Question 1

How long and how often do I have to work with my dog to train him/her?

Accepted Answer

All you need is 5 quality minutes a day.  But if your dog is engaged and interested you can work with him/her for hours each day.

Question 2

Why are your prices less than your competitors?

Accepted Answer

My prices are less expensive mainly because I don't have the overhead.  I don't have employees and I don't have the expense of a building.  Also, because I have been doing this for so long, I usually can train dogs and owners quicker than most.

Question 3

What training methods do you use?

Accepted Answer

I teach using mostly positive reinforcement.  This would be with food, play, or praise.  Most dogs respond to one of these but some dogs are not motivated by any of them in which case I use pressure.  Pressure if presented and taught properly is not a negative experience for the dog.

Question 4

How do you involve owners in the training process?

Accepted Answer

All my training is one on one taught either at my house or the client's house.  I typically teach the owners how to teach the dog and spend more time with them than the dog.  Ultimately, it is not about the dog doing something with me but it is about the dog wanting to work with the owner.

Question 5

How do you tailor your training to specific breeds?

Accepted Answer

Every dog is unique, so I customize my approach based on the instinctual needs, temperament, and individual personality of your dog.  This approach ensures that the training is effective, genetically satisfying, and enjoyable for your dog.

Question 6

Do you do group classes?

Accepted Answer

We only do one on one classes.  We find that with group classes one or two dogs in the class usually take up the majority of the time to the detriment of the other dogs.

Question 7

How long are your lessons?

Accepted Answer

Generally 1 hour but they can run over depending on what is happening in the lesson, the engagement of the dog, and scheduling constraints.