Q: What if I have a question or an issue arises after the training sessions have ended?
A: I offer free follow up support, either by phone or email, following all training sessions.
Q: I just brought home a puppy. What is the best age to start training the puppy?
A: Learning and socialization begins from the time the puppy enters the world. Initially, the puppy learns and is socialized from its mother and littermates. However, formal training, with the owner, should begin when the puppy is approximately 8 weeks of age.
Q: When my dog acts out, I put it in the crate. Should I do this?
A: The crate should be used for many reasons, but never for punishment. Dogs are naturally den animals, They seek a place where they can feel protected and comfortable. The crate allows your dog to be confined in a safe, secure area of your home while you are away for periods of time. It can also provide an area of calm and privacy where your dog can bring its bone or toy and get away from others and household activity. A dog can be crate trained at any age, but it is best to start as early as possible. Plastic crates are best as they provide more privacy and security, more like a den. The best placement of the crate in your home is in a quiet area, away from constant activity.
Q: I have heard a lot about “interactive toys”. What are they?
A: Providing interactive toys can help prevent boredom behaviors such as chewing, digging and barking. They provide hours of play. You can fill them with dog food, treats or peanut butter. Interactive toys come in many forms and are available at most pet stores. There are also “interactive food bowls” for dogs which slows down your dog’s mealtime, which, overall, is better for digestion. Interactive toys and bowls will not only provide entertainment for your dog, but you will have fun watching the dog entertaining itself!
Q: I just rescued a dog from a shelter. The dog seems to have arrived with a few unwanted behaviors. Can the dog be trained even though it is an older dog?
A: Most behavioral problems are manageable or treatable. Just about every dog, no matter what their age, comes with a need to learn new skills or change some behaviors in the new home. The dog will need to adapt to the new environment and your family. You will need to be patient and persistent. The reward will be that you will have a dog whose presence in your life will bring you joy and happiness and that, you provided a loving home to a dog in need of one.
