Frequently Asked Questions
Most questions can be answered by reading the information on the following pages... Pet Obedience Training, Pet Obedience Contract, however, below you'll find extra information, and common questions.
How do I sign up for regular classes?
Can I drop off my contract to you?
Can I bring my contract to class instead of sending it in?
I own two dogs I want to put them into training, should I bring them at the same time?
How do I measure for a slip (choker) collar?
I need a pinch/prong collar what kind do I get?
Do you need to meet the dog first?
When can I start Advanced Obedience?
I need a tab what kind should I get?
My work schedule changes weekly, can we work around that?
I'd like to do your In-Kennel Training, how do I sign up?
What kind of equipment do I need for Puppy Class?
What kind of equipment do I need for Basic Obedience Class?
What kind of equipment do I need for Advanced Obedience Class?
I need a muzzle what type do I get?
How do I sign up for regular classes?
Just go to our contract page please read it completely, fill it out, and send it in, we will contact you with a start day and time after we receive the contract. Deposit or full payment must be sent with contract, balance due at first class.
Can I drop off my contract to you?
With our very busy schedules, it is unlikely that we will have the time to meet with someone just to get payment and contract. This also keeps us from making an appointment that someone won't keep. This is just one of several reasons we have this policy in place. We have been doing business this way for many many years and it works for us. Please send in your Deposit w/Contract. See the contract page.
Can I bring my contract to class instead of sending it in?
Sorry, no, our policy is, we must receive your contract and at least the deposit before we even schedule your class.
Yes, if he/she will be working the dog at home then that person needs to be at class. But no more than 2 people should be teaching the dog.
No one under 18 please. After the dog is trained you can show other family members how to handle the dog.
I own two dogs I want to put them into training, should I bring them at the same time?
That is fine, we have had people bring 2 and 3 dogs some customers had a family member as a handler for each dog, and other customers just switched off and worked each dog separately. Or you can schedule the dogs on different days and times.
How do I measure for a slip (choker) collar?
If your dog is still growing you will probably need to purchase several collars, don't purchase a large one because you think he will grow into it. Fit him as he grows.
The easiest way to tell you how to measure for length for the two types of slip collars...
If
you are using the typical collar with two o-rings you want the collar to just
fit over the dogs head. Example: if a 16" won't fit over the head at all and a
18" fits then you would not get a 20" it would be too big. Use the 18". Comes in
2" increments even numbers. This type of collar goes over the dogs
head.
With a toggle collar you can get a
different fit. Great when the regular slip collar is a bit too big. Comes in 2" increments
odd numbers. This type
of collar wraps around the neck and hooks.
I need a pinch/prong collar what kind do I get?
You want to get a 3mm with a swivel. Do not get a quick release. I will show you how to properly fit and use the collar.
Pinch Quick Release NO
Pinch without a swivel NO
*Pinch with Swivel*
YES
Yes, even in the cold winter months, if your up to it we'll do it. Just dress for the weather, we'll cancel in harsh conditions.
We do offer in-home training. However there is a substantial additional cost depending on your location. It is for local residence only. And we cannot always accommodate the location or time so you should find out before sending the contract.
As stated on the contract no refunds. We have always had a no refund policy. Any monies once received, will be seen as a commitment from you, and are non-refundable no matter how many classes, if any, are attended. No Refunds No Exceptions. Make certain you are ready to start and finish training! Applies to any and all classes, includes Gift Certificates.
Do you need to meet the dog first?
No, we begin training the first scheduled training day. Unless your dog is aggressive and you may need to schedule a temperament test to determine what steps to take with your dog, we have no need to see your dog ahead of time.
When can I start Advanced Obedience?
Advanced Obedience Class is taken after you finish our Basic Obedience Class. It is best if you go straight to Advanced from Basic without any time (weeks/months) between. The dog's training and your handling is correct and fresh.
I need a tab what kind should I get?
The one we use and like has the o ring on the bottom, however with the smaller breeds you may have to get a smaller one without it.
My work schedule changes weekly, can we work around that?
Yes, since we are working one-on-one and not group classes, if you need to change the day/time weekly, we will work with you as best we can. We have done this with many people in the past and it has never been a problem.
I'd like to do your In-Kennel training how do I sign up?
First please read ALL the information on the In-Kennel training. Then call for availability, and fill out and send in the In-Kennel Deposit Contract found on the In-Kennel page.
What kind of equipment do I need for Puppy Class?
You need a 6' leash appropriate for the age and breed. A thin nylon leash with a smaller snap if it is a very small pup or small breed. You do not want a heavy leather with large snap to weight the pup down. When the puppy ages you can get a nice leather leash. Also you don't want the puppy chewing on a good leather leash!! But there are thin leather leashes if you want...
Flat collar "buckle type" not the snap type !!!! Nylon or Leather
Treats anything soft, like hot dog (natural of course, non pork (my preference)), or what I like & I use... Natural Dog Food Rolls by Natural Balance. Also liver, chicken, what ever the dog LOVES!
What kind of equipment do I need for Basic Obedience Class?
Slip collar (see above) and a 6' Flat Leather or Nylon leash. Leather is better. No chain or retractable leashes. You do not want to use rolled leather or nylon leashes.
What kind of equipment do I need for Advanced Obedience Class?
Your Basic Obedience equipment we used also, a Long line, flat collar, and Tab (see tab info. above).
*Optional and highly suggested e-collar.
I need a muzzle what type do I get?
That depends on the reason for the muzzle and the type of dog.
If I have discussed this with you and told you the leather with 2 straps, for big dogs and for Aggression or Personal Protection, here is a photo.
Guaranteed training? Once every two or so years I get asked the question " Do you guarantee your training?" Well the answer to that is "If your dog is mentally and physically sound yes I can guarantee it can be trained, that is IF you do the training and homework. I cannot guarantee you will train the dog." Remember references are available let other customers tell you what they think.
