Why Obedience Training Is the Best Gift You Can Give Your Rescue Dog
At Camp Cocker Rescue, we’ve seen time and again how training transforms lives. Although many of the dogs we rescue may have had some obedience or house training in their past, we often don’t know their history. Every new dog is a bit like a puzzle—one that you and your dog get to solve together, piece by piece. That’s why we recommend enrolling in a basic obedience class right away when you adopt.
Training & Bonding With Your Dog
Although many of the dogs we rescue may have had some obedience or house training in their past, we often don’t know their full history. Every new dog is a bit like a puzzle—one that you and your dog will solve together, piece by piece.
That’s why we always recommend signing up for a basic obedience class as soon as you adopt. Even if you’ve had years of experience with dogs, training offers more than just skills:
- It helps you and your dog bond faster.
- It gives your dog practice with focus and manners in public.
- It builds confidence through learning and social experiences.
- It creates a positive relationship rooted in trust and teamwork.
Our Training Philosophy
At Camp Cocker Rescue, we believe in and advocate for force-free, positive reinforcement training. Dogs learn best when training is based on rewards, encouragement, and clear communication—not fear or pain. Tools like choke chains, prong collars, or shock collars are harmful and do not align with our philosophy of humane, science-based training.
Force-free training teaches dogs what to do instead of punishing them for mistakes, creating lasting skills and a happy partnership.
Types of Training to Explore
There are many ways to enrich your adopted dog’s life through training:
- Basic Obedience: Foundations like sit, stay, recall, and leash manners.
- Clicker Training: A fun way to mark and reward desired behaviors with precision.
- Agility: Builds confidence, coordination, and focus through obstacle courses.
- Tracking/Nose Work: Lets dogs use their natural scenting abilities in structured games.
- Advanced Manners or Tricks: Great for mental stimulation and deepening your bond.
Remember—training isn’t just for “problem dogs.” It’s about giving your dog a chance to learn, grow, and feel proud.
A Success Story: Stuart
Camp Cocker volunteer Monica showed us how powerful training can be. When she adopted Stuart, he didn’t know much at all. She started with obedience training, then moved on to clicker classes where Stuart graduated top of his class! Next, Monica plans to explore agility or tracking with him.
Stuart’s story is proof that with patience, consistency, and love, dogs can thrive in ways we never imagined. We wish every adopter could give their dogs these same wonderful opportunities to learn and shine.
