Dog training questions, answered honestly

Start with the problem, not a package name. The Training Match asks a few questions about your dog and your goals, and we use it to recommend a starting point. At your free evaluation, your trainer will go over your goals and the plan.

There’s no such thing. Dogs of any age can learn — and sometimes more mature dogs are easier to train because they have less energy. Whether you have an 8-week-old puppy or a 10-year-old shelter dog, the outcome depends on many factors, none of which is age.

Tuesday through Saturday, by appointment only. Call (408) 482-2846 or book a free evaluation online.

Yes. Food is what behavior professionals call a primary reinforcer — rewarding in itself because it’s necessary for survival — and it’s instant gratification for your dog. It isn’t the only reinforcement tool we use, but it’s often the easiest and most powerful.

No. Once a dog has mastered a behavior thoroughly, food is no longer necessary (though it’s always appreciated).

Yes. Some dogs aren’t food-obsessed, and that can be beneficial in some ways. It means understanding what makes your dog tick and thinking outside the box — it isn’t insurmountable.

Yes — it’s essential. We’ll show you what your dog is capable of, but your active participation is what makes the change last. Much of our work is coaching the human end of the leash.

No. Trainers can’t control every factor, and guaranteeing results would be unethical. A dog’s history, socialization, genetics, experiences and the owner’s follow-through all play significant roles. Complex behaviors like aggression, reactivity, resource guarding and separation anxiety require ongoing commitment.

Often, yes — and it’s important to tell us up front so we can plan a safe first session. In the meantime, manage carefully: avoid situations that led to the bite, separate people and animals when you can’t supervise, and talk to your veterinarian.

Veterinary behaviorists are veterinarians who can diagnose medical and behavioral conditions and prescribe medication. Behavior modification training is the day-to-day work of changing how your dog responds. They often work together.

Both. Current packages pair private sessions with group sessions — private time to build skills around your dog’s needs, group time to practice around other dogs and people.

No one can. Under the ADA there is no official certification or registry for service dogs. Our service dog training focuses on obedience, socialization, public manners and task training.

Yes. Advanced Tactical & Specialty Training (under Programs) is for advanced dog-handler teams: advanced obedience, handler mechanics, environmental confidence, obstacle and distance work, drive and engagement, scent and search foundations, and specialty skills. Not every dog is suited to every form of advanced work, so suitability is evaluated individually. The specialty team evaluation is free: request it on the program page, or call (408) 482-2846.

House training depends on complete supervision. Go outside with your puppy so you know whether they’re “empty or full” when they come back in, and restrict access around the house until house training is complete.