What should I do before an at-home behavioral assessment?

No need for any special actions beyond what you'd normally do when meeting someone new. Optimal understanding of the behavior and the dog's home dynamics comes from observing things as they are. Nevertheless, it's advisable to have a leash and a supply of high-value treats within reach.

Should your dog exhibit fear, hesitation, or signs of aggression, kindly inform me beforehand, allowing me to come equipped with specialized Fear Free® techniques.

IMPORTANT: For the safety and wellbeing of all involved, any dogs displaying aggression towards humans with a past bite history are required to have undergone proper muzzle training. During our assessment, it is mandatory that a dog like this is appropriately muzzled. Regrettably, failure to adhere to this pivotal safety protocol will result in the unfortunate necessity to cancel the service, and a penalty fee of $100 will apply. Your kind understanding and cooperation in this matter are sincerely valued.

Do you use only “positive” training methods?

I first start off every training with positive reinforcement. Some dogs are very sensitive, shy, and fearful - those dogs would not be trained the same way that a very leash reactive, leash pulling, extremely high sprung dog would be trained. I do not use dominance downs or alpha roll training that break a dog’s spirit - instead I help build their confidence to make the correct choices with various teaching tools. All those will be discussed with you prior to use and at your comfort level.
Please see the link to an in depth explanation by Leerburg on training methods https://leerburg.com/allpositive.htm

How many sessions will it take to train my dog?

The journey to training varies significantly for each unique dog and client, given the distinct needs and preferences that come into play. If the aim is to achieve a meticulously trained dog or if the dog grapples with profound behavioral challenges, it's important to acknowledge that more than a few sessions might be necessary. While each lesson can certainly cover a handful of commands and behavior adjustments, the key lies in gradually introducing and reinforcing training for lasting impact.

In some cases, clients seek the reassurance of gauging their progress in their dog's training journey, and that's where I come in to offer guidance and support. The timeline of this entire process hinges upon the dog owner's commitment, patience, determination, and grasp of the training dynamics.

I am looking for someone to just train my dog without any input from me or my family. Can you do this?

Regrettably, that's not a service I provide. As the owner, you hold a crucial role in comprehending how to interact with your pet and cater to their entire emotional and physical requirements. While I do conduct sessions where owners may not be present, it's important to recognize that the ongoing maintenance of the training necessitates active participation from your family in order to sustain the achieved results.

My dog shows aggression toward humans/animals and has bitten x an x amount of times?

I currently do not work with dogs displaying severe aggression towards humans or animals, especially those with a history of multiple bites.
I do work with dogs showing fear, stress, or anxiety reactivity and resource guarding.

If you find your dog's aggression to be extreme, please schedule a visit to a veterinary behaviorist, explore resources at Michael Shikashio’s Aggressivedog.com, or find a local trainer near you who specializes in extreme aggression cases.

Do you train guard dogs or personal protection dogs?

I do not train guard or personal protection dogs. Human handlers of police canines or other working dogs are highly trained and assessed. I strongly believe that this is not the role (or capability) of an average dog owner. If interested in protection or guard training reach out to a facility specializing in these tasks.

What training tools, harnesses, collars, etc. should I buy?

Tools will be discussed depending on your individual dog’s needs.

How are payments made?

Payments are required the day of appointment (after the appointment takes place). You will receive an invoice after each service. I take payments via Square online through the portal you will have access to, Venmo, or Cash.

Is extra time required for my appointment?

I aim to be on time to all my appointments. However, due to unforeseen circumstances or traffic I ask all clients to allow 10 minutes before and/or after appointments as I’m traveling from one client to another.