FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q:  Which training program is right for my dog?

A:  As a general rule, the following training programs are best for dogs meeting the standard criteria listed:

Q: My dog needs more socialization around other dogs, will group classes help?

A: Depending on the level of problem your dog is having around other dogs, group classes may or may not be the right choice. For example, if your dog is moderately shy around other dogs, positive training in a group class environment can help build your dog's confidence around other dogs.

However, if your dog has shown aggression towards other dogs or barks excessively when encountering other dogs on walks, group classes may not be the right solution for you. For these dogs, being surrounded by other dogs can be overwhelming and risks sensitizing your dog to other dogs, making problems worse. For that reason, we may choose to evaluate your dog before class, to determine whether or not group classes or private lessons will better help you reach your goals.

Q: How many dogs are in each class?

A: We limit our classes to no more than 8 dogs. Each class has at least one training assistant, in addition to the instructor, so that all students are given the individual attention they need when practicing class exercises.

Q: Can I observe a class before signing up?

A: We encourage and welcome people to observe our classes. Because training your dog requires a significant commitment on your part, you should be comfortable with the instructors and methods used. Please leave your dog at home when you come to observe.

Q: Do you use treats in your training?

A: Yes. Reward-based training creates well-behaved dogs that are eager to comply. Correct use of food rewards will not create dependence on treats. 4Paws University educates dog owners how to use food as a reward, and not as a bribe, to prevent dependence on treats.

Thousands of dogs trained with food rewards compete at the highest level of obedience and agility competitions, where food is prohibited in the ring. Food rewards are effectively used to train marine animals, both in marine animal parks and for the military, even when addressing aggressive behaviors in such large and powerful animals.

It is not the tool, itself, that causes problems, but how that tool is implemented. For more, read Training with Food

4Paws students perform down-stay next to owners' treats and other distractions

Q: Do you use dog psychology?

A: Our methods are based in the science of how dogs learn (classical and operant conditioning), how dogs behave in their natural environment (ethology), how the brain affects behavior (neuropsychology), and the behavioral characteristics of individual breeds. We continue our education on these and many other subjects by learning from the top professionals in these fields.

"Dog psychology" has no standard or scientific definition, leaving it to each individual's interpretation as to methodology and philosophy. It is not an indication of knowledge or experience.

Q: Can my family attend classes with me?

A: Because successfully training your dog involves the whole family, we encourage the participation of all family members.

Children may act as the handler for a dog in class if, at the sole discretion of the instructor, the child can safely control the dog and can perform training exercises.

All children must be accompanied by an adult. Parents will be responsible for the supervision and behavior of children while on the training site and minors must be accompanied by an adult. Children who present a disruption to classes or a safety risk, will not be permitted to return to class.

Q: Can different family members bring the dog to class on different days?

A: No. Dog training classes are to teach the dog owners the skills they need to train their dog outside of class. Each class builds on the skills learned in the previous weeks. For that reason, we have found that training is most successful when there is one person attending class consistently with the dog.

Q: Do you give discounts for shelter dogs?

A: We offer a reduced rate in-home training session for newly-adopted shelter or rescue dogs (within 30 days of adoption). This session is designed to prevent common problems that might jeopardize the dog's success in his/her new home.

Can you train my dog for me?

A: Yes! If you are not interested in learning the training process (not everyone enjoys this aspect of dog ownership) or have limited time during the week for training but still want a well-behaved dog, we can come to your home and train your dog. We then meet with you to teach you how to maintain your dog's new obedience skills. This can also be great for dogs who require a complex desensitization and counter-conditioning program to overcome fear of noises or other dogs. Learn more.

Q: Do you guarantee your training?

A: We hold very high standards in our trainers and training services and will make every effort to ensure your satisfaction with our services. However, as members of the Certification Council For Professional Dog Trainers and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, we are committed to performing our services within the Code of Ethics of those organizations. Consistent with those codes, we do not give guarantees regarding the outcome of training.

"Trainers who use the unqualified term 'guaranteed' in their advertising or other promotional efforts do a disservice to the profession, since there is no sure way to 'guarantee' the cooperation and performance of three separate living beings:  the trainer, the client, and the canine student."

-Job Michael Evans, Monks of New Skete

As with any training program, your ultimate success will depend on your commitment and effort.