Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What if I feel like my dog is too Aggressive or shy to be in a group setting? (Leash Reactive, Dog-to-Dog, Dog-to-People, Resource Guarding, Fence Fighting, shyness, etc)?'

A: Many dogs are reactive to a situation like strange people or on leash or Barrier greetings. This is better described as a dog who perceives a "threat" and becomes reactive to stop the threat from coming any closer (It is a coping skill that the dog has developed to "save" it's self. Or at least that is what the dog is thinking in it's mind).

Explained: Even the most reactive dog can be successfully introduced to a previously unthinkable situation,  if done by someone who has experience in doing so. I have several years of Dog Daycare introductions and I have worked with many clients who have come to me to do just that..... so I am confident that I can help. If you have serious concerns, I would be willing to do a "30min/in-office" evaluation for $45. This will allow me to see your concerns, plus I will apply the fee towards a membership if you wish to sign up for a class. 


Q: What is your training approach and philosophy? 

A: I help you understand what is involved with making real change in your dog's life by changing your approach to training. I offer an Orientation night that will change the way you look at your training approach and help you understand "The Language of Dogs". Once you better understand and can work with your dog, the faster and more solid the change will be. You cannot "will" something to get better. You must learn how to understand the reason for the problem, and then fix it. Are you ready? I am here each step to help you make it happen. 

Basic obedience commands such as "Sit", "Down", "Come", and "Stay" are achieved by using “lures” and “shaping”. Students will use positive reinforcement for successive approximations of each correct response the dog gives. Owners are encouraged to use, and will be show how to use, hand signals. This allows dogs to freely choose to do each behavior with encouragement and limited corrections. 

Behavioral concerns such as ; destructive behaviors, potty training, jumping, barking and any other unwanted behaviors, are best corrected and prevented with a greater understanding of your dogs basic needs. Orientation class will help familiarize you with those needs and get you on the path for addressing any issues as they come up. 

Behavioral modification for things such as resource guarding(food aggression etc.) , aggression towards other dogs or people, and any major behavioral concern can also be corrected and prevented by learning why your dog does these behaviors and how to go about making improvements in your daily life. My Canine behavioral camps and my group classes will provide apple time to explore and work with a wide variety of issues. I have worked with everything under the sun. Aggression (dog/people/resources) is fixable! There are no lost dogs, just unwilling change. 

Q: Are children welcome in the classes? 

A: Yes, the whole family is welcome and encouraged to attend our Orientation Night and regular Levels classes. Children under 10 may be too young to pay attention and understand the training approaches. Please find child care if you have young children. It is important that you are able to focus on the information given out during our time together.   

All children are asked not to interact with the other dogs and must remain beside an adult at all times. No children allowed in our Feisty Fido's or Cautious Canine dog camps please.  

Q: How old does my dog have to be to come to class?

A: I prefer your puppy is at least 4-5 months. All dogs must be up to date on all vaccinations (Please consult with your veterinarian).

Training concerns earlier than 4 months old can be accomplished by e-mailing me at [email protected] 
That way I can begin giving you tips and ideas on things that you can start working on in the short term. I offer many resources and share with you lots of helpful tips that will get you through those wonderful, but sometimes frustrating and difficult times.