Koehler Method of Training Tracking Dogs

Philosophy

• William Koehler designed his system based upon careful observation of dog actions and psychology. He noted that, when given a choice between two objects that a dog will choose the more tempting of the two--a bowl of kibble and a freshly cooked steak, for example. The basic principles of the Koehler method state that a dog's actions can be influenced by positive reactions when a good decision is made--physical comfort like a pet or verbal praise--and negative consequences when an undesirable action is performed. The most common corrective method used in the Koehler system is a firm yank on the dog's leash. These actions will eventually serve to remind the dog that when he makes a good decision, positive reinforcement will come, and that when a bad decision is made consequences will ensue. Following this theory, a dog will learn to make informed decisions based on prior events even after training tools, such as a leash, are removed. The Koehler method has been the subject of much controversy among certain trainers who prefer positive-reinforcement-only methods, but nowhere in his texts does Koehler advocate brutality, harm, inhumane behavior or abuse of dogs.

How it Works

• An owner wishing to train a dog in the Koehler method will work in three basic stages. The first stage of training involves physically showing the dog what to do. For the command "Sit," this may involve positioning the dog in a sitting position. For more complex commands, such as "Heel," the Koehler method advocates walking the dog on a leash and changing direction when the dog becomes distracted. This allows the dog to come to the realization that all of his attention needs to be on his handler--the pain from a suddenly shortened leash captures the dog's attention and reminds him that it may not be such a good idea in the first place.

  The second phase of training involves introducing a verbal or physical signal for the command. Saying "Sit" and holding up a finger while positioning the dog in the sitting position is an example of this. After a while, the dog will learn to associate the verbal and physical cues with what he is expected to do.

  The third phase of training involves requiring the dog to perform the command in a distracting environment. Praise and correction are given as needed. After the basics have been learned, the Koehler method gradually transitions these behaviors to an off-leash setting.

How it Can Help

• The Koehler method does not rely on treats as a means of praise. This means that a dog trained in the Koehler method is less likely to beg every time it performs a desirable action. In turn, this means that the dog is desiring something far greater than a treat--praise and affection from its handler or owner. The primary means of physical correction, a leash, is removed by around week 5 of the training system. Instead of relying on physical correction, the dog will feel a sense of shame because of his actions, which is credited as a more effective motivator by proponents of this system.

  While not every method of training is right for every dog, the Koehler method can improve any dog's behavior, particularly those who are training for a specialized field such as hunting, tracking or police work or any job that requires a dog to be off leash for a portion of time.