Question 1

What makes you different from the pet store training classes?

Accepted Answer

We specialize solely in dog behavior and training. All of our Instructors have extensive educational backgrounds in canine behavior, are Certified Professional Dog Trainers through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) and have been teaching dogs and their people collectively for many decades. Read about our Instructors here.

Question 2

Do you offer a service where you'll take my pup or dog for a period of time and train him/her for me?

Accepted Answer

This type of service is usually referred to as "board and train" or "boot camp", and no, we do not. We do offer in-home training and behavior consultation services, to teach you how to teach your dog, but we do not take the dog from you, nor do we do the training for you.

**We want to caution anyone considering sending their dog away for training, that we are NOT aware of any such services available in our area except places that use harsh methods e.g. prong/choke/shock collars. 
It is your responsibility to know exactly what your dog will endure in the name of training should you decide to have someone else do it for you -be sure you really know what's going to go on. It would be a good idea to keep in mind that if the promises made by someone who's going to train your dog for you sound "too good to be true" they probably are.  Here's an article that outlines a few very good reasons you'd be wise to really think twice before you make the decision to send your dog away for someone else to train: http://ferndogtraining.com/why-sending-your-dog-away-for-training-doesnt-work/
 
If you are thinking about sending your dog away for training, please give us a call before you decide - there are much simpler and safer options to consider!

Question 3

Do you offer in-home help?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
 
This information applies to private in-home help for "basic" training challenges (such as house training, mouthing, chewing, loose leash walking, coming when called, counter surfing, etc.) only.  If you're looking for help with aggressive behavior click here or call us for more information.
 
Details and what you can expect from a private consultation for basic training challenges:
 
* Your consultant will typically meet with you and your dog at your home. In some cases, your session can take place at our facility in Troy.

* The fee for an in-home training appointment is $125.00 per hour for appointments scheduled during a weekday.
* The Saturday appointment fee is $135.00 per hour.
 
**Your initial appointment will last approximately 90 minutes. Subsequent visits if necessary or desired, will last approximately 1 hour in length - fees apply as outlined above

* Note: If you live more than 10 miles one-way from our Troy facility, mileage and drive-time charges may apply

* A customized written summary of your consultation and behavior change plan is available to you for an additional fee of $125.00 over and above the private consultation fee.  If opted for, this will be provided to you via email, the next business day following your appointment.

* If you do not choose the customized written summary option, general training guidelines and information will be provided to you via email the next business day following your appointment.  You are strongly encouraged to take thorough notes during your consultation appointment.
 
* Email and phone follow-up with your consultant is provided for 6 weeks after your appointment, at no charge. 
 
* Payment is due at the end of each session/s. Check, cash, or Visa/MC/Discover cards accepted.
 
* If you've decided to proceed, please either reply to this email, or give us a call at 248.588.3222. We'll send you a Behavior History Questionnaire to complete as the next step.

Thanks again for contacting us for help!  Please let us know if you have any questions, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Question 4

What areas do you cover for private in-home training services?

Accepted Answer

Most of Oakland County and parts of Macomb County. **Note; If you live more that 10 miles one-way from our facility, mileage & drive time charges may apply.

Question 5

I live outside of your service area. Can you help me locate an experienced positive reinforcement training professional in my area?

Accepted Answer

Yes! See below for a list of organization websites with search features to help you find a qualified professional in your area.  This list is comprised of organizations where membership guarantees the use of scientifically sound, positive reinforcement-based techniques: 
 
Truly Dog Friendly http://www.trulydogfriendly.com/blog/?page_id=2
The Pet Professional Guild http://www.petprofessionalguild.com/
The Association of Animal Behavior Professionals http://www.associationofanimalbehaviorprofessionals.com/
Karen Pryor Academy for Dog Trainers https://www.karenpryoracademy.com/find-a-trainer
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants https://iaabc.org
Victoria Stilwell Positively Dog Training http://positively.com/

Question 6

How can I be sure I'm choosing a truly qualified behavior professional to help me and my dog? I've heard terrible stories!

Accepted Answer

Read the links below for the best advice on things to look for during your search for a trainer/training school program, and do your homework! 
Choosing a dog trainer - Buyer Beware!
http://www.woofology.com/PosReinforcement.html 
http://dogtrainer.quickanddirtytips.com/find-behavior-expert.aspx 
See our entire page with resources and information on this subject at Choosing a Training Professional and Training Methods