Why work with a certified trainer?

At the current time the dog training industry is not regulated. Anyone can call themselves a trainer. Working with a CPDT-KA certified trainer means that the trainer has passed a comprehensive exam on training theory and has at least 300 hours of training experience.

What about being the ‘alpha/pack leader’?

Alpha/Dominance theory in dog training often relies on punishment-based training. Science-based training relies on cooperation and partnership. Using rewards and setting the dog up to be successful is proven to have greater success long-term and offers a cooperative relationship with your dog.

When you say positive reinforcement does that mean we will be pushing treats all the time?

Reinforcers during training are based on what motivates your dog. For many dogs that includes food but may also include petting, praise, toys, and movement. We will use whatever reinforcer works best for your dog. Over time we aim to reduce the amount of reinforcers used as your dog better understands the expected behavior.

What equipment do I need for training?

For most training you will need a flat buckle collar, 4-6ft leash and treats (whatever your dog likes). Other equipment that may be used are a dog bed or towel, harness, long line (15-20ft), treat pouch and any sport specific equipment for our sport clients. We can provide recommendations on equipment during our initial consultation. We do not use prong or electronic collars or other pain inflicting tools during our sessions or classes.

What if I need to cancel?

If you must cancel or reschedule your private training session, we ask that you give us a minimum of 48 hours notice so other clients can have the opportunity to book the time slot.  There is no charge for cancellations and reschedules made more than 48 hours in advance. Cancellations or reschedules made 48 hours or less before the starts of your session time will be charged as a full session.

If you must cancel or reschedule a group/class enrollment, kindly provide a minimum of 5 business days notice prior to the start date of your class so your spot may be filled by another student.  There is no charge for cancellations and reschedules made more than 5 days in advance. There are no refunds (or class credit) given for cancellations made within 5 days of the start of your class UNLESS there is a waiting list for the class and we are able to fill your spot with another student.  

There are no refunds (or class credit) given for cancellations made after a class has started. If, after the class has started, your class instructor feels that a different service would be more suitable to what you and your dog need, the prorated balance of your tuition may be applied to that different service. Tuition transfers are granted at the instructor's discretion only. Personal decisions not to continue to attend a class will not be awarded a credit for another service.

There are no refunds for portions of group classes that are missed due to personal scheduling conflicts or not attended for other reasons.  All private lesson package sales are final - no refunds can be given for sessions left unused or expired.

How long is my package good?

Packages have an expiration date 8 weeks from the date of the first session. Most of our packages are 5 or 6 session packages. Larger packages are sold and contracted based on the size of the package and the type of training being done.

What vaccines do you require?

We ask that dogs have had age appropriate vaccines for Distemper and Parvo (DHPP combo) as well as rabies. Titers are accepted. Other vaccines (Lepto, Flu, Lyme, Bordatella) should be discussed with your vet.

Do you work with girls in season?

For private in-home training or private training at our Smithfield location we are fine to work with girls while they are in season. We ask that the girl wear panties if they are off your property. Group classes and public locations for training depend on the location of the session but in most cases girls in season will be allowed in class with panties on.

Do you train service dogs?

We offer limited task training on a case-by-case basis and public access training for service dogs. We do not train guide or hearing service dogs.

Do you offer board and train?

It is our experience that training is most effective when dogs are trained in their home environment with and by their owners who will ultimately live with them in the environment they are typically , however we know for some situations board and train is a needed service. If you are interested in board and train services, please contact us via email for a quote.

As another option to board and train, we do offer training for your dog with our trainer in your home with one of our trainers with our day training program. We then hold sessions with you to help you continues and maintain the skills the dog has learned in its session.