…
Where Do We Give the Reward?
By Pat Robards – Hills Howler Edition: July 2020 I thought I might mention where I find it important to give my dog her reward as it is very, very important. Well, I consider it is. Of course it depends on the level of training you wish to attain …
Operant Conditioning and the ABCs of (Dog) Training
Hills Howler Edition: September 2023 Dog training is an art, and at its core lies the science of operant conditioning. This method relies on the concept of behaviour being shaped by consequences, and understanding the ABCs — Antecedent, Behaviour, …
Dog Safety Tips for Heat, Cold & Storms
At Hills Dog Club, we care about the wellbeing of every dog and their family. As the seasons change, so do the risks our dogs face. Whether it’s a scorching summer day, a chilly winter morning, or an unexpected storm, it’s important to know how to …
A True Blue Celebration: Muswellbrook Honours the Australian Cattle Dog
Muswellbrook, the historic birthplace of the Australian Cattle Dog, recently hosted a spectacular celebration in honour of this iconic breed. The town was buzzing with excitement as hundreds of enthusiasts gathered with their dogs to celebrate the …
Leave It Exercise
By Dianne Atkins, Former Chief InstructorHills Howler Edition: July 2020 "This is an update to the way Hills Dog Club is teaching 'Leave It'. Please do yourself and your dog a favour by learning this well. In fact, teach it to your friends and …
Bob the Railway Dog: Icon of Australian History
By Josephine Sargent – 7 October 2011Hills Howler Edition: February 2025 Bob the Railway Dog had an insatiable thirst for train travel – he was a dog for all Australians. This scruffy German Collie was born in 1882 with four seriously itchy …
Our Club’s Journey to Becoming the First Reward-Based Training Club in NSW
By Dianne Atkins, April 2019Hills Howler Edition: April 2022 I started instructing in 1990 and before I became Chief Instructor, I believed there was a better way to train dogs. Obedience Clubs did not cater for puppies, and any puppy that joined …
Starting Dog Training with Your Puppy or Young Dog
By Rachel LawlerHills Howler Edition: February 2019 Taking your new family member to dog training classes for the first time can be an overwhelming experience, but it doesn’t have to be! There are a few things that you can do to be prepared and …