Dog Training FAQ
Helpful answers to common dog training questions from our clients.
Are we the dog trainers for you?
Where are you located?
Do you offer in home training?
It depends on our schedule, availability, and your location. Please email us to see if we are currently offering them. If we do, there is a $100 travel fee per session and sessions must be booked Tuesday – Friday with notice to Rich when booking that it will be a travel session.
What times are you available for a phone call?
We return calls Tuesday through Friday during normal business hours and on Saturdays.
What type of training tools do you use?
We use treats, praise, Starmark collars, martingale collars, slip leads, head halters, prong collars and e-collars. We like to start with the least aversive collars and decide what is best for you and your individual dog to get the best results. E-collars are only provided for certain situations or if a client requests it. There is an additional fee for the electronic collar.
What breeds do you work with?
We work with all breeds, big and small.
Do you work with dogs that are leash reactive?
This is a very common problem and probably the number one issue that we get calls for. We will start out with basic leash work and then start working on adding the distractions of other dogs. Since we have our personal dogs ranging in different energy levels and personalities, we start practicing with a mellow dog and build up the energy level to set you up for success.
What if my dog needs more lessons after completing the initial Private Lesson Program?
After completing our initial three lesson program we offer extended individual lessons ranging from 30 or 60 minutes depending on what you would like to continue to work on.
What will I need for training class?
You will need a 6′ leash and proper footwear (close-toed shoes with a backing). If your dog is a picky eater you can bring some of their favorite treats as well. If your dog is human aggressive, you may be requested to bring your dog on a muzzle depending on the severity. Please do not bring a flexi-lead.
Do I come to the training sessions alone or is it okay to bring the family?
We welcome anyone over the age of 10 who lives in the household. It is great to be consistent with your interactions and you can all learn together.
What if I have questions after the program is over?
Our board and train programs have a lifetime support guarantee. This means free follow up lessons, phone and email follow up. For our Private Lesson Program we offer extended lessons as well as email follow-up after completion.
Do you work with dogs with human aggression?
Yes. We do work with human aggressive dogs through our Private Lesson Program. We also accept them into our Exceptional Dog Program on a case-by-case basis. Some sessions in advance may be required for the boarding option.
Do you work with dogs who are dog aggressive?
We will work on teaching your dog to be calm in the presence of other dogs. We do not offer direct interactions with our personal dogs due to their safety and comfort.
Am I allowed to come visit if my dog is there for a board and train?
We do not allow families to come during training as it can set the dog back with their training especially if they have anxiety and attachment issues. We do send videos every Tuesday and Friday to see your sweet pup having fun and to give an update on where he/she is at with their progress.
Is there a discount for more than one dog in the board and train program?
We do not offer a discount for an additional dog in the board and train program. We still have double the work and it takes double the time to teach each dog.
When my dog stays there will it be all work and no play?
Absolutely not. We like to make training fun. During down time your dog will get individual attention and play time.
How many board and train dogs do you typically take in at a time?
We typically have 2 training dogs here at a time so that we can ensure each dog gets ample training time.
Will my dog be staying outside in a kennel?
Absolutely not. All dogs stay in the comfort of our home and are never left outside unattended. The only time they are outside are for going potty, play time, walks, or sometimes training time and Rich or Christina always accompany them.
Do you offer group classes?
At this time we are not offering group classes.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, credit card, checks, and paypal.
What does the Lifetime Support Guarantee for the board and train mean?
Our lifetime support guarantee for our board and train programs mean that you are able to bring your dog back for free follow up sessions for as long as you have him. This could mean next month or 10 years from now. We are also available for phone and email support as well. In order to get the lifetime support guarantee there are a couple things that need to be completed on your part. We require a phone call within the first week that your dog goes back home as well as a follow up sessions within the first month. If things are going well at home, we may not require a follow up session, but that must be a joint agreement between the trainers and the family.