Before your Consultation
Let us know ahead of time if your dog is sensitive to visitors so we can make appropriate arrangements! There are a ton of things we can do to set your dog up for success – which can give us a great head-start on your training program.
Before we meet, we may ask for videos of your dog’s behavior. Videos can be incredibly useful – they let us analyze your dog’s behaviors much more carefully than we can in real time. That being said, videos are not worth setting your dog’s training back or risking safety.
During your Consultation
Training consultations last around 90 minutes, and can be virtual or in person. This is by far the most discussion-heavy appointment you will have with us.
- We spend the first 45-60 minutes discussing your dog’s behavior & history, as well as your training goals and expectations.
- We make a plan together for how we are going to address your dog’s behavior and work toward your goals.
- We spend the remaining time learning the first foundational pieces for your training plan – this is usually the most fun part for your dog!
- At the end of your consultation, we will have a solid idea of how many sessions you will need to meet your training goals.
- Typically, we like to book these all out at once, and aim for about 2 weeks between each session. This helps ensure that we make steady, regular progress towards your goals and that you have enough time between sessions to practice your homework.
After your Consultation
The bulk of the training in your program will happen after your consultation, during your follow-up sessions. These sessions can take place virtually, in your home, or in public places. We usually spend the first 5-10 minutes catching up on any updates before moving on to the skill building part of the session. Usually, we aim to cover 2-3 skills or topics per session.
Between your training sessions, you will have homework! This is a combination of recommended alterations to your daily routine and the addition of short, 5-10min training sessions each day. This is where most of your progress will happen! If you are having trouble completing your homework for any reason, please let us know! It’s important that you feel comfortable, capable, and motivated to do the homework between sessions – and we are here to help make that happen!
Drill Sessions / Maintenance Sessions (Optional)
Drill sessions or maintenance sessions are short sessions where we practice known skills. These last 30-45 minutes, and can take place in your home or in public. Drill sessions are an excellent way to practice your skills in a controlled environment. We are happy to bring helper dogs, human assistants, or any training equipment that you may need – just let us know ahead of time!
Training Walks / Drop-In Training (Optional)
Training walks or drop-in sessions take place in your home, often while you’re away. They last 30-45 minutes and can include practicing known skills or learning new skills. These are most beneficial in conjunction with in person sessions so that everyone stays on the same page about progress and maintaining training. Often, these come with a short video and a summary at the end of the session so you can keep up with what we are working on!
Program Graduation!
Once your training goals have been achieved, you will graduate from your program! Graduates who have completed their training program can still book training sessions, drill sessions, or training walks at any time. Graduates are also invited to join us at Training Club!
Both active students and graduates may reach out for email and phone support at any time – we are here to help!
