Frequently Asked Questions...
Question: Why is it so important to train my dog?
Answer: Training your dog should be one of the first things you look into as a pet owner. Training can start as young as 7 weeks of age by enrolling your puppy in a puppy preschool class. Just like people, dogs are born into this world full of love and curiousity, but without manners. The only way to have a canine good citizen is to train your puppy from the beginning! Dogs are natural pack animals and prefer living in an environment where they have established rules and order to their life, this is why it is so important to teach them their place from the beginning.
Question: Are there any shortcuts to training?
Answer: Depending on how you look at training, you might concider some things a shortcut. The best way to train is by being fair and consistent at all times.
Question: What training method is the best to use?
Answer: There are many different training methods going around out there. Depending on your knowledge of dogs and their behaviors, you will have a much better understanding of the training methods that will work consistently. All training methods have their place. Using treats are a good way to train your dog to do tricks. Other than that, they only have a few other uses in the training world. Halters and gentle leaders are good management tools that make it easier and more comfortable for your dog to pull, but are ineffective for training your dog to understand what you want. Using a training collar can be one of the most effective training tools you may ever use, if you know how to use it. Before deciding on a training method, consult with many different professionals to get the best understanding possible.
Question: How soon can I start training?
Answer: You can start training as soon as you bring your new puppy home. Seven weeks old is a good age to start teaching your puppy manners. Jumping, chewing, play biting and other annoying habits can be prevented with early training, preferably through a puppy preschool program.
Question: How do I know which breed is right for me?
Answer: The only person that can determine which breed is best is you. Take in to account size, coat, energy level, life span and temperment when choosing a breed. If you are only concerned with temperment, you can also look into mixed breeds and adopting or rescuing a dog.
Question: How long will it take to train my dog?
Answer: The time it will take to train your dog will ultimately depend on you, the owner, and how much time and energy you put into it. If you are consistant and follow directions, you can have a well trained dog in no time!
Question: Should I crate train my dog?
Answer: Yes! Crate training is the easiest and most effective way to train your dog! Dogs are naturally pack animals and in the wild they live in dens. The crate is like a den for your dog. They will seek shelter from it. Crate training can make potty training your puppy a snap, it will protect your dog from themselves as well. Your dog will not be chewing on your furniture, cords, remotes, shoes or anything else they want to sink their teeth into. Leaving your dog crated while you are gone gives you the peace of mind knowing he is safe and secure from hurting himself or from destroying your things.
Question: Do you guarantee results?
Answer: No dog trainer can guarantee your dog will listen to you. Your dogs sole success is fully dependent upon you. If you follow our instructions and are fair and consistent with your dog, then you will have nothing to worry about.
Question: Should I take my dog to a dog park?
Answer: You are the only one that can determine if you should take your dog to the dog park. If you have a happy dog who gets along well with other canines, then your dog may enjoy the experience. Dog parks are great for socializing young pups, but be careful. There are always irrisponsible owners who will take dominate or aggressive dogs to the park as well. Try to scope out a park before taking your dog in. Watch the other dogs to see how they react to eachother, also watch the owners to make sure they are keeping a watchful eye on their companions. If all seems well, head on in. If you have a dominate or aggressive dog, I would suggest training for your dog first to make sure he understands that manners are required for the dog park.
Question: How old is too old to train my dog? Is it true that an old dog can't learn new tricks?
Answer: You should train your dog as soon as you get them, but if you haven't or adopted an older dog then there is still time to train. A dog is never too old to learn new "tricks". You should just be careful with elderly dogs that the stress of training doesn't affect any health problems. As long as your dogs is healthy and of sound mind, it isn't to late to train.