Methodology
What type of training do you use?
Our approach is decidedly dog and people friendly. We adhere to an approach to teaching behaviors that builds motivation in your dog to want to play the training game and place an emphasis on helping people learn how to manage their dog’s time so as to prevent problematic behaviors and best set them up for behavior success. Creating a dog that is an enthusiastic student is the easiest and fastest route to helping them achieve success in terms of being a compliant and mannerly member of the family. With this goal in mind, positive, reward based training is the way to go!
What types of tools do you use?
We focus primarily on identifying rewards that each dog is most fond of and using those things to motivate the dog to comply with requests. Rewards can be praise, petting, toys, food, access to the environment (such as the couch), and life rewards (such as being taken for a walk, or being permitted to spend some extra time sniffing at a certain spot). Additional tools include plain buckle collars, front clip harnesses, leashes, treat pouches, markers, targeting objects (such as a target stick or container). We do not use electric shock collars (sometimes referred to as e-collars or stimulation collars).
What is a clicker, and do I have to use one to train my dog?
A clicker is a small, hand held device that makes a sharp ‘click’ sound when you press it. A clicker allows you to give specific, accurate and timely feedback to your dog in regards to their behavior. By pairing the ‘click’ sound with food rewards, it becomes a valuable tool for telling your dog what they did at the moment they heard the sound is what is earning them a reward. The vast majority of our students prefer to use a verbal marker (a word like “yes!” or “good!”) as one always has their voice with them!
Classes
Should I attend a group class, have private instruction, or have my dog stay with a trainer for board training?
For most dogs, especially puppies, we encourage owners to have at least one private session to get a good grasp of the basics and then attend a group class. In this environment we are best able to provide controlled distractions for the purpose of training and socialization in the real world.
For those people who want us to set a good foundation in their dog to make training easier for them, we suggest Board Training in conjunction with Private or Group instruction.
What shots does my puppy need to attend class?
Puppies must be up-to-date on their vaccines for their age. Because early socialization is so critical for a dog’s well being throughout their lifetime, we generally do not recommend waiting to join a puppy class until they have completed a traditional course of shots. You should chat with your veterinarian and do some research on the topic, which should include reading Dr. R.K. Anderson’s excellent letter on this topic.
Can more than one person in my family attend the group training class?
Two people may attend class with each canine student. If you have small children, they may attend class, but must be supervised at all times by an adult and be able to remain calm and seated in class so as not to scare the other dogs or otherwise disrupt the class.
What should I bring to class?
A dog who has not eaten his or her meal at least one to two hours prior to the class start time. Treats: soft, pea-sized treats are ideal. A 4-6 foot leash (no retractable leashes, please!) A buckle collar, head halter or body harness. A hollow toy which can be stuffed with food so your dog is kept busy while you listen to your instructor during the discussion portions of class. The Comfort Bone is a great stuff able toy option.
How do I decide which class is right for my dog?
We offer so many options, at so many convenient locations, that you are sure to find the class that is best in regards to material covered as well as ease of attendance. Please take a look at our group dog training class description page or contact us by email if you have any questions that have not been answered there.
I can’t make it to class. What should I do?
If your dog is unable to attend a class, but you can do so, we suggest you attend class without your dog. If you cannot attend class, we are unable to offer make-up sessions as we offer limited enrolled, small classes. Students dropping in for make-up sessions would mean the course would be over the maximum number of students.
Please be considerate and understanding of our policies. We limit enrollment in our classes so students get the attention they deserve and once you have purchased a spot, we cannot offer a make up class, transfer or refund because unlike a piece of clothing purchased at a store, a spot in a class cannot be resold once ‘returned.’
Is there a guarantee for your training?
We adhere to the Code of Professional Conduct and Responsibility set forth by the Association of Professional Dog Trainers: Members are to refrain from giving guarantees regarding the outcome of training, because there is no sure way to guarantee the cooperation and performance of all parties involved and because the knowledge of animal behavior is incomplete. This should not be confused with a desire to guarantee client satisfaction with professional services.
Locations
What neighborhoods do you serve for private lessons?
We offer private lessons at some of our locations in Manhattan also in your home, depending on location. We offer in-home private lessons in Manhattan, some areas of Brooklyn, some areas of New Jersey, some areas of Fairfield County Connecticut, and in Los Angeles, California.
Where are your dog training classes located?
We offer group training classes, special seminars and private lessons in the following locations. We also offer private sessions in your home.
- New York Dog Spa – 32 West 25th Street (between 6th Avenue & Broadway) New York, NY | Map
- Beasty Feast – 327 West 14th Street (between 8th and 9th Avenues) | Map
- Muddy Paws – 821 Ninth Avenue (between 54th and 55th Streets) | Map
- Sniff ‘n’ Seek – 307 East 92nd Street (between 1st and 2nd Avenues) | Map
- New York Dog Spa – 145 West 20th Street (between Sixth and Seventh Avenues) | Map
