FAQ’s and Resources

What kind of training methods do you use?

I train all of the species I work with via positive reinforcement. This training method is backed by the latest research in animal behavioral science. It has proven the most effective way to train an animal with the fewest adverse side effects.

I’ve tried training with treats before, but it didn’t work. What’s different about your training?

Although training with treats may seem simple, behavior is quite complex, and there is more to training than just giving your pet a treat when you tell it to sit. In my training, I take a holistic approach and address all factors contributing to your dog’s behavioral health. I work closely with you to set everyone up for the best possible success.

Do I have to use a clicker and treats?

Although a clicker can be very helpful for precision training, it is unnecessary. If we need to mark your dog’s behavior, we can use another signal instead of the clicker.

Treats are easy to use and almost always reinforcing, so we use them frequently. However, many animals will also work for toys, attention, and other life rewards. Over time, we reduce the number of treats we use as your dog becomes skilled in the behaviors he’s learning.

What happens if my pet makes a mistake?

If your dog makes a mistake, we’ll reset and try again. If they struggle to do what we want, we’ll reevaluate our training protocols and change whatever we need to to help them find the correct answer. At no time will we ever use any physical correction on your dog. Your pet is the learner, and we are the teachers—the onus is on us to ensure they can succeed.

How will my dog know when they’re being bad?

Believe it or not, withholding a treat, toy, or our attention is enough for your dog to learn when they’re not doing what we want. If they still do things we don’t like, we’ll use a combination of management, redirection, reinforcement for the right behaviors, and withholding reinforcement for the wrong ones. Your dog will learn to stick to the behaviors that result in the most reinforcement.

Will I have to practice for hours every day?

Heavens no! Who has the time?! I will show you how to incorporate training into your everyday activities. This way, every interaction is a training opportunity, and you’ll get in the habit of always noticing and reinforcing your dog’s good behaviors without having to set aside extra time for training.

How long will it take to train my dog to behave the way I want?

Training time varies greatly depending on what behaviors you want your dog to learn, how much undesirable behavior already exists, how long your dog has practiced those undesirable behaviors, and how much effort and consistency you’re willing to put into helping your dog learn. During our initial consultation, we’ll review all of your goals together and set realistic expectations as to how long each goal might take to reach.

Do you guarantee your training?

I guarantee that I will support you throughout your training journey with your dog, employing my education and experience to help you achieve the best possible outcome for everyone. Still, I cannot guarantee a specific behavioral outcome because our dogs’ behavior is affected by so many variables, including your own behavior.