🌺 Sarah tried 3 popular training methods. Here's what actually worked.
Hi! I'm Kim, from Prancing Pony Farm.
Maremma Sheepdog Code of Ethics Breeder ~ Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner ~ Licensed Family Dog Mediator ~ Mini Nubian and Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Goat Breeder
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Sarah is a first-time dog owner who did what many of us do: she threw herself into learning everything she could about dogs, including positive reinforcement dog training. She tried Susan Garrett's game-based approach. She explored the DIAL Method. She invested in Karen Pryor Academy courses.
And here's what I love about her story: she's completely honest about what worked, what didn't, and why.
There's no single "perfect" training method. The best approach is the one that matches how YOU learn while meeting your dog's needs. Sarah figured that out through trial and (very minor) error, and her willingness to pivot made all the difference.
The results? Caia accompanies Sarah everywhere—beaches, construction sites, tiny house living, and city adventures. She's confident, adaptable, and clearly thriving.
Caia and Sarah explore a beautiful river in their Hawaiian paradise home
A few things that stood out to me about Sarah's :
How quickly the Karen Pryor Academy Better Vet Visit course transformed nail trimming from scary to a bonding routine (3 weeks!)
Her insight that you can train in "tiny micro sessions throughout the day."
The reminder that good guidance is essential—especially for first-time owners
Speaking of Karen Pryor Academy: their courses are still on sale through the end of January! If you've been considering investing in your dog training education, now's the time. Whether you're preparing for a new puppy or working with an adult dog, KPA's structured, science-based approach delivers real results.
Sarah also generously mentions how Caia's early socialization here at the farm set her up for success. That comprehensive foundation is something I'm incredibly proud of—and it's what every puppy receives before going home.
Here is our youngest litter demonstrating their beginning clicker training lessons. We have a few pups available from this litter and an older litter. Contact me for details.
I love hearing from my readers! Feel free to reply with a quick question or comment. For in-depth training guidance, personalized advice, or complex situations, book an LGD coaching session.
Looking for an LGD Breeder Who Actually Answers Your Questions?
We believe in education-first breeding. Every Prancing Pony Farm Maremma comes with lifetime support, science-based guidance, and a breeder who's invested in your long-term success.
Maremma Sheepdog Code of Ethics Breeder ~ Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner ~ Licensed Family Dog Mediator ~ Mini Nubian and Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Goat Breeder
Sign up to receive information about our Maremma and dairy goat breeding programs, our most recent blog posts and farm updates, helpful Livestock Guardian Dog and goat articles, links to the products and websites we recommend, special offers and other content by email.
