Cynopraxic & LIMA Dog Training
LIMA and Cynopraxic Dog Training is the heart of what we do.
What Is LIMA and Cynopraxic Training?
LIMA is an acronym for the phrase “Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive” coined by Steven Lindsay. LIMA describes a trainer or behavior consultant who uses the least intrusive, minimally aversive strategy out of a set of humane and effective tactics likely to succeed in achieving a training or behavior change objective. LIMA adherence also requires consultants to be adequately educated and skilled in order to ensure that the least intrusive and aversive procedure is used.
Steven Lindsay considers himself a Cynopraxing trainer and describes it as:
“Cynopraxic training proceeds on the assumption that dogs and people possess a shared capacity to establish relations based on a fair exchange. Such training promotes cognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes conducive to social competence, cooperation, and play. Cynopraxic training objectives are governed by two essential social and life experience criteria: (1) enhance the human-dog relationship and (2) improve the dog’s quality of life.”
Rather than dictating a one-sided program that cannot be realistically implemented by the family, the cynopraxic counselor should work with the family in a spirit of teamwork to find a common solution. Toward achieving this aim, the counselor should listen to the family’s needs and be creative. Just as it is certainly true of dogs, people are individuals possessing unique strengths and weaknesses that need to be recognized and integrated into the training plan. Good cynopraxic counselors know how to work well with both people and dogs.
Abusive training techniques
Did you know that there are trainers, and training organizations that hang dogs to the point of passing out to get them to comply? In sport work they teach a dog let go by “helicoptering” the dog. This is a technique where the dog is swung over the handler’s shoulder and slammed on the ground. This is also used in police K9s. These abusive techniques are used because of a lack of knowledge of dog behavior, learning, and leadership.
Why do I bring this up? You must understand this industry is not regulated. Anyone can “train” your beloved pet in any way they deem. A lot of bad things happen behind closed doors when no one is watching (Do a YouTube search and see hidden video of trainer abuse). At Species K9 abuse, mistreatment or any malice towards a dog is not tolerated by staff or owners. We as humans have an ethical obligation to take care of animals especially dogs. We domesticated them approximately 15,000 years ago. When we did this, we made an unspoken promise to every dog that we will take care of them. Dogs are one of the few animals that will look to a human for help.
At Species k9, we pride ourselves on offering Cynopraxic & LIMA Dog Training, fostering a compassionate approach to enhance the bond between you and your canine companion. Our specialized methods prioritize the least intrusive and minimally aversive techniques, ensuring a positive and ethical training experience. Choose Species K9 in Waco, Texas, for a tailored approach that prioritizes your pet’s well-being.