Do you guarantee your work?

I take pride in the work that I do, and greatly enjoy providing my clients with the tools to help them reach success. However, it would be unethical for me to guarantee 100% success if the owner is not committed to continuing the work after my part of the training is completed. Part of the tools I provide include laying out a plan to continue the pup’s education after formal training is done. If that plan is not followed, or it wavers, the dog’s success will most likely waver with it. Therefore, it is up to you to guarantee the work, as I can only give you the education to get there. I am always available for continued training and support should you find it needed.

What are the methods of training you use?

Every dog thrives with positive reinforcement. What we need to keep in mind is, every dog learns differently, and it would be a disservice to them to ignore that. Just like there are no identical snowflakes, no identical people, and no identical fingerprints, there are no identical dogs (even within breeds). I train the dog in front of me, depending on what type of service you are inquiring about, and what the dog’s needs are. With that being said, if your dog has a certain behaviour that needs to be interrupted, I will give you the proper tools and knowledge on how to do that. My training is not a “one size fits all” method, or a “quick fix”. I believe in finding a balance that allows the owner and dog to thrive and live a fulfilled life together.

Is there a cancellation or rescheduling policy?

Sessions may be cancelled or rescheduled with 48 hours notice. If it is last minute there will be a cancellation fee. Reschedules do sometimes happen from time to time, however, after 3 reschedules there will also be a rescheduling fee.

My dog listens better to you and not me, why?

Your dog is usually used to getting away with certain things in your presence, or they know you won’t follow through with what you ask. From the first moment I come into your home to work with you and your dog I establish rules, boundaries and respect - so your dog hasn’t had the chance to get away with things with me. Don’t take offense to this, just make sure that you stay consistent with everything I teach you, make sure that you remain patient and make things clear with your dog while they learn that the rules have taken a new turn with you as well.

Does age or breed matter?

In terms of age, an older dog may take a little more time and effort to train, as they have already developed habits and routines that they may need to be worked out of. In terms of breed, as stated above, every dog learns different. So, that being said, we will train the dog in front of us. Breed mostly matters in terms of genetic similarities. Such as border collies being herding dogs, it being a natural instinct for them to herd. We will not “break” your dog’s spirit. Rather, we will teach them how to channel their instincts properly.

Do you service areas outside of Edmonton?

Yes, depending on how far out you are there may be an extra travel fee. I service all of Edmonton, including surrounding areas such as: Leduc, Beaumont, Devon, Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Spruce Grove, and St. Albert.

What age do you recommend I start training my puppy?

From the moment your dog comes home you should train for the dog you want, instead the puppy you currently have. Training is usually looked at as teaching them sit, down, stay, etc. but training is so much more! Start out by teaching your dog expectations inside the home, crate training, potty training, bite inhibition (play with toys, not your hands), that staying close to you is extremely rewarding (think of recall and walking on leash). Socialization is a big one with puppies as well, when they’re 8 weeks old taking them places (safe places as per vaccines) is good to get them acclimated to being a dog. People are always scared to take their puppy out of the home before it has all it’s shots. However, you can still take them to clean and safe places like friend’s/family’s homes. I do NOT recommend socializing any dog of any age at the dog park. If your dog is not socialized they should not be in that type of environment, it is detrimental to their progress. Puppies should (if you must) attend dog parks/daycares starting at no less than 9 months (in my personal opinion) because by this time they have developed their own personalities and are less likely to pick up unwanted habits.

Can I pay per session?

While I previously allowed clients to pay per session with packages, I no longer will be able to allow this. I need to make a living and when I am shorted pay it prevents me from paying my bills and being able to live. If you have agreed upon a package of sessions you are required to pay that amount in full at the time of our first session. There will be no refunds for unused sessions, as there are a certain number of sessions recommended per package for a reason. If you’re starting to see your dog progress halfway through, excellent! We must finish the sessions in order to solidify your dog’s newfound behaviours!

This training seems like a lot of work!

Yes, training is a lifestyle change for not only your dog, but you as well! If you want to see your dog blossom you must commit to making the changes required in order to see the difference! If my requirements seem like a lot, then I’m not the trainer for you. I need my clients to be as dedicated to the work they put into their dog as I am. You get out of training what you put in.