FAQs
What kind of payments do you accept?
We accept cash, check or VENMO @Kathy-Forthman
Do you offer a free initial consult?
No, but you are welcome to observe a group class one time (without your dog) before signing up. Please ask us when would be a good day to observe.
Do you offer a refund?
We do not offer refunds once the session has started.
What tools can I use in dog training sessions or classes?
We allow flat collars, nylon martingale collars, harnesses, head halters, and 4 or 6 foot leashes. We do not allow: retractable leashes, prong collars, choke collars, e-collars/stim collars.
Why do puppies have to complete puppy class by the time they are 16 weeks old?
Because the prime time for socialization is before the age of 16 weeks — when a puppy is most open to new people, places and things. We include off leash play as part of puppy class because of this. Beyond 16 weeks we do not feel including off leash play is as critical.
What vaccinations are required to participate in group classes?
For puppy class, we require at least the first set of distemper/parvo vaccine (DAPP) which is usually given at 6 weeks. We require this vaccine be given by a licensed veterinarian or reviewed by a veterinarian. Puppies need to have vaccines at least 5-7 days before beginning puppy class. For any other class, we require DAPP and rabies (or a titer test showing current immunity). Most veterinarians also highly recommend the kennel cough vaccine (bordatella) for dogs participating in group classes.
What is positive reinforcement training/force-free training?
This type of training rewards the dog when they get it right and redirects or teaches an alternate behavior for undesirable things like jumping on people. We do not train using any types of punishment (hitting, yelling, prong collars, e-collars) and instead use rewards to train the dog. Many, many studies have shown that reward-based force-free methods create a better bond between owner and dog, help dogs learn faster, and have less negative, long-term consequences (fear).
What types of dogs do not do well in a group class?
Dogs who present with severe fear about other dogs and/or people, or dogs who have aggression or reactivity towards dogs or people are not good candidates for a group dog training class. These type of dogs learn much more effectively in a private session. *Reactivity describes dogs who bark, lunge, growl at other dogs or people while on leash.
How can I reserve a spot in a group class?
By paying in full via cash, check or VENMO, your spot is secure. We do not offer online registration for classes. Review the Class Schedule to find open classes and then send us your Registration Inquiry form. Once we confirm the class with you, your spot is reserved with your payment.
Can I come to observe a class?
We are happy to have you observe one class without your dog before signing up, but please ask us when would be a good day to observe.
Can children attend group classes? How many humans can attend class with each dog?
Due to space constraints, we allow 2 humans to attend with each dog. We are happy to have children of the appropriate age attend with their dog. We have found children under the age of 7/8 cannot sit still for an hour long class and not be disruptive to their parent.
What is the normal progression through the different class levels?
If you bring a young puppy into your family, we highly encourage you to enroll in our Puppy Right Start class as long as he/she has had their first round of distemper/parvo vaccine at least a week before the first class. If you bring an older puppy or adult dog into your family, Basic Manners is the correct group class to begin with. Recommended progression:
Puppy Right Start
Basic Manners
Focus & Fun
Intermediate Manners
Community Canine
Any Fun Class (Scent, Tricks, etc)