In 1985, Atlanta magazine introduced its readers to Michael Quattrochi, a pioneering dog trainer who revolutionized the approach to canine training.
Quattrochi advocated for early puppy training over the traditional methods that focused on adult dogs.
He was a strong proponent of using positive reinforcement rather than harsh reprimands, famously stating, “Why should I raise my voice when a dog can hear from three to five times better than me?”
Among his early successes was a dog named Bandit, who had developed a reputation for escaping and had ended up in a pound due to his disruptive behavior.
Quattrochi expressed a belief that Bandit’s circumstances could change with the right training, demonstrating his commitment to giving dogs a second chance at life.
Now, as he marks his 50th year training dogs, Quattrochi reflects on the evolution of his methods and the relationships he has fostered between dogs and their owners.
“Most people call dog trainers when they have problems.
The best way is to call when they get a puppy so things can start on the right foot,” he advises.
His training philosophy centers on positive behavioral modification tailored to everyday situations a dog encounters.
While many experts advise starting training at six months, Quattrochi begins as early as eight or nine weeks.
Within just three weeks, puppies can learn essential commands such as heel, sit, stay, and come, all while minimizing unwanted behaviors like chewing and accidents in the house.
This proactive approach lays the groundwork for a harmonious relationship between dogs and their owners from the very start.
Quattrochi challenges the common belief that dogs inherently want to please their humans, positing instead that dogs primarily seek to satisfy their own needs.
His training techniques exploit this survival instinct by demonstrating to dogs that pleasing their owners can also lead to personal rewards.
For instance, Quattrochi describes how his own dogs instinctively sit by the door when they need to go outside, exhibiting learned behavior without prompting once they understand it secures their reward—his positive affirmation.
Currently, Quattrochi trains about three dogs per month.
He describes his life as semi-retired, rejecting the traditional notion of retirement.
“Why do you retire? So you can do what you want to do.
So if I’m doing what I want to do, why would I stop?” he explains.
Quattrochi sees great value in his work, believing he is enriching the lives of dogs for their 12 to 14 years on earth.
Through the training process, he witnesses firsthand the joy experienced by both dogs and their families, further motivating him to continue his passion.
While many articles attempt to rank dog breeds based on intelligence, Quattrochi asserts that every dog has the capacity to learn basic commands, albeit with varying degrees of difficulty as some may be more stubborn than others.
His extensive experience leads him to conclude that all dogs can learn when given the opportunity.
With a focus on ensuring a positive outcome for both dogs and their owners, Quattrochi remains dedicated to transforming unruly pups into cherished companions.
His methods represent a longstanding commitment to understanding canine behavior and utilizing effective training strategies that prioritize the well-being of the dog.
As he approaches this milestone in his career, the impact of his work resonates with dog owners who benefit from his innovative approach to training.
image source from：atlantamagazine
