from Asheville Humane. Blaze had been to obedience classes for 18 sessions during the 5 years before meeting David.

I called David and he came out to our house to meet Blaze and Toby. I had called David primarily to work with Toby (the puppy). We made arrangements for David to work with Toby for 5 sessions at our house beginning the following week. As it turned out David told me to include Blaze as well, which I thought was great for them to get some training together. We began the following week with basic beginnings.

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Toby and Blaze are handsome boys– practicing Down and Stay upon request.

What I have truly learned the most, is how to change my actions with dogs and how to positively guide them in situations, versus scolding them for unwanted behavior. I have seen vast improvement in both dogs and I have learned how to actively work with each dog on their strong points and their weaknesses.

Kabler Dog Training is not just dog training, but people training as well. I had to learn how to teach and communicate with both dogs even though Blaze was further along than Toby. After about the 3rd class we would go out to wait for David’s arrival and both dogs were very excited to see David even though he was a very firm instructor. They enjoyed their time with Kabler School For Dogs, as did I. I highly recommend his classes.

Thank you David.

Gerry and Fred S.

“Toby & Blaze”

Mild Winter Means Early Start To Your Dogs Spring Training

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The mild Winter we’ve been having has made training outdoors a real pleasure this year. So many clients wait until Spring to start their best friends obedience training and this year many new clients are taking advantage of the gorgeous weather. All of David’s training sessions are run out in the real world. It’s been busy training with clients at local parks, downtown Asheville, outdoor cafes, Bent Creek, and in clients homes. Training your best friend makes for a happier, healthier, more communicative, and less anxious best friend. Not only that, but teaching your dog the skills of obedience is one of the most satisfying and enjoyable experiences that you can share with your canine.

Give David a call today to find out more. (828) 337-5792

New Dog Training Column in Critter Magazine!

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David is excited to be writing a new monthly column featuring his unique dog training perspectives for Critter Magazine. Published monthly for over 15 years, Critter Magazine is an animal adoption publication that is available for free in Asheville, NC.

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Look for David’s article in the March issue of Critter.

Critter believes in approaching animal welfare by promoting adoption, awareness and education about issues. Find out more information at http://www.crittermagazine.com.

David’s first article will be about separation anxiety in dogs and how a good training program can alleviate their stress and symptoms caused by being separated from their human pack. Look for it in the March issue of Critter.

Upcoming articles will be about training techniques for puppies and adult dogs. The articles will give unique insights into canine behavior. David is anticipating sharing his extensive canine training knowledge and experience with Critter readers all over Western North Carolina.

Contact David now to schedule your dog’s FREE training and behavioral consultation. (828) 337-5792.

Canine Wrangling for New Feature Film ‘Wanderlost’.

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David’s Belgian Malinois, Barry, on the set of Wanderlost.

Wanderlost is a new award winning dark fantasy feature film that stars Belgian Malinois Barry Kabler. “Training Barry for this role was so much fun as well as challenging. Ultimately Barry did an awesome job of acting on the set and I really had a blast working with my best friend on this incredible project. Training a dog for a film role is always challenging and it is important to make the experience fun for the canine actor.”, says Master Dog Trainer David Kabler. Wanderlost is currently screening at film festivals and is a finalist in the Famous Monsters Of Filmland film festival. You can check out the films trailer at wanderlostfilm youtube.

David working with Barry at Blue Ridge Motion Pictures on the set of the feature film Wanderlost.