Treat/Retreat was developed by Suzanne Clothier back in the early 1990s. For 30+ years, Treat/Retreat has been helping dogs around the world. This powerfully effective technique is used to help socially shy dogs master the intricacies of feeling comfortable interacting with and being around people. Treat/Retreat about teaching the dog a skill set that promotes confidence.
Key aspects of Treat/Retreat:
- Dog-centric
- Force-free
- Does not use negative reinforcement
This is a dog-centric technique that is force-free, and one that does not use negative reinforcement.
Respect for the dog’s boundaries, arousal and abilities are combined with nuanced observation and engagement of SEEKING to help build the dog’s skills. Using thin slices, Treat/Retreat helps the dog develop skills in comfortable ways that are readily generalized.
What’s Involved in the Treat/Retreat program?
Treat/Retreat works through multiple layers of social interactions:
- Approaching
- Moving
- Interactions
- Groups
- Postures & gestures
- Humans as training equipment
- Orchestrated greetings
The Treat/Retreat certification course is an evergreen course, available any time you are ready to begin. REGISTER NOW!
What Our Students Say About TREAT/RETREAT
- Awesome course! I loved this course. Powerful change through easy to follow protocols! Thank you, Suzanne. ~Shanthi Steddum
- Fantastic – I especially like the information that concentrates on the importance of understanding SEEKING. This is SO GOOD! ~ Christine Fox
- Positive Method This course in just the first module has proven that when we put the ownership on the learner (dog), we have a positive outcome. I’ve learned so much about the “seeking” mode too. ~ Brooke Dickhart
- These introduction subjects have been enlightening. I particularly enjoy the discussion topics and opportunities to get Suzanne’s comments and guidance. ~ Bobbi Burgmann
Treat/Retreat Certified Instructors
Look for the official Treat/Retreat logo!
These trainers have earned their Treat/Retreat certification. They have demonstrated their skill in taking dogs from the first moment as shy, fearful and socially awkward dogs to dogs with new social skills, right up to interacting with people as equipment. Treat/Retreat Certified Instructors have worked through an intensive course and passed hands-on demonstrations with 3 case studies as well as written exam.
Sadly, because this technique has been around for a long time, there are many trainers who have felt free to appropriate the name Treat/Retreat for themselves. While they may believe they understand Treat/Retreat, they often provide inaccurate information. You will find these misguided trainers on YouTube, Facebook, and of course on their websites, even in respected publications.
To avoid the continuation of unskilled trainers mis-applying Treat/Retreat, we created an online certification program in 2020. This is an intensive certification course designed for working professionals who wish to build their skills for working with shy, fearful and socially awkward dogs.
Select a Treat/Retreat Certified Instructor! This listing will be expanding soon as quite a few trainers in the pipeline are able to complete their case histories. The pandemic made it extremely difficult to work with clients and helpers in the way that Treat/Retreat requires. We’ve got trainers from 4 countries close to certification!
Cindy Knowlton, BA, CPDT-KA, CCC-CI, CNWI, CCA,TRCI
As the owner of See Spot Grin in Millersville, Maryland, Cindy offers private lessons, group classes and online coaching thoughtfully focused on building dog/human relationships in a way that makes sense to both ends of the leash.
Shelly Korobanik at Pooch Partners in Vernon, BC offers in-person, remote and self-study training, plus behaviour consultations and modification programs for dogs of all ages and breeds. Our goal is to inspire and empower you through games-based concept training to transform your dog into your perfect canine companion.
Facebook @poochpartners
250.308.5457
Pat Rapaport, KPA, CPDT-KA, TRCI has a mission at her Hole in the Wall Dog Training Academy: to develop or further a fun and enjoyable relationship with your dog. A well-behaved dog is a “good” dog. We will train you how to get the most from your dog. A well behaved dog is a “good” dog. Positive reinforcement with reward training has been proven to speed up the process of learning. Your goals are met and your dog is successful. Aversive techniques and fear based methods are not part of our philosophy.
Liz Weir, CPDT-KSA Shelburne, VT
Verena Sutherland
Reward Your Dog Training
Portland, OR
(503) 995-0892
verena@rewardyourdogtraining.com
At Reward Your Dog Training in Portland, OR, Verena believes in utilizing a research-backed, ethical approach, using rewards-based methods of training that set both you and your dog up for success. Verena focuses on teaching your dog skills and also coaching you to become the best trainer for your pup. Classes,
