Frequently  asked questions.

Will this change the personality of my dog?

Dog training can significantly influence a dog's behavior, but it doesn't fundamentally change their personality. Training can impact your dog by:

  • Improving Behavior

  • Increasing Confidence

  • Better Communication

  • Strengthening Bond

  • Developing Healthy Socialization Skills

Do you offer any guarantees or follow-up support?

A dog’s training is never done so we believe in support for the life of your dog. We do offer group socials where we will meet as a group and go over the skills that you and your dog have already learned. This will also help with socialization in public and around other dogs.

Do you provide training for specific behavior issues?

  • We have specific programs to address issues such as aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking.

Can I train my dog at home?

  • Absolutely! We offer private lessons where we will come to you. It is also important to continue the training by practicing at home and continuing to proof your dog outside of lessons in real life situations.

What are the best methods for training a dog?

All dogs and their needs are different, so we believe in a balanced method of training. Here are some various training methods and the benefits:

1. Positive Reinforcement

  • Description: This method focuses on rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, or play. It encourages dogs to repeat those behaviors.

  • Benefits: Builds trust, strengthens the bond between dog and owner, and encourages motivation to learn.

2. Clicker Training

  • Description: A form of positive reinforcement that uses a clicker as a marker to indicate the exact moment a desired behavior occurs, followed by a reward.

  • Benefits: Provides clear communication and helps dogs associate specific actions with rewards.

3. Obedience Training

  • Description: Focuses on teaching basic commands like sit, stay, come, and heel. Can include both positive reinforcement and correction-based techniques.

  • Benefits: Establishes a foundation for good behavior and enhances safety.

4. Leash Training

  • Description: Teaches dogs to walk calmly on a leash without pulling. Techniques may vary from positive reinforcement to more structured correction methods.

  • Benefits: Ensures safer walks and better control in public settings.

5. Behavior Modification

  • Description: A tailored approach to address specific behavioral issues, such as aggression or fearfulness, often involving desensitization and counter-conditioning.

  • Benefits: Helps dogs learn to cope with triggers and reduces unwanted behaviors.

6. Socialization Training

  • Description: Exposes dogs to various environments, people, and animals to develop their social skills and reduce anxiety.

  • Benefits: Promotes well-adjusted behavior and reduces fear or aggression in new situations.

7. E-Collar Training (Remote Collar)

  • Description: Uses an electronic collar to deliver a mild stimulus to encourage compliance. Often used in conjunction with positive reinforcement.

  • Benefits: Can be effective for off-leash training and control over longer distances when used responsibly.

8. Crate Training

  • Description: Teaches dogs to feel comfortable and secure in a crate, using it for house training and creating a safe space.

  • Benefits: Helps with house training and provides a safe environment for dogs.

How do I choose the right dog training program?

We are happy to provide free evaluations, either over the phone or in person to help you determine the program that is right for you and your dog. There are multiple things to consider when selecting a program. We look at a dog’s age, behavior issues, and owner’s availability.

What age should I start training my puppy?

Start Early: Begin training as soon as you bring your puppy home, typically around 8 weeks of age. Early training focuses on basic commands, socialization, and house training.

  • Pros:

    • Early Socialization: Puppies exposed to different environments, people, and animals during this critical period are often more well-adjusted and less fearful as adults.

    • Foundation Skills: Teaching basic commands (like sit, and come) early helps establish good behavior patterns from the outset.

    • Adaptability: Young puppies are generally more eager to learn and adapt, making it easier to instill positive behaviors.

    Cons:

    • Limited Attention Span: Very young puppies have shorter attention spans, so training sessions need to be brief and engaging.

    • Physical Limitations: Some physical activities or commands may not be suitable for very young puppies, so adjustments in training methods may be necessary.

Board and Train programs start at 10 weeks old.

Walking tools can be introduced at 12 weeks old.

Advanced training such, as off leash work, can start at 6 months old.