FAQs

Q: Are vaccinations required?

A: Yes. We require proof of vaccines, including rabies, prior to your consultation. If you use titer-testing, please contact us.

Q: What should I have for the consultation?

A: A 4-6ft leash, collar or harness, and treats. For some dogs, I may request that you have their favorite toys as well. 

Behavior modification consults must be on a sturdy belt-style collar and 6ft leash. No flexi-leashes or unreliable equipment. If you don't have a reliable belt-style collar, I may loan you one for the consultation. The collar must be snug so the dog cannot back out. It should not be too tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and the dogs neck.

Q: Do you work with difficult dogs?

We do! As a matter of fact, our trainer's personal dog is considered a "difficult" dog. Certain breeds, such as Golden Retrievers and Labradors, tend to naturally be very biddable and "easy" to teach to behave indoors and in public. However, other breeds may require more foundational work to excel. We have plenty of experience in working with a variety of "difficult" dogs and assisting owners in establishing a functional relationship with their dogs.

Q: What is your cancellation policy?

A: Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the start of your scheduled appointment. Otherwise, the session or consultation will be charged as normal and no refunds will be issued. For packages, the session will still be counted as one session. 

Q: Should my family members/housemates be present during the training sessions?

A: We encourage household members living with the dog to be present at training sessions.

Q: I really need to train my dog, but I can't pay for it outright. Will you work with me?

A: We are happy to work with individuals who are experiencing financial hardship. Send us a message using our contact form here!

Q: What collars do you recommend?

A: If you want a sturdy belt-style collar, this is a solid choice.

Q: What leashes do you recommend?

A: For dogs that are particularly powerful, Horton K9 leashes are a good choice.

Q: What crates do you recommend?

A: Wire crates can be fine. We're a big fan of RuffLand Kennels and Gunner Kennels.

Q: What muzzles do you recommend?

A: Please contact us directly for muzzle questions. Beware that Baskerville muzzles are not bite-proof.

Q: What dog-sport equipment do you recommend?

A: Depending on the sport you are pursuing, we have plenty of experience with appropriate equipment manufacturers. Please contact us directly for specific recommendations. Be sure to include what sport you are pursuing.

Q: Why do you recommend against dog parks?

A: Dog parks are fine until they aren't. They're a significant cause of environmentally-induced behavioral issues in dogs. To reduce the chance of your dog developing reactivity or aggression, we recommend avoiding dog parks.

Q: Isn't it all how you raise them?

A: No. Part of the equation is genetics, and part of the equation is environment. Different breeds/individual dogs are predisposed to different behaviors, and as such its up to owners to be responsible regarding their dog's genetic propensities.

Q: When is it appropriate for a dog to be allowed off-leash?

A: A dog should not be off-leash unless they are completely trained to come back, regardless of what else is around. Dogs should not be off-leash if they will go up to other people or dogs. We recommend following local laws as well.

Q: Should I raise two puppies at the same time?

A: We recommend against it. They will likely develop litter-mate syndrome, and you will likely end up spending a lot of money wishing you didn't do that. There are very rare exceptions to this answer, but in general: this is a bad idea.