Frequently Asked Questions

• Start by filling out our contact form and tell us about your dog!
• Once we hear from you, we'll ask you to provide your dog's vet records and then schedule a behavior consultation.
• Consultations are typically 2 hours, sometimes longer depending on your dog, and are conducted at our home training facility. We will first observe & evaluate your dog's behaviors and how you interact with your dog. We'll then discuss your dog's behaviors and what you've been doing so far. You'll find out "why is my dog doing that?" and what will be needed to help your dog.
  Once we complete your dog's assessment, we will discuss your training options. Which training tools, methods, and program will be best for you and your dog will be determined during your consultation. Whether you choose to move forward and sign up or not, you will leave with invaluable information about your dog from a trusted professional.
  Consultation fee: $49
  Available by appointment only, no walk-ins

Please know that while we do our best to accommodate everyone, as our calendar fills up there may be a wait, especially for weekends and during holidays. Actual availability, and which training program will be best for you, will be determined during your consultation and is contingent upon when you sign up.

Consultations and initial dog training lessons are conducted at our home training facility where we are better equipped to help you and can control the environment and any distractions, much like your veterinarian. Should you later need additional help at home after completing our training program, exceptions may be made and are determined solely by our trainer.

Dropping off your dog for a day of training rarely provides any results. Most dogs simply revert back to old behaviors when they return home. This is similar to how children will behave well at school, but display bratty behaviors at home. You will want to be involved in training your dog if you want to achieve results at home.

Yes! At no time will anything be used that will harm your dog or your relationship with your dog in any way. That said, there are many differences of opinion on how to train dogs, what is harmful and what is not. There are actions which appear to some as good and to others as bad. This is the nature of humanity. Be sure to check out videos of us working with dogs just like yours on our YouTube channel. You can also read what our clients are saying about us on our Reviews page and on Google.

Our preferred methods are based on relationship building with the use of food, toys, praise and affection. However we routinely work with dogs that other trainers have turned away because not all dogs are motivated by these rewards. Many who come to us are at their wits end having already worked with several other dog trainers, with no significant results. We feel that all dogs deserve a chance, and we will use whatever methods and tools are appropriate to help your dog. While we focus on positive-reinforcement and reward-based methods, we also use the other three quadrants of operant conditioning along with classical and counter conditioning, behavior modification, and conditioned relaxation protocols. Along with praise, treats, balls and toys, we also use crates, slip‑leads, prong collars, muzzles, and (electric) e‑collars, just to name a few. Which training methods and tools will be used will be answered during your consultation after we have observed your dog. You can learn more by reading "Science-Based Dog Training".

Know that we are not a kennel facility, so we are able to give you and your dog the attention you need so you can successfully practice and maintain your dog's training between lessons. Most dog trainers will teach basic commands but they are not able to resolve difficult behaviors, nor do they offer any additional help after you complete their course. We'll help you to resolve your dog's unwanted behaviors, help your dog to behave in real world situations, and provide you with lifetime support to ensure your happiness and success!

Training dogs at the same time can be counterproductive and not conducive toward learning. It is best to train dogs separately at first so they don't get distracted by each other and don't compete for your attention. Once they reliably follow commands, you can work them together.

This will be determined during your dog's evaluation. Most are able to acheive results with 6 weekly lessons or a 3 week board & train. However, while some issues can be resolved during the first few lessons, we can't ask your dog to hurry up and behave. Just like humans, some dogs learn quickly while others require more time and patience. How quickly your dog progresses will also depend on your willingness and ability to commit to training your dog. Follow-up lessons are always encouraged so you can reinforce your dog's training and get answers to any new questions you may have. If you don't practice and maintain your dog's training, you should expect your dog to revert back to old behaviors. Should you have a dog with challenging behaviors that require additional help, we provide lifetime support.

For dog training to be successful, you must first recognize that what you have been doing so far has not been working. You are going to have to make changes if you want different results. You and your entire family will need to follow our dog training program without modification, no shortcuts. Practice everyday with your dog and you will see your dog transform into a dog you can be proud of. Be sure to check out videos of us working with dogs just like yours on our YouTube channel. You can also read what our clients are saying about us on our Reviews page and on Google.

Our dog training methods work for most dogs, however no form of dog training can guarantee that your dog will be 100% perfect or never be naughty again. Factors such as your dog's health and free will, your compliance with a training program, as well as other environmental influences are beyond our control so it is impossible to guarantee perfection. It would be unethical to do so. What we can promise you is lifetime support so you and your dog will continue to be happy and successful.

Our goal is always to help you achieve results in as short a time as possible. Nobody wants their dog training to be endless. However if follow-up lessons are required, they are free of charge and will be conducted at Paws To Train Your Dog or a location chosen by your trainer. Lifetime Support lasts for as long as you own your dog and maintain your dog's training.

All we expect from you is to be excited and committed to training your dog and as long as you follow our training program without modification, we'll keep working with you and your dog for as long as you need.

You can get an idea of approximate costs by taking a look at our Dog Training Programs. Know that we do not provide cheap and quick fixes, there is plenty of that on the internet, and we do not offer dog training per lesson as it is never effective in producing desired results. Actual training costs and which program will be best for you and your dog are determined only after your dog has been evaluated and is based on your dog's behaviors.

Saying no is always difficult as we want to help as many dogs as we can. However we do take credit cards, including prepaid VISA or Mastercard gift cards.

There are no refunds unless we are unable to fulfill our obligations. In extenuating circumstances, to be determined solely by our head trainer, a partial refund might be granted if supporting evidence of circumstances is provided. Any refunds granted are subject to service fees.

Know that your dog will not be left alone after closing time, and we do not provide a "cage-free" environment as this creates opportunities for escapes, practicing unwanted behaviors, and dog fights. When unsupervised, all dogs are crated in our home, otherwise your dogs will enjoy playing, training, and relaxing with our family. While our training facility is also our home, we follow cleaning and sanitation protocols similar to shelters and kennel facilities to help ensure we maintain a healthy environment for your dogs. All poop is picked up immediately - the moment it drops, it gets picked up. Dogs are not allowed to share bowls, beds, and crates. Dog bowls are washed each day. Crates and floors are cleaned weekly or as needed using a dilute solution of BestShot 256 (1:256) and bleach (1:64). Should medical attention be required, we are CPR and safety educated, and 5 min from the nearest animal hospital. Our property has several cameras and AC units to ensure your furry family companions are monitored and comfortable.

It is best to not visit your dog during this time to avoid creating anxiety in your dog each time you leave. So you can observe how your dog is doing, we will share photos & videos of your dog's progress on our social media pages. Know that all visits require an appointment to avoid causing unnecessary disruptions.

No, as this type of training is not for everyone, nor is it suited for all dogs. We've seen many pet dogs that were properly protection trained end up no longer being trustworthy because the owners could not maintain the training despite their good intentions. Know that if your dog were to bite someone who was not a threat, you will be held liable. We recommend instead personal safety or martial arts courses and adjusting your lifestyle to make your situation less attractive to bad people.

Not at this time. Know that dogs with behavior issues such as fear, anxiety, or aggression, will not make good candidates. Google "service dog requirements" to learn more.