FAQ (Board & Train)
How many hours of training will my dog receive?
We train in segmented training lessons throughout the day, accumulating to an average of about 5 hours per day of training. We keep them moving from about 6am till 9pm. A tired dog is a happy dog. They come live directly with our family, so we always have something for them to do :)
How long does each program last?
Depending on which program you are enrolling in, a good rule of thumb is plus or minus 3 days for most situations. We do scale it based on each individual dog and understand like humans, we all have different learning rates. It is our job to accomplish the material and provide the best education for your dog.
How many families do you work with?
We usually work with about 3-4 families at a time.
What if my dog requires more days to accomplish the training, will I be charged extra? This is our *Working Guarantee Promise*
Not by any means! We completely understand that dogs learn at different rates and we are more than prepared to work with your dog longer when/if necessary to get them to the best version of themselves!
What is your facility / set-up like?
Everything is held in-house with our family. It is truly an immersive experience because they get to live directly with us, while focusing on formal education. We are located on about 6 acres for off-leash work and play, while having the care and comfort of living in a home.
Do you proof the dogs in public?
Of course! We make sure to proof everything are us, dogs, cat, children, chickens, random public distractions, etc.
How do you train?
That is a hard question to answer, however it can be summed up into whichever methodology is necessary for your dog. We believe dogs like people need a balance in life to be the best version of themselves. We focus on different ratios of operant conditioning, while layering in classical conditioning for the transfer process back home.
How do you determine when they are ready to head home?
We have a finishing process, in which we look for certain characteristics in their behaviors and the training in which they have received. With this process, once accomplished we will confirm with you that they will be ready to head home.
Where/how is the switchover process conducted?
We love how we conduct the transfer process back home! We typically prefer to bring the pup back to the client’s residence to help initiate the return home. Followed up by any necessary additional lessons and check-ins / adjustments for the month following training.
How often do you train small dogs?
Very often actually! And we are so proud of those clients that seek out training. Very often we as dog owners create excuses for dealing with unwanted behaviors due to the dog’s size. Dog behaviors such as aggression, reactivity, impulse control, potty training, etc. are universal between all sizes of dogs. So we are always proud of our clients that seek out help with their small dogs.
Can I bring their stuff with them?
Of course! And we prefer such; anything like beds, blankets, toys, etc. are always welcome!
Do I need to bring food?
We prefer so! This can be brought in a large container or in small baggies for each day.
What training aids do you use?
Anything that we see beneficial for you and your dog. Training aids are a great tool, only when the aid eventually fades away in the future. That is the exact purpose of why it is called an aid and not a dependency. We can use a combination of markers, clickers, e-collars, martingales, slip leads, treats, dog cots, etc.
What are your contact hours?
Anytime from 8am-8pm
Texting Spencer can be done at anytime. He will respond as quickly as he can:)
We prioritize time for your individual dog and their training needs.
Do we get updates on our pup?
You bet!! Updates can be done as frequent as a client prefers:)
What about maintenance lessons?
If you have accomplished any of our programs, then you qualify for our free tune-up lessons. Even if you are a client from many years ago!
Additional FAQ
Do you take clients on from out of state?
Always! A good majority of our clients come from all over the US
What happens if my dog has a special diet or eats a raw meal plan?
That is more than fine! You can either bring their food with them, or we can have it shipped in directly. We use our kitchen to hand cook or prepare any special dietary requirements for the pups that come stay with us.
What behaviors do you address in your training?
A general overview of the most common behaviors that we work with are: impulse control, off-leash behaviors, on-leash behavior, overall manners and obedience, dog aggression and reactivity, human aggression and reactivity, fear aggression, hypersensitivity, anxious and anxiety based behaviors, possessive behaviors such as crate or food possession, resource guarding, impulse control and the list goes on!
What are you not?
What we are NOT is a correction first based dog trainer. These are highly prevalent in the area. We believe in creating and shaping proper behaviors in the dog’s mental ability and muscle memory increasing proficiency with positive reinforcement, redirections, and engagement! There are no short cuts to quality. We practice a very balanced approach and adjust it based on your dog’s individual needs.