Getting Started
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How do I know which training program is right for my dog?
Not sure where to start? You’re not alone! Start with a complimentary Game Plan Call. We’ll learn about your dog, your goals, and what you’ve already tried, then recommend the program we believe will be the best fit for your dog and family.
Start dates depend on availability, your dog’s vaccination records, and whether an evaluation is needed. Our team will guide you through the next steps and help you find the best place to start.
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What training methods do you use?
We use force-free, science-based training and positive reinforcement. Our goal is to help dogs feel safe, build confidence, and learn better choices without fear, pain, or force.
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What vaccinations does my dog need?
Dogs must have age-appropriate vaccinations before participating in our programs.
Current requirements include:
- Distemper (may appear on records as DHPP, DHLPP, or DA2PP)
- Bordetella (Kennel cough)
- Rabies for dogs over four months
- Puppies need boosters.
Dog School
Dog School is drop-off, daily training for a well-behaved companion dog. Instead of simply providing exercise or supervision, your dog spends their day learning skills that help them become calmer, more confident, and better prepared for everyday life.
Throughout the 12-week journey, your dog receives training, enrichment, carefully selected social opportunities, potty breaks, and rest.
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How is Dog School different from daycare?
Daycare primarily focuses on play and exercise. Dog School is focused on building real-life skills such as manners, confidence, focus, leash walking, settling, recall, and impulse control.
Your dog’s activities are intentionally planned and supervised. Dog School is not a large-group free-for-all. Everything your dog does has a purpose.
Dog School is a 12-week program. The consistency and repetition throughout the program help your dog build skills that can carry over into everyday life.
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When are Dog School drop-off and pickup?
Drop-off is between 7:00 and 9:00 AM, and pickup is between 4:00 and 6:00 PM.
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How many days per week will my dog attend?
Dog School is available two, three, or four days per week. We’ll recommend a schedule based on your dog’s age, energy level, goals, and training needs.
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Do we have to use the same days every week?
Most dogs do best with a routine, so committing to the same days each week sets them up for success. You’ll choose regular training days between Monday and Thursday. If you occasionally need to switch a day, let our team know and we’ll help when space allows.
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What happens if we go on vacation?
Let us know ahead of time and we’ll put the 12-week program on a brief pause until you’re back.
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What happens during a Dog School evaluation?
The evaluation is a half-day visit that helps us determine whether Dog School is the right fit for your dog. We’ll see how your dog handles the facility, crate rest, handling, distractions, separation, and the presence of other dogs. Your dog does not need to already know commands, but prior crate training can make them much more comfortable.
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What happens if Dog School is not the right fit?
We’ll be honest about what we observe and recommend a safer or more helpful training option.
Our goal is to find the right support for your dog and family, not force your dog into an environment that isn’t the right fit.
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Will my dog get to socialize and play with other dogs?
Yes, when it benefits your dog and supports their training goals.
Dog-to-dog interactions during Dog School are carefully selected and supervised. Dog School is not a playgroup or free-for-all.
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Does my dog need to be crate trained?
Dogs have individual spaces, crates, where they can rest between activities so their bodies and brains can recharge. Puppies do not need to be fully crate trained before starting. For older dogs, we’ll consider their comfort with resting in a crate during the evaluation.
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Will my dog still listen to me if someone else trains them?
Absolutely! Your dog will practice with different trainers and in different areas so they learn the skill, not just how to respond to one person or place. We’ll also help you continue those skills at home.
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How involved do I need to be?
We handle much of the repetition required for learning during Dog School, but short practice at home helps create lasting progress. You don’t need to spend hours training every day. A few minutes of consistent practice can make a big difference.
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Will Dog School help with behaviors happening at home?
Dog School teaches real-life skills such as settling, recall, leash walking, polite greetings, focus, and impulse control, so you can skip over the teaching phase and focus on implementing those skills at home. Consistent practice at home is important for seeing a difference in your dog’s behavior at home.
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Can you work on problems between dogs in my home?
Our private lesson package may be a better fit if you’re experiencing problems between your dogs in the home. Dog School can build helpful skills, but we cannot directly work on interactions between household dogs unless both dogs are part of an approved training plan.
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How will I know what my dog is learning?
We’ll keep you updated on your dog’s training and progress.
You’ll get a brief recap of your dog’s day when you arrive to pick them up, as well as weekly report cards to keep track of what they’ve been working on.
Group Classes
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What happens if I miss a group class?
You don’t have to fall behind! If your pup must miss class for health reasons, you can still attend without them or review the lesson online. Because each class follows a set schedule, we do not offer makeup classes, transfers, discounts, or refunds for missed sessions.
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Can my spouse or another family member attend?
We love when families train together! Who can attend may depend on the class, available space, and the participant’s age. Please check with our team if there will be more than 2 people per dog - we want to make sure we have enough chairs for everyone!
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How long are group classes?
Most group classes run for six weeks, with one 45-minute class each week.
Some specialty classes may have a different schedule, so please check the class description when registering.
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What should I bring to my first group class?
Please bring:
- Your pup wearing a secure collar or harness
- A standard, non-retractable leash
- Plenty of small, high-value treats
- A treat pouch or easy-to-reach bag
- Any class-specific items listed in your welcome email
Most importantly, bring your patience and willingness to have fun with your pup! 😊
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Is a group class right for a reactive dog?
It depends on your dog’s comfort around people and other dogs.
We’ll help you determine whether a group class is appropriate or whether your dog would feel more successful with private Behavior Coaching.
Support at Home
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How much homework will I have?
We keep practice short and realistic.
A few consistent 5–10 minute practice sessions worked into everyday life can make a big difference. We focus on progress, not perfection.
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What if I have questions between sessions?
Support depends on your program and may include trainer communication, online lessons, report cards, group classes, or coaching calls.
We’ll explain everything included before you enroll.
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Can my family participate in training?
Absolutely! Training works best when the whole household understands the plan.
Participation may depend on the program, available space, and the age of each family member.
Pricing & Payment
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How much does training cost?
The investment depends on your dog’s needs, the program recommended, and the support included.
We offer options ranging from online programs at $49/month and group classes to private Behavior Coaching and Dog School.
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Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Depending on the program, payment options may include:
- Paying in full
- An in-house payment plan
- Outside pet financing for approved applicants
Our team will review the current options with you.
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What is included in the price?
Each program includes different training and support.
Before you enroll, we’ll clearly explain the program length, training format, owner support, and everything included in your investment.
A Deeper Understanding of Dog School
We get a lot of questions about the format of Dog School, how and why we use crates, and the benefits of what we do. So we rolled all those FAQs into one helpful resource!
