FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO TRAIN MY DOG?
That's a great question! Are you willing to remain consistent and commit to working with your dog on a daily basis? If so, you might see big improvements soon! Training never truly stops, but it does get easier! I recommend spending 20-30 minutes a day actively training with your dog. That doesn't mean it all has to be done in one session, but if you have five minutes to spare four to five times per day, you'll be in good shape!
I KEEP SEEING TERMS LIKE, "FORCE-FREE," AND "R+," WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?
At Mod Dog Training, we will NEVER use pain, force, or intimidation tactics to achieve results. I abide by a strict code of ethics when working with dogs and their owners which means I will never use or condone the use of shock, prong, or choke collars, nor will I use or allow the use of any positive punishment tool or tactic. Positive reinforcement (R+) and rewards-based training is scientifically proven to be most effective in the long-term, it will strengthen your bond with your dog, and the best part is: it's fun!
SO, YOU JUST GIVE DOGS TREATS?
Nope! We reward, shape, and reinforce desired behaviors by using something your dog finds valuable--FOOD (or toys if that's your dog's thing)! You wouldn't go to your job everyday for free, so why should you expect your dog to work for free? There's no such thing as a free lunch!
DO YOU OFFER A GUARANTEE?
Because we work with living, breathing, free-thinking people and animals, we do not offer any guarantees. However, we will offer you support and guidance every step of the way! Success rates are much higher for clients who commit to consistency and spend at least 10-15 minutes working with their dog each day.
MY DOG THINKS HE'S THE ALPHA, CAN YOU HELP US?
Yes! First order of business is to turn off that one show with the guy who whispers. Terms like "alpha" and "pack leader" are often used by people whose training methods and understanding of canine behavior are based on a thing called dominance theory. This was based on a study of wolves in captivity in the 1930's & 40's and has since been debunked. The best way to repair your relationship with your dog is to acknowledge that they aren't trying to dominate you and get to work on your rewards-based training. Things are much more fun that way, trust me. Want more info? Read what the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior has to say.
MY VET/BREEDER/GROOMER TOLD ME NOT TO TAKE MY PUPPY OUT UNTIL THEY'VE HAD ALL THEIR SHOTS
Disregard. Of course, I would never encourage you to take your puppy to a dog park or otherwise highly-trafficked area. However, the first 16-18 weeks of your dog's life are going to shape their confidence and understanding of this big, scary world. We want our dogs to have as many positive interactions with the world and the people in it as possible during this time frame known as the "socialization stage." Still not convinced? Read the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior's official position statement on puppy socialization.