FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions:

What services do you offer?
- We offer a range of services including private training sessions, group classes, nose work, and behavior modification for issues like reactivity, fear, and anxiety. Our team also provides support for basic puppy training and new rescue assessments.
What is your training philosophy?
- Our training philosophy focuses on positive reinforcement and the L.E.G.S. model, which considers the whole dog including their Life experiences, Environment, Genetics, and Socialization. We use science-based positive reinforcement methods to ensure effective, compassionate training.
What are the qualifications of your trainers?
- Our team includes Certified Family Dog Mediators, a Certified Behavior Consultant, and Fear Free Certified Trainer. We are committed to ongoing education and staying current with the latest research and techniques in dog behavior.
What is L.E.G.S. and why is it important to us?
- L.E.G.S. stands for Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Socialization. It’s a comprehensive approach that considers:
  - Learning: How a dog learns and processes information.
  - Environment: The physical and social setting in which a dog lives.
  - Genetics: The breed and individual genetic traits influencing behavior.
  - Socialization: The dog’s exposure to various experiences and interactions.
Why It Matters:
- L.E.G.S. helps us understand each dog’s unique behavior by addressing all influencing factors. This approach allows us to tailor our training and support to fit individual needs, ensuring more effective and compassionate solutions.
What is a Family Dog Mediator?
- A Family Dog Mediator is a specialist who:
  - Addresses Behavior Issues: Helps resolve problems like aggression, anxiety, and reactivity.
  - Uses a Holistic Approach: Considers factors such as learning, environment, genetics, and socialization.
  - Promotes Positive Solutions: Focuses on positive reinforcement and improving the dog-family relationship.
- The goal is to create a harmonious environment where both dogs and their owners thrive.
Do you work with all dog breeds and ages?
- Yes, we work with dogs of all breeds, ages, and backgrounds. Whether you have a new puppy, an adolescent, an adult dog, or a rescue, we tailor our training to meet your dog's specific needs.
How do I get started with training?
- To get started, please contact us via email, schedule a phone call or book right online. We’ll discuss your dog’s needs, goals, and the best training options for your situation.

Behaviour-Specific Questions:

What is reactivity, and how do you address it?
- Reactivity is a broad term that includes fear-based, frustration-based, and stress-related behaviors. Our reactivity training addresses these issues through tailored strategies to help your dog feel more comfortable and confident.
- In the presence of a trigger, this may look like barking, growling, lunging, whining, pacing, hiding, tucked tail, freezing, snapping, guarding, avoidance or over excitement.
How can I tell if my dog’s behavior is due to fear or frustration?
- Fear-based behaviors often involve signs of anxiety or avoidance, such as cowering or growling. Frustration-based behaviors might include excessive barking or pulling on the leash. During a consultation, we’ll help identify the root causes and develop an appropriate plan.
Do you offer support for separation anxiety?
- Currently, we are not taking on cases involving separation anxiety We recommend seeking specialized support from professionals who focus specifically in this area.

Class and Training Information:

What should I bring to a training session or class?
- Please bring your dog’s favorite treats, a leash, and any necessary training tools as advised. For group classes, it’s helpful to have a mat or blanket for your dog to settle on. We will contact you prior to your class with specific details.
How long are the training sessions and classes?
- Private training sessions typically last between 60 to 90 minutes. Group classes and workshops vary in length, with most sessions being 1 to 2 hours.
What is the cost of training services?
- Costs vary depending on the type of service and package you choose. Please check the appropriate page for pricing information. We offer $25 community drop in classes as a budget friendly way to access qualified training.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule a session?
- We ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule a session. Cancellations within 24 hours may be subject to a fee. Please review our cancellation policy for more details.

Follow up Training Sessions:

How often should I schedule follow-up sessions?
- Follow-up sessions are typically scheduled based on your dog's progress and the specific training plan. We recommend scheduling follow-ups every 2-4 weeks to ensure consistent progress and address any emerging issues.
When is the best time to book a follow-up session?
- It’s a good idea to book a follow-up session when you notice specific behaviors that need further attention or when you’ve completed the initial training goals and are ready to address new challenges. Remember that our trainers sometimes book months in advance.
How do I know if my dog is ready for a follow-up session?
- If you’re seeing improvements but need additional guidance, or if you’re encountering new challenges, it’s time to consider a follow-up session. We can also discuss this during your initial consultation or current sessions.
Can I reschedule a follow-up session if needed?
- Yes, you can reschedule follow-up sessions one time with at least 24 hours' notice. Please contact us as soon as possible to arrange a new time.
What should I prepare for a follow-up session?
- Bring any notes on your dog's behavior since the last session, updates on progress or challenges, and any specific questions or concerns you have. This helps us tailor the session to your current needs.
How will I know if additional follow-ups are needed?
- After each session, we’ll discuss your dog’s progress and determine if additional follow-ups are needed to meet your training goals. We'll also consider your feedback and observations.
What if my dog’s behavior changes significantly between sessions?
- If you notice significant changes or new issues, please contact us immediately. We may be able to provide additional support or schedule an earlier follow-up if necessary.

Additional Information:

Do you offer virtual training sessions?
- Yes, we offer virtual training sessions that allow you to work with our trainers from the comfort of your home. This can be a convenient option for those who prefer remote support.
How can I support my dog’s training progress at home?
- We provide guidance and homework assignments to support your dog’s progress between sessions. Consistent practice and following our recommendations will help reinforce the training. The Tri-Cities Reactive Club drop in classes are another great resource for training progression.
Can I observe a class before signing up?
- Yes, we offer the option to observe a class to get a sense of our training style and how the classes are conducted. Please contact us to arrange an observation.
Can I observe a training session before committing?
- For safety and liability reasons, we cannot allow you to observe a private training session
What is your cancellation policy for training sessions?
- Please visit our Policies page for more info
Do you offer discounts or packages for multiple sessions?
- At this time, we do not offer packages but encourage you to book follow up sessions on an "as needed" basis.
What should I do if I have a concern about the training process?
- Let us know right away if something isn't sitting right with you. We are here to work cohesively and want everyone to be comfortable with the process.
How do I track my dog's progress?
- We recommend keeping a diary with notes each day on all the day to day activities and anything of note including health, physical and mental issues.
What if my dog has special needs or medical conditions?
- Let us know! We are happy to adapt and work with your specific situation.
How can I prepare for my first training session?
- Have a list of any questions for your trainer, information of past history, medical history and anything else you feel may be important. Your trainer will arrive with a pouch full of tasty food but you can also have some on hand. Your trainer will reach out prior to your session to confirm any last details and answer any final questions.

Links to Additional Pages:

General Policies