Questions and Answers

WHAT METHODS DO YOU USE TO TRAIN DOGS?
Our training methods center around your dog's personality and/or problems. There is no one RIGHT WAY to train all dogs. Our trainers are knowledgeable in both inducive and compulsive training methods.

HOW MANY LESSONS SHOULD I EXPECT TO HAVE UNTIL MY DOG IS TRAINED?
An evaluation of your dog's personality, behavioral problems and breed characteristics will be needed to determine the program that is right for you and your dog.

HOW LONG IS EACH TRAINING SESSION?
Each session lasts approximately 45 minutes. It is not good to "work" your dog the entire lesson period. You and your dog will "work" the dog for a 5-10 minute period and then rest and play before starting again. During the rest/play time, you will be instructed in proper training techniques to use with your dog.

HOW MANY TIMES A WEEK ARE THE LESSONS?
Lessons are once a week. This enables you to focus on the techniques and commands with your dog between lessons.

ARE YOU GOING TO TEACH ME ALONG WITH MY DOG?
Definitely! 40% of the training is for the dog and the other 60% is for you. Your dog's progress depends on your dedication.

WILL I NEED TO DO FOLLOW-UP WORK WITH MY DOG AFTER EACH LESSON?
Yes. Training your dog will bring both you and your dog pleasure! You will be given appropriate techniques and instruction to help you between formal lessons.

WILL I NEED TO DO FOLLOW-UP WORK WITH MY DOG AFTER COMPLETING THE ENTIRE COURSE?
It would be beneficial. We believe training with your dog should never stop.

WHERE WILL WE TRAIN? INSIDE THE HOUSE OR OUTSIDE THE HOUSE?
We will work with your dog in both areas. Most of the training will be outdoors.

DO I NEED TO PURCHASE ANY SPECIAL EQUIPMENT?
Yes. You will initially need a collar and a leash. Other supplies will be needed for advanced courses. A crate (sometimes called a "kennel") is also highly recommended.

SHOULD OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS BE INVOLVED IN THE TRAINING SESSIONS?
It would be beneficial.

WHAT IF MY DOG DOESN'T LEARN?
Your dog will learn.

DO YOU GUARANTEE THE TRAINING?
Yes. K-9 ACHIEVERS, INC® guarantees that you will receive quality, dependable and courteous training and service. I agree with the APDT (Asso. of Pet Dog Trainers) "Because of variables in dog breeding and temperament and owner commitment and experience, a trainer cannot and should not guarantee the results of his/her training. However, an instructor can and should be willing to ensure client satisfaction with his/her professional services." K-9 ACHIEVERS, INC® does offer an additional service guarantee.

WILL YOU TRAIN FOR HOUSEBREAKING?
We offer housebreaking consultations and advice.

I HAVE TWO DOGS. CAN BOTH DOGS BE TRAINED AT THE SAME TIME? WILL I GET A DISCOUNT?
Each dog needs to be worked with separately. We can discuss a discount for purchasing two programs.

WILL YOU TRAIN MY DOG AT YOUR HOME OR ANOTHER LOCATION?
We feel your dog benefits best from training in your home. Other options may be discussed during the initial evaluation.

I'M REALLY BUSY. WILL YOU TAKE MY DOG AND TRAIN IT?
We can discuss this possibility. Please take time to read WHY IN-HOME TRAINING.

I HAVE A NEW PUPPY. WHEN SHOULD MY TRAINING BEGIN?
Your puppy can benefit greatly from short sessions. Problems do not go away by themselves. SMALL group classes are periodically available for socialization and beginning basic obedience.
Note: K-9 ACHIEVERS, INC® does not recommend formal training of puppies that are younger than 12 weeks.

MY DOG IS OLD. CAN SHE STILL BE TRAINED?
Definitely! I have had great success with dogs as old as 10 years.
Now is the perfect time to start.

MY DOG IS DEAF. CAN HE BE TRAINED?
Yes.

DO YOU PROVIDE PET GROOMING?
No.

CAN YOU TEACH MY DOG TO DO TRICKS?
Yes. K-9 ACHIEVERS, Inc® focuses on Obedience; however, we have a few "tricks-up-our-sleeve"!

I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE A PERSONAL PROTECTION DOG, BUT I HAVE CHILDREN. IS THIS A PROBLEM?
Yes and No. Special evaluations must be made to be certain that you understand the responsibilities of owning a personal protection dog. You must be willing to work with your dog. A personal protection dog will give its life to protect your children and you. A PROPERLY TRAINED personal protection dog can be a wonderful family member.

I HAVE SMALL CHILDREN. SHOULD I PURCHASE A DOG?
A well-trained dog is essential around small children. Please take time to read our advice on DOG SAFETY & CHILDREN.

I DON'T HAVE A DOG YET. WILL YOU HELP ME FIND THE RIGHT BREED FOR MY LIFESTYLE?
Yes. K-9 ACHIEVERS, Inc® offers temperament testing to help you find the proper personality for you and your family. You will receive a description of at least two breeds that correlate with your lifestyle. We will also recommend breed clubs to contact for information on reputable breeders in your area.

I HAVE A CAT (or other animal). CAN MY DOG BE TRAINED TO "BE NICE" TO MY CAT?
This behavioral problem requires a consultation. If your dog has a HIGH AMOUNT of prey drive, the chances of stopping it are slim but possible. (Prey drive is the drive to chase or bite any moving thing.)

MY DOG IS SPAYED / NEUTERED. WILL THIS MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN TRAINING?
Not with OBEDIENCE training. Possibly with PERSONAL PROTECTION training.

DO YOU HAVE LOCAL REFERENCES?
Yes. We also have references from other areas of the country. Veterinarian references are also available.

DO YOU OFFER GROUP LESSONS?
K-9 ACHIEVERS, Inc® periodically provides SMALL group classes for puppies to acquire socialization and early basic obedience. K-9 ACHIEVERS, Inc® programs primarily begin with private lessons. We periodically offer group lessons to older dogs who have completed Basic Obedience. A PROFESSIONAL TRAINER PREFERS NOT HAVE YOU TEACH NEW COMMANDS UNDER DISTRACTIONS. A CLASS OF 20 DOGS IS ONE BIG DISTRACTION. Please take time to read WHY IN-HOME TRAINING.