Q. How many lessons does Paws-A-Tive Dog Training offer?
A. We offer 6 week training packages, both private and semi private. We start off all our classes one on one since there is so much to learn.
Other packages are available upon request, including in-home training and board training.
Q. When should my dog start obedience training?
A. Ideally, training should start immediately upon bringing home your new family member. It’s far easier to prevent a problem than to correct one.
Q. What training methods do you use?
A. We are very aware each puppy and dog is an individual with his or her own unique personality. Not all training methods will work for every dog. Therefore we employ different training techniques when we meet you and your dog and tailor the training to what works best for your dog’s specific needs.
We believe in positive rewards whether it's verbal, the use of a toy, a quick pat or the occasional treat to capture wanted behaviors. High value treats are used very sparingly on an as needed basis. The reason for this is we want your dog to respond to you, as opposed to only responding when food is available. We also believe in reading and using body language and non-verbal cues to communicate with your dog. The most important takeaway from our training is confidence and positivity. We never encourage nor condone abuse of any kind when it comes to these intelligent animals.
Q. What training equipment do you use in your training?
A. We prefer to use a good quality slip lead for training. When used correctly, you'll find that you have more control over your dog, without putting pressure on his/her sensitive trachea. Most dogs respond very well to the slip lead.
Q. What are the benefits of a slip lead over the flat collar?
A. Most dogs, though not all, ignore corrections with a flat collar or harness when starting basic obedience training. The slip lead, when placed correctly, fits under the jaw and snugly behind the ears of a dog. In this position it gently pushes on a pressure point behind each ear that releases endorphins that helps relax a dog. It in no way harms the dog and if it did we would never use it. Over time once a dog learns their obedience the slip lead can be replaced with their original flat collar or even a harness if preferred.
Q. When can we expect to see results from your dog training?
A. You will see results the first day of class. Once you learn how to clearly communicate with your dog after each class you apply that at home when you do your homework with your dog. We make sure before you leave each class that your dog knows what's being asked of them. We also make sure you and your family understand what homework we're expecting you to do before your next class. If you and your dog practice together between classes, you will see the results you are looking for.
Q. What if I get home and my dog/puppy just won't listen to me no matter what I do or say?
A. Give us a call or a text. If we can't help you over the phone we will schedule a time for you to come in. We understand it is like learning a whole new language so we're always there for training support.
Q. What can I expect after my dog has finished their 6 weeks of training.
A. During your 6 weeks of training we make sure you and your dog knows what to practice on before you leave each class. We go over everything from class 1 to the class your in each week. We find that, if owners do their homework every week and keep communication with us when there’s an issue your dog will know their basics obedience. When there’s behavioral issues again we ask that owners communicate with us. There are many different training techniques where we may have to try something different that will work better for the owner.
Q. What if I don’t have much time to train my dog?
A. As with children dogs need guidance. Without proper guidance your dog will see there is no leadership and take that role on. They can become possessive, protective, unsociable, among other bad behaviors.
Please make sure before getting a pet that you have the time to put into them so they don’t end up in a shelter.
Training a dog can be a lot of work. Some harder to train then others. We highly recommend doing your research on different breeds. Even mix breeds try to research the mix as it can save you a lot of stress down the road.
Q. How do you feel about kennel/crate training?
A. I personally believe in crate training whether you use it or not. You never know if an emergency arises where you need a safe place for your dog.
Using a wire kennel/crate can also be a safe place for your dog when they want quiet time away from any activity that maybe going on. A kennel can be a good place and also a place where you can put your dog for time out when they need 5-10 minutes to think about what naughty behavior they just did.
Kennels can also save your home from being destroyed when you can’t keep an eye on your dog or pup.
We don’t recommend crating your dog for many hours during the day. It’s not healthy mentally for them.
Q. We brought home a new dog or puppy. What toxic foods and plants should we look out for?
A. If you suspect that your pet has ingested something poisonous, please call your veterinarian immediately or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-4ANI-HELP (888-426-4435) as time is the importance in an emergency.
Foods to avoid giving your dog:
§ Garlic/onions/chives/leeks-- can cause a fatal anemia
§ Grapes/raisins-- contain an unknown toxin that can damage the kidneys
§ Macadamia nuts-- contain an unknown toxin that can damage the digestive system
§ Uncooked yeast-- can expand in the stomach, causing gastric problems and possible rupture
§ Chocolate-- contains theobromine, which affects the cardiovascular, nervous and digestive systems
§ Coffee/caffeine— contains xanthenes which can cause problems in the nervous, urinary, and cardiovascular systems
§ Xylitol— a newer sweetener found in many products; can be fatally toxic
§ Alcohol — even small amounts can cause intoxication and possibly death
§ Tobacco/nicotine— can cause serious digestive, cardiovascular and neurological effects
NOTE: This list is just a quick reference of potential hazards.
For more information, you can visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.
Also, Click in the link below to check out the complete list of dangers to your pets
. http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poisons/
Q: Are there any dogs you will not work with?
A. No. We do not turn away any dog. No dog is too “bad” or too "difficult" or too "old" to train. We work with dogs from all walks of life – rescues, breeders, strays, pet stores, etc. Just give us a call to set up your free evaluation today - 702-817-3495
Q: What services do you offer?
A. Please see the "Services" section
Don't see your question answered? Call us at 702-817-3495 or email us at pam@pawsativedogtraining.com