FAQs
FAQs about dog training
Q. Who actually gets trained, the dog or the owner?
A. A trainer is one who helps YOU figure out how to train your dog. A good trainer helps you learn to observe your dog for important clues to his/hers behaviors and actions. A trainer watches you and your dog work together and helps you learn where you need to improve on your relationship with your pet. A trainer’s job, in short, is to teach you to become a trainer of your own dog. It is not a trainer’s job to teach your dog. However both owner and dog need training. Peggy can work with both, and in a short period of time, and give control over to the owner who has observed what Peggy does. It is a special process that is very effective. It’s amazing how dogs can understand English!!! Just kiddin, it’s all in the vibes that you send down the leash.
Q. Does the owner need to be there for all in-home sessions?
A. yes, remember that the owner is the one being trained to train their dog. Preferably the owner learns along with the dog but often people are very busy or stressed. In that case , Peggy will do a lot of “hands on” work with the dog, and then transfer control to the owner towards the end of the training program and during group class. She makes it as convenient as possible.
Q. What will we be taught during training sessions?
A. Once it is decided in what areas your dog’s behavior needs improvement, the areas may be categorized generally as follows:
Obedience
Problem Solving (destructive behavior, house soiling, manners, anxiety, does not Listen, excessive barking etc)
Socialization
Companionship
Guardian or Helper
more…
Peggy will come to your home anywhere in the triangle, and show you the “tricks of the trade” so to speak. Let’s say your dog has a barking problem and is very territorial. She does hands-on work, walking you and your dog while being in the right state of mind (not too excited), calm and in-control.
Q. My wife received in-home training with our dog but she has recently passed away. I inherited the dog but know very little about what she learned. what should I do?
A. Approach her trainer about your dilemma. Chances are good that you will receive a discount on follow-up training. Especially if she was a good customer!
Q. How frequent are the in-home sessions?
A. Typically one hour per week, but preferrably twice a week.
Q. My dog barks at everything that moves. What can be done about it? Should I buy a bark collar?
A. This falls under the area of problem solving and socialization. Typically a dog that misbehaves has never been taught to do otherwise. This is a common problem that can be addressed during training. Corrective collars can be a useful tool when used properly but, there is no substitute for good training.
Q. How much can I expect to pay for in-home training?
A. Prices range from $90 to $120 an hour, or flat fee based on the number of lessons agreed to. There may also may be a small fuel surcharge if the trainer must travel over 50 miles. But don’t let that scare you. Many national outfits might say that “Ok we can do wonders at $40/hr, but with a person making minimum wage. Also, Peggy is sensitive to peoples’ financial condition, so don’t hesitate to call and ask. It typically requires 6 or more sessions to start seeing real improvement in bahavior. Of course, a lot of that improvement is based upon the owner’s willingness to follow through with teaching their dog.
Q. What is your cancellation policy?
A. Common sense dictates that you give 24 hours notice except in emergency cases due to illness or weather. If a trainer shows up at your house for a session and no one is there, and no cancellation notice was given, you can expect to pay a small fee for their time and trouble.
Q. My dog is so territorial that other dogs don’t want to come anywhere near her. I need help!
A. This is another common problem that can be addressed during in-home training. Some breeds are instinctively territorial. Think of a sheep dog that could run off a wolve that comes into it’s territory. It is good for a dog to be suspicious of strangers that come to the door. But it must also learn which people or animals are Ok.
Q. Do you offer group sessions?
A. yes, group sessions can be a good solution for puppies and beginners to learn basic manners and socialization. Also, all clients are encouraged to bring their dog to group. Think of it as group therapy for dogs. Group session are free when you sign up for in-home training. They take place at Oval park in Durham, NC
Q. Does my dog need to be vaccinated before coming to group sessions?
A. Yes, as you probably know, dogs can carry certain diseases that can be transmitted to other dogs. In general it is always a good idea to take your dog to the vet. at least once a year to receive its shots, check-up etc.
Q. I understand that Peggy takes a fancy to Dobermans and Giant Schnauzers. Does she breed them or sell puppies?
A. She does not breed Schnauzers but she does sell doberman puppies or can find you the right dog for you. To see why she loves dobermans etc, see her bio and training philosophy link.
Q. I have always thought that dobermans are a fierce breed that are not suitable to be a family pet and be trusted around small children. Am I misinformed?
A. You are obviously thinking of an untrained doberman. A trained doberman can be a fine protective and loving companion for a small child.
Q. My dog is a Shit-Tzu. I have had 1 lesson so far. I have learned certain command like “Wait”, ” sit” (give her a treat if new to training). Quiet. Pssst, Of course dogs don’t understand English , so it is all in the sound and the ability for the person at the other end of leash to express pack leader qualities. I guess my question is: What if I am having a bad day but want to take my dog for a walk? Can just a leash tug horizontally, correct most walking behaviors at night?
A. The answer is so dependent on the owner’s situation. If you want good behavior out of your dog, you have work at it. Think about all the people who have tried programs for losing weight like “No Exercise Required” or can “burn calories over night?”
j.
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