FAQ

What makes your way different?

Our approach to dog training stands out because we prioritize transforming a dog’s state of mind. Our techniques not only effectively address problem behaviors but also cultivate a sense of calmness in dogs, enabling them to make better choices overall. If you've experienced frustration with ineffective training methods and are eager to learn how to be an outstanding advocate and leader who encourages your dog to consistently exhibit their best behavior, then we are the ideal dog trainers for you! Our strategies do not heighten excitability; instead, we guide dogs to achieve calmness on command through duration work while nurturing impulse control. We are dedicated to delivering real solutions and tangible results, and we are fully committed to your success!

Why Choose Prong Collars?

While prong collars may appear harsh at first glance, they are, in fact, among the most considerate tools available for connecting and communicating with dogs. Don't be swayed by appearances or the well-intentioned but misguided opinions of others. Prong collars provide a safe, effective, and humane method for guiding and interacting with dogs, utilizing minimal pressure for maximum results.

Do you use food and treats to train

In our training program, we seldom employ treats; instead, we find it more effective to reward positive behavior with the dog’s regular food. Earning their meals is an integral aspect of our foundational training. While using food can be advantageous in rehabilitating dogs that are aggressive towards humans, those that guard resources, or dogs that are extremely unmotivated, we firmly believe that dogs should not develop a dependency on food as a motivator! We systematically phase out food rewards before the dog transitions back home, ensuring they learn to respond to people out of respect and habitual behavior rather than simply for a tasty reward. Our goal is to have dogs seek our guidance, rather than focusing on our hands and what they might contain when determining if a task is worthwhile. For instance, your dog should come when called regardless of whether you have food, whether they are hungry, or whether they are preoccupied with distractions; thus, you cannot rely solely on treats. Our approach centers on fostering calmer dogs that are equipped to make thoughtful decisions, which is why we minimize reliance on food, as it can often lead to heightened excitement, fixation, and anxiety. Our work prioritizes building calm, respectful, and trust-filled relationships with clear communication at the forefront. Food can significantly hinder that vital process.

What methods do you use? Do you use corrections?

A comprehensive approach to dog training and behavior modification focuses strongly on positive reinforcement while equipping you with the tools and knowledge needed to discern when and how to correctly discipline your dog.

One of the cornerstones of our success lies in our commitment to seeing the world through a dog’s eyes, prioritizing their needs over our inclinations. Our training philosophy is rooted in the science of animal learning and cognition and respects the instinctual characteristics of dogs.

As balanced dog trainers, we possess a full suite of strategies and techniques, enabling us to effectively address each unique situation.

We draw upon the laws of nature and the comprehensive science of learning and behavior modification (not merely the easy, entertaining, or well-meaning aspects) as our guiding principles to assist both people and their dogs. We predominantly use positive reinforcement to encourage behaviors we want (95% of the time), but when it comes to curtailing behaviors we would rather avoid, it is perfectly acceptable (and necessary) to assert a ‘no’ to your dog and implement clear consequences to reinforce the significance of the word ‘no.’ Once a dog has been adequately taught a command yet chooses to ignore it, a correction is warranted. This approach is beneficial. By clearly demonstrating what both yes AND no signify, we provide our dogs with much-needed clarity and fairness. Understanding the concepts of rewards and corrections is vital so that the dog comprehensively recognizes what behaviors are acceptable and which are not. By saying no, we clarify the situation for our dogs, preventing them from being unsure about how to behave or what is permissible.

Turning a blind eye to unwanted behaviors is not the answer. Relying solely on positive reinforcement is insufficient for eradicating undesirable behaviors. That’s where corrections come into play. Is it compassionate to leave dogs entangled in fear, anxiety, and stress while their owners struggle? Clearly, it is more humane to promptly and decisively address bad behaviors, enabling both you and your dog to thrive and enjoy life together. For the well-being and affection of dogs, we are as gentle as possible, yet firm when necessary.

How are corrections executed? Calmly. The process is straightforward and matter-of-fact—never rooted in emotion, anger, or frustration. This is essential for any dog’s effective learning. We say “yes” to encourage desired behaviors and also “no” to discourage inappropriate ones. Our methods are clear, straightforward, fair, logical, scientific, natural, and effective. By employing corrections with care and systematic precision, we retain the benefits of reliability while eliminating problematic behaviors without imposing undue stress or discomfort on the dog. Applying corrections properly does NOT foster long-term aggression or a dislike toward you from your dog. Rather, it promotes a clear understanding of what behaviors are permissible and what aren’t, establishing trust as your dog learns to rely on you for guidance and permission, knowing you are in control of the circumstances.

Can You Really Help My Challenging Dog?

Absolutely! Whether your dog struggles during walks—pulling, barking, growling, lunging, or exhibiting extreme prey drive—or experiences serious leash reactivity (displaying aggression towards other dogs, cars, bicycles, skateboards, etc.), we have tailored strategies to address even the toughest dog walking challenges. If your dog jumps on people, snatches food from countertops, has been involved in fights with other dogs, barks excessively, damages furniture, rummages through the trash, is timid, or suffers from separation anxiety—rest assured, the answer is YES! We can assist you.

We specialize in addressing a wide array of behavioral issues in dogs, and our effective techniques are suitable for any breed, regardless of age, size, history, behavior problem, or training level. Whether your dog is assertive, mischievous, demanding, has selective hearing, experiences fear or anxiety, or is merely a young puppy needing guidance, we are dedicated to supporting you!

Our mission is to teach both humans and dogs effective communication techniques so they can lead fulfilling lives together. We're committed to helping you forge a stronger bond with your dog. We offer a practical approach to dog training—delivering tangible solutions in real-world environments with real distractions. We empower dog owners facing diverse behavior challenges and specialize in behavior modification for dogs struggling with fear, anxiety, and leash reactivity. Additionally, we provide foundational obedience training while guiding owners in fostering a calm, balanced mentality with their pets.

We prioritize holistic, integrated care. When addressing behavioral concerns, we evaluate your dog's overall lifestyle. Just like humans, dogs require ample mental stimulation and physical exercise to thrive and remain happy. A deficit in these areas can lead to dissatisfaction and frustration, resulting in various behavioral issues. We analyze your dog's essential needs, factoring in their breed characteristics, energy levels, and unique temperaments, and together, we can create a lifestyle that enhances their well-being. Resolving dog-related issues often necessitates comprehensive lifestyle adjustments. By establishing a consistent routine at home, we can mitigate a wide array of challenging behaviors. Reach out to learn more.

What tools do you use ?

The greatest tool we have is patience and it’s the one we reach for most often. Some of the other tools we use include affection, attention, gestures and spatial pressure, verbal cues, treadmill, dog cots/mats, and crates. We also use the dog’s daily food, clickers, slip leads, regular leashes, long lines, regular flat collars, remote collars, prong collars, muzzles, physical touch, verbal praise, slow feed bowls, (doorbells, skateboards, shopping carts, umbrellas and other real-world distractions), toys, play, activities, and socialization around new environments and situations with dogs and people. We also make use of anything that motivates your dog (e.g. desire to go outside, natural curiosity, etc.)

Keep in mind that tools don’t train dogs. Each dog training tools is like a new language that we can teach a dog. Great tools simply allow us to communicate more effectively with dogs while training them. We carefully choose tools that help us to do that clearly and safely. The two types of training collars that we most commonly recommend are prong collars, and remote training collars because of their versatility, efficiency and effectiveness of communication, the safety of the equipment, and the ease of use for the owner. In other words, they are the best option for most dogs and in the most situations.