Frequently Asked Questions | Printable Version
Frequently Asked Questions:
At what age should I begin training my puppy?
As soon as you bring it home! Whether you realize it or not, your puppy is learning from the moment you bring it into your home (puppies are actually capable of learning from the age of 5 weeks!) The BEST thing to do is to prevent the puppy from learning things you don't want it to know and guide it towards the things you DO want it to know. I allow puppies in my classes at 10 weeks with approval from your vet.
What age do you consider to be a puppy?
The most critical developmental period in a dog's life is from birth to 4 months of age. For the purpose of my classes, "puppies" are 10 weeks to 5 months; adolescents are 6 months to 18 months. Adolescents and puppies are separated into two different classes if possible. Also, whenever possible, adolescent classes are separated from adult classes.
My 8 month old dog still acts like a "puppy"?!?!
Even though your adolescent may still seem like a puppy, its critical developmental period is over, it has already learned many things - both good and bad - AND it is into its "rebellious period". Think teenager.
My dog is two years old, is it too old to start training it?
NO!!! Whether you realize it or not, you have already started training it. Your dog has learned many things; they may be things you haven't wanted them to learn. Habits will need to be broken and you may even need to change some of your vocabulary and ways of interacting with your dog.
Is Private Tutoring training better than a class?
One-on-one training is ALWAYS better, no matter what you are learning. The distraction factor for both you and your dog will be minimal when you are in your own environment. Classes are beneficial for socializing puppies (very important) AND for people who have already done some training with their dogs and/or who want to work on training their dog with the distractions that are encountered in a class.
What equipment will I need to train my puppy / dog?
We start all dogs and puppies out with Positive Reinforcement Training Techniques using Clicker Training. We will use different tools in our training box depending upon the needs of the dog. We will go over the equipment needed on the first lesson.
How much do you charge?
That depends on the services required. Please see our SERVICES page for information and package pricing.
The Goal is to Strengthen You and Your Dog's Relationship
My goal is for your relationship with your dog to become BETTER! We will show you ways of teaching your dog or puppy that will be fun and gentle, to enhance your relationship and enable you to communicate more effectively with one of the most wonderful creatures on this planet. Thank you again for your interest in our programs.
