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Philosophy

SwissRidgeTrainingPhilosophy-largeAt SwissRidge Kennels, we strive to breed beautiful, healthy, gentle dogs. But good breeding only goes so far: dogs also need to be raised correctly.

A well-mannered dog is a pleasure to own and welcome wherever you go. We want to give our clients the tools they need to raise good dogs—dogs  that listen and obey. That’s why we send every puppy home with a complete SwissRidge care package and a series of informational DVDs. We provide even more advice in our book, Bernedoodles: A Head to Tail Guide, and we offer training programs and services exclusively to SwissRidge clients.

Dog training is a big subject, but here are a few essential rules for getting started with your doodle (or any pup!):

  • Start obedience training early and keep it up—for life;
  • Figure out what motivates the dog, whether it’s praise, treats, or play;
  • Keep sessions short, positive, and fun;
  • Be consistent and persistent; and
  • Ask for help when you need it.

Address any problems early, before they become entrenched. Call a trainer and get back on track. It will preserve your relationship with your dog.

We know that raising a well-trained dog is hard work, and that people are leading busy, stress-filled lives with many competing demands. Some may believe owning a dog isn’t in the cards for them because they don’t have the time, energy, or skill to get a puppy to the point where it is that perfectly behaved companion. Yet having a dog around—a good dog—enhances one’s quality of life. Research shows that owning a dog can reduce stress and improve health.

If the prospect of starting from scratch with puppy training is too daunting, we can help.

When SwissRidge clients began asking for training support at all levels, we responded by developing a variety of packages designed to suit your needs.  These are becoming so popular that we’ve hired some excellent people to assist in some areas.

  • If you need a head start in the early days, leave your puppy with one of SwissRidge’s incredibly patient trainers as part of our popular Imprinting Program.
  • If you need one-on-one lessons, Lucas (our resident trainer) is available in person or by phone.
  • If you need more intensive assistance, bring us your dog—and they will return as a model of obedience!

Every situation is different, so our services are flexible. Some dogs will start from scratch, some will have the basics covered and need help to reach advanced obedience, and some will have a specific issue to address. Whatever training issues you face, we can help.

We wrote the first book on Bernedoodles

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This comprehensive, easy-to-read and entertaining book covers everything you need to know about this amazing hybrid. Since Bernedoodles can vary significantly in size, build, coloring, and even personality, prospective owners need advice from someone who knows the breed inside out. Who better than the breeder who created them?

Pawsh Magazine – “… insightful tips for finding the right breed and puppy for your family dynamic.”

Complete the Puppy Quiz

Thinking of adopting a SwissRidge puppy?

Often people will want one of my dogs because they are irresistibly adorable. Please take the time to consider if this breed is the right choice for you and your family. Click the link above to answer some questions to help you see if our doodles are the best match for you.