Training Tips for Successful Adoption

We ask anyone who is interested in adopting or fostering a NHPBR dog to remember that dogs don't always adjust quickly to a new home or environment. For this reason, we ask that you monitor your new companion closely for the first few weeks after you bring him home and give the dog time to adjust. We are here to support you and answer questions or help with any issues you may have with the dog, but please give the animal time to grow comfortable in your home and to provide structure and guidance before you decide that it won't work out.

Two Weeks - Give'em A Break!

Two Week Shut Down - We use this program with every dog that enters NHPBR's adoption program. This is a GREAT method for anyone who brings a new dog into their home. If you are planning to adopt or foster a dog, please take the time to read through what Stacie has to say here. Using, or not using this method can be the difference in whether or not a dogs transition into a new home is a good experience or a bad one. 

N.I.L.I.F. (Nothing In Life Is Free)

N.I.L.I.F. - Also known as the "No Free Lunch" program, this method can be a life saver when it comes to solving behavior problems or just fine tuning your dogs obedience skills.


Undesirable behavior can be caused by many things, including undetected illness. No behavior modification program should begin without first taking the dog to a veterinarian for a complete physical examination. While you're there, give your vet a printed copy of this page and ask if it would be an appropriate technique for you to try. The NILIF program is an accepted standard in dog training/behavior but it is not, and is not intended to be, a substitute for an in-person, professional evaluation of your dog's behavior. This technique is intended for dogs in good health and of sound mind and stable temperament.

Bridge and Target Training: Beyond Behavior Modification

(B&T training is the preferred method of training for all New Hope Pit Bull Rescue Dogs. We have found that this method, in combination with NILIF and the Two Week Shut down, offers our dogs a better start to a long and happy life with their new owners.)


Bridge and Target training, as developed from classical and operant conditioning in the marine mammal training field, is presented as an important tool in the enlightened and humane management of animals. Two distinctive developments of this technique, the INTERMEDIATE BRIDGE AND TARGET, are presented which go beyond operant conditioning and allow better communication between human and non-human animals. Continuous rewards are bridged to 20 percent to 30 percent reinforcements on a variable schedule. Successful applications with many species are presented including horses, pigs, pigeons, dogs, and frogs. Food rewards are rarely given. Other reward possibilities are discovered or motivators can develop by asking or finding the individual animal's desires, and these can become secondary reinforcer's. Examples of accomplishments by trainer and animal teams are presented.


Society & Animals Forum (formerly Psychologists for the Ethical Treatment of Animals)

Syn Alia Training System  (offers video demonstrations of the B&T method of training)

Canine Horizons

Top Dog K9 Training Solutions

Top Dog K9 Training Solutions - Owned by Jason Mann, professional dog trainer, author of The Pit Bull Training Handbook and owner of PitBullLovers.com. Top Dog K9 Training Solutions offers latest information about positive dog training techniques. Jason is a wonderful guy who offers a lot of great advice and tips on dog training and much more! He is dedicated to improving the image of the bully breeds and heavily promotes breed education, awareness and responsible ownership.


Check out Jason's Pit Bull Lovers Gazette for more training tips and overall breed education.

The Real Pit Bull

The Real Pit Bull site has been recognized by many as being one of the most comprehensive APBT sites on the 'net. Mary Harwelik, owner and author of The Real Pit Bull, is a certified dog trainer with many years of experience with the breed. She is dedicated to educating people about the breed and debunking myths surrounding the Pit Bull's growing popularity, as well as helping folks with training and behavioral issues they may have with their Pit Bull. Can't find what you need on the training page? Mary offers an online Behavior Consulting Form. Mary is wonderful! Please don't think she won't get back to you... she will. She truly cares about the breed and like us, Mary wants you and your dog to be ambassadors for Pit Bulls everywhere!