Chris Bach’s THE THIRD WAY

Training is delivered through self-paced home study materials including books and DVDs, or through personalized telephone and in-person consultations. The core program is based on “THE THIRD WAY” philosophy, teaching three foundation games and a unique reinforcement system to build attention, calmness, and reliability. Programs cover basic obedience, competition training, behavior modification, and proofing for distractions. No group classes or ongoing weekly programs are offered; all training is individualized through consultation or independent study.

Pricing Summary

Telephone consultations: $90 for the first hour, $22.50 per 15-minute increment after. Personal one-on-one consultations: $110 for the first hour, $27.50 per 15-minute increment after. Books range from $20 to $50 with shipping; DVDs range from $25 to $120 on sale. Sales tax applies to Wisconsin residents. No packages or discounts beyond bulk book orders for professionals.

Policies

Consultations require advance scheduling via completed forms sent by mail or email. Payment is prepaid for the first hour; additional time is paid after the fact via check or PayPal. All consultations require submission of a consultation form regardless of payment method. No cancellation or rescheduling policy is explicitly stated.

Chris Bach’s THE THIRD WAY is a dog training program developed by Chris Bach that focuses on building a strong, harmonious relationship between dogs and their owners through understanding dog behavior, loving dogs for who they are, and teaching them how to live with people. The program emphasizes three core principles: KNOWING more about dogs, LOVING them, and TEACHING them effectively. Chris offers a range of educational resources including books, DVDs, and home study programs that teach foundational games, reinforcement techniques, and problem-solving strategies for common behavioral issues. Services include telephone and in-person one-on-one consultations tailored to individual dog and owner needs. The training methodology centers on positive reinforcement, using games and clear communication to build reliability, enthusiasm, and obedience without reliance on corrections or aversive tools. The program is designed for all dog ages and types, with special focus on puppy foundations, obedience, reactivity, and competition training. Chris no longer conducts seminars or group classes, focusing instead on personalized consultations and self-paced learning materials.

The training approach avoids traditional correction-based methods and instead uses a unique reinforcement system called the “Three Criteria for Reinforcement” to prevent dependency on treats and build lasting behavior. Materials include step-by-step guides for teaching attention, sit, down, heel, recall, proofing, and managing aggression or resource guarding. The Comprehensive Reference Book and the 1, 2, 3 Good Dog booklet are recommended starting points for new clients.

Chris Bach has been publishing training materials since at least 1997 and has developed a dedicated following among dog owners and professionals seeking a thoughtful, relationship-based approach to training. All services are delivered remotely or at her facility in Wisconsin, with no in-home visits offered outside of personal consultations at her location.

Accomplishments

Chris Bach developed THE THIRD WAY method and has authored multiple published books and DVDs since 1997. Her training articles appeared in Front and Finish Magazine starting in 1997. She has conducted seminars and training events for dog owners and professionals, and her Comprehensive Reference Book is in its second edition. Her methods are recognized by clients and professionals seeking a non-aversive, relationship-based approach to dog training.

How to Get Started!

Begin by reviewing the books and DVDs to understand THE THIRD WAY philosophy. For personalized help, complete and submit either the Telephone Consultation Form or Personal Consultation Form, including payment for the first hour. Consultations are scheduled by email or letter after form receipt.