Across the Georgia state line, around a curve of meadows just under the shadow of Rock City rests a peaceful haven … for dogs! Created by Roddy Reynolds – dog boarder, trainer and chocolate lab breeder with over 25 years of experience – this kennel and training grounds known as Blowing Springs Kennel is the place where Roddy turns uncivilized pets into sophisticated companions and top-tier competitors. “Roddy dogs” have come to be known for their fun-loving personalities, excellent physiques and responsiveness in performance. It is not uncommon to hear the question, “Is that a Roddy dog?” in reference to a well-behaved pooch in the Chattanooga area.
Puppy passion runs in the Reynolds family. Roddy owned a Great Dane as a child, and his family even trained it to ride a skateboard. The kids rode for miles behind their beloved pet, holding tightly to his tail.
But before Roddy began training dogs of his own, he first trained horses. He believes that training a 1,500 pound animal utilizes techniques no different than those needed to train dogs: merely communicate in animal language.
Roddy’s three simple tools: a leash, toy and body language. Roddy knows to train not by strength but by guiding presence. He confidently states, “There are no dumb dogs.” Rather, people’s expectations for their dogs are too low. If owners are willing to be trained alongside the dog, the training will be a success for the owner and the dog, no matter what size, breed or ability. Roddy trains dogs, but to do so, he also trains people.
Soft-spoken and mild-mannered, Roddy explains that unknowingly, owners treat dogs as employers sometimes treat lazy employees – giving out paychecks whether they are earned or not. Why do pet owners give treats, toys and affection no matter how their pets behave?
Roddy says to create expectations for dogs and to start when they are only a few weeks old. Using pressure when dogs behave badly and praise when they behave well, Roddy trains dogs from the ground up, using simple methods.
Roddy says it is crucial to communicate to dogs in “animal ways,” rather than with “people talk.” Dogs respond to body language, to rewards of attention for good behavior, and to having something they care about, a ball or toy, taken away for bad behavior. “Never reward a dog with treats,” admonishes Roddy. Roddy dogs quickly learn to come when called, where to use the bathroom and how to play with a toy through positive encouragement.
While most dogs needlessly bark saying, “Look at me!” Roddy dogs rest quietly in the kennel. No barking, no “accidents,” no jumping to be petted or let out. Roddy dogs know that they will play outside often and predictably because he has set expectations for the dogs. With positive praise as a reward for good behavior, they need not act out for attention. From week-old puppies to full-grown dogs, Roddy dogs are calm and content.
Today Roddy’s Blowing Springs Kennel is a thriving organization. Roddy trains dogs from as far away as British Columbia and the Midwest, and some of his dogs have received top honors in national competitions. With a growing business, Roddy has expanded his partnerships and has developed a relationship with McKamey Animal Care and Adoption Center and the Chattanooga State Veterinary Technician program. The business has also produced a puppy-training DVD.
Roddy’s parting advice to pet owners is that most problems with dogs are created by owners; thus, most dogs need only a few lessons to become good companions. It is up to owners to make the commitment to consistently practice invaluable training lessons with their dogs. Simple “pressure and praise” training can lead to a more enjoyable experience with your dog, and Roddy invites you to see for yourself what a little training can do.