Training FAQ
 |
Frequently Asked Training Questions
What are your vaccination requirements for your obedience classes?
Is there such a thing as a dog that is “too old” for obedience classes?
Can I bring my children/husband/parents/brother/cousins to class with me?
What if I have to miss a class?
My dog doesn't like other people and/or other dogs. Can I still come to class?
Do you do attack dog training?
Do you use choke chains or pinch collars?
Do you do potty training?
My dog is a yard dog and I just want to train him not to jump on me when I go outside. Will your class help me?
What are your vaccination requirements for your obedience classes?
Dogs must be vaccinated with the usual boosters and rabies as per Arkansas Law. We do not require, but highly recommend, the Bordatella vaccine. We will not take dogs that have been vaccinated at home.
Is there such a thing as a dog that is “too old” for obedience classes?
Definitely not! Dogs learn new things every day, no matter their age. It is true that an older dog may have more deeply ingrained habits that will need to be dealt with, but that does not mean they are incapable of learning. We will simply spend more time undoing previous habits before being able to teach new ones, which can make the process take a bit more time. Older dogs, however, are much more patient and have better attention spans, so they pick up on new commands very quickly.
Can I bring my children/husband/parents/brother/cousins to class with me?
We not only allow it, we highly recommend that everyone who is going to be living with and interacting with the dog come to class. We want everyone to learn to handle the dog the same way, and be on the same page about how to deal with behavior issues. Children make great trainers and are more than welcome so long as they do not pose too much of a distraction. You know your children – if you think they would enjoy it bring them along!
What if I have to miss a class?
Things come up, and missing one class is not a big deal. We can go over what you missed during the week before the next class. However if you are going to miss multiple classes, it would be best to reschedule your sessions. Once you have paid for your class and started the first one, your money is non-refundable. Under certain circumstances we will be able to work with you to move you to another class, but choose your timing carefully to maximize your attendance.
My dog doesn't like other people and/or other dogs. Can I still come to class?
The severity of the behavior problem will dictate whether or not the dog is a candidate for a group class. Many times the aggressive behavior is caused by handler behavior and is quite easy to fix. However if a dog is known to fight and/or bite, she must be evaluated before coming to class.
Do you do attack dog training?
No. Our classes are geared towards companion dogs. A properly trained and socialized companion pet will warn when there is something “out of the ordinary” around, and that will suffice for most people. We do not do any bite or attack training.
Do you use choke chains or pinch collars?
Our classes are positive-based and do not require the use of choke chains or pinch collars. If your dog is an escape artist that can slip out of a flat collar, we may require a martingale collar (limited slip) to keep him from socializing during class. But it is not used as a corrective device. The only other piece of equipment that I might recommend would be an Easy Walk Harness, which is great for dogs that pull. It is non-invasive, comfortable and easy to use. Most dogs accept it better than head halters, making it more effective.
Do you do potty training?
Potty training is something that you must do in your home, to acclimate your dog to your schedule and lifestyle. The same basic rules apply for all dogs, however you need to find what works for you. There is no way to teach potty training in a classroom setting, nor is it very effective to send the dog away to be housetrained. In our puppy kindergarten, basic and private lessons we can go over with you the step-by-step how-to's of housetraining, and help you find the right method/schedule for you and your dog. If you follow our instructions, don't try to cut corners, and be very consistent with your puppy, you should have housetraining licked in no time.
My dog is a yard dog and I just want to train him not to jump on me when I go outside. Will your class help me?
Probably not. Our class is meant for those dogs who are living in the house as part of the family. Yard dogs can certainly be trained, however our methods are less likely to be successful on a dog who is interacted with for only minutes over the course of a day. Our training pre-supposes that you will be spending a great deal of time with your dog in your every day activities, and can build the bond required. Your dog does not have to LIVE indoors, but should be allowed in during the evenings under strict control. If this doesn't fit your lifestyle, neither will our training style.
Have a question you don't see here? Email me and ask!
To save files to your computer, right click + save target as.