LIMA Dog Training

"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."

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- Steven Lindsay

Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training Vol. 3, pages 29 & 726

The IAABC has done the most excellent of jobs describing what LIMA is, so please read the full description by clicking here!

 

Here is my explanation of my training style:

LIMA is based on the belief that punishment-based methods and the uses of devices like prong and shock collars lead to negative results including fear, anxiety, aggression, pain, or even injury. I utilize the dogs' cues and actions to determine their threshold and what can be asked of them.

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LIMA can be thought of as a framework that trainers use to help them systematically decide on the most humane training solution. It’s all about taking the time to understand the dog and the behavior in question to decide on the training method that will cause the least amount of stress possible for a dog. I do not necessarily have a training method that I prefer besides the dogs themselves. They are my teachers, and I am learning with every dog that I meet, and increase my repertoire of the canine language.

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LIMA is also a competence-based approach, so dog trainers and animal behavior consultants are required to keep learning throughout their careers. I am always reading books, consulting with other trainers, and taking classes.

 

By staying up to date with the latest research and techniques through both real-world experience and further education, they’ll be perfectly placed to continue using the LIMA principles.