Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, we can provide site visits with a few stipulations:
No drop-ins. All site visits must be scheduled. You can contact us via email to arrange a visit.
Availability and timing. Site visits are limited to certain days of the week at specific times. These visits are scheduled around events and classes when an instructor is available to provide this service; availability changes weekly.
If space is available. If you are interested in a specific sport, and we currently have enrollment open and space available in the class, we can accommodate a site visit. 15 minutes maximum.
If you are granted rental permission. If you have met our criteria for becoming an approved renter we can arrange a visit to show you around and let you know how the processes work. 15 minutes maximum.
On site we utilize the LIMA method of training dogs. Our primary focus is to utilize positive reinforcement training methods, or similar methods that do not cause the dog physical, mental or emotional pain or distress.
Most dogs are successfully trained utilizing positive reinforcement training techniques. Food rewards are the go to for 90-95% of our students.
10-15% of our students primarily use toys and tugging as a reward, but also in combination with some food rewards.
As with all positive reinforcement training methods, the dog gets to choose what they find more rewarding. On occasion we have also used play, petting, swimming, sniffing and free running are rewards as these are what the dog enjoys the most! We always let the dog tell us what they find most rewarding.
As a hard fast rule, ownership/management does not permitted the use of any type of correction collar on site; if it is intended to suppress behaviour leave it at home. As dog sports is a hobby for the handler, we feel using harsh corrections in dog sports training is unethical.
No training method used should ever make the handler uncomfortable or cause the dog to be afraid.
In most every circumstance we require a crate in all our classes and private lessons. There are several reasons for this, but the most important one being safety of people and dogs.
If your concerned about using a crate in class it is recommended to take our online crate training class before registering for one of our in person classes.
If you are not able or not willing to use a crate most other private instructors, schools and clubs do not have crate requirements, and will happily accept your registration.
Reasons for crate use in dog training classes:
• Keeps dogs separate from one another, decreasing the likeliness of dog to dog aggression.
• Keeps dogs separate from people, decreasing the likeliness of dog to human aggression.
• Allows handlers to keep control of their dogs at a distance when handlers are required to or need to be away from their dog.
• Helps control potty accidents in the working area. We charge a fee for potty accidents.
• Encourages dogs to rest between turns.
• Is the social norm for competitive dogs sports. Every competitive dog sport requires dogs to be contained while at competitions. Vehicles are the norm at outdoor events, while crates are required at indoor events.
Approval for this is required on a case by case basis.
When approved, the following rules are in affect:
• Instructors are not to be expected to assist guardians with management of the child or their behaviour. The child is 100% the guardians responsibility.
• Guardians are expect to prepare quiet activities/entertainment for the child. Colouring books, tablets and gaming systems are strongly encouraged.
• The child's safety and behaviour are to be prioritized over any dog training.
• Children may never ask to pet or be permitted to approach another dog on the property at any time for any reason. No exceptions.
• Children are expected to remain in the immediate proximity of their guardian and are not permitted to roam.
• Screaming, yelling or other disruptive behaviour are not permitted at any time.
• No climbing on or playing with dog training equipment.
This is evaluated on a case by case basis.
General guidelines:
• A guardian MUST remain with the child at all times; not drop-offs permitted for students under the age of 18.
• The child must be at least 10 years old.
• The child must be able to follow verbal instructions.
• The child must behave in a manner that is not disruptive to another students or dogs. Safety is paramount.
• The child must be physically capable of restraining the dog while on leash, or verbally if off leash.
Dog who are shy, reserved, anxious or fearful (no aggressive behaviours) can absolutely attend classes! All of our instructors are patient and will work with your dog as much as the dog is willing to try. We never force a fearful dog to do any behaviour they aren't willing to try.
Dogs that are aggressive towards people may not attend any group classes. Private lessons may be available after a behaviour assessment is completed.
Dogs that are aggressive towards other dogs may or may not be able to attend group classes, but may attend private lessons.
As we required crates in all our classes, mild dog to dog aggression is usually quite manageable as other dogs in class are in their crates while the dog with "aggression" is out working.
Our training programs are based in extensive foundation training; meaning leashes also serve as an extra layer of management. Dogs are not permitted off leash to work if the dog has not demonstrated the ability to work off leash or respond to a simple recall.
While our goal is always to build enough confidence for the dog to work off leash with other dogs off leash at the same time, with certain dogs this may never be possible. Instructors will manage these dogs in class, giving them sole working time, or utilizing other management tools to create success.
If it is discovered that a dogs aggressive behaviours cannot be managed with crates, leashes or distance the dog will be removed from class.
Yes! And we encourage it! All dogs should learn to work through the distraction of a female dog in heat - even intact males!
If your girl is a willing participant while in heat - every girl is different - then class can proceed as usual.
We ask however that you have hear wear protective pants with an absorbent liner inside. Some pants come with liners, but most don't so you will need to add a panty liner.
Pants need to be worn at all times, except when trying for a potty break.