FAQs
Your most frequently asked questions, answered!
We always want to help you get the best from your pup and the training we'll be doing together, so we've compiled a list of tips we hope you'll find useful as well as some more general information about how we train and what to expect from your sessions.
Should my pup eat before our session?
If your session is early in the day, we recommend that you feed your pup half of their breakfast and make sure they've had a chance to use the bathroom. Otherwise, continue with your pup's normal routine until your trainer arrives.
My dog bites, what should I do to keep everyone safe?
Firstly, please let us know if your pup has a bite history! If we are concerned about confrontational behavior towards people, we ask that the pup be safely secured in another room, behind a baby gate or in a pen and wearing a well-fitted muzzle.
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My dog is anxious meeting new people, what should I do?
If your pup has a history of fear/anxiety around strangers, we would prefer to meet them outside (weather permitting). They should be on a leash attached to either a flat collar or well-fitted harness. We'll call you when we arrive and meet you outside before asking you to fetch your pup.
How will you greet my pup?
When we arrive we may ignore your pup and toss treats at them - don't worry, we're not being rude, this is a great way to help your pup warm up to us without pressuring them to be sociable.
Should my family/kids join in?
Family, children and additional caretakers are not only welcome, but encouraged to attend! The more people that can be involved with training, the better.
Will I have to participate in training sessions?
The sessions themselves can include as much or as little participation as you feel comfortable with. We encourage pup parents to practice our training techniques with us but we understand that sometimes this can be a little awkward - don't worry, we understand if you prefer to observe and practice later!
Do I have to be present during the training?
Please do not expect us to spend the session training your pup without you there. We are here to coach you as much as your pup and we do ask you to be present throughout, (unless your pup is taking part in intensive training or a homeschooling package).
What happens if it rains? What if it's too hot/cold?
If our session is outside, please plan to wear weather-appropriate clothing as we all know how unpredictable the weather can be here in Georgia.
Should I take notes?
While you are free to write things down during training, please remember that we'll send you detailed follow-up notes and homework after our session.
Can I take photos/videos of our training session?
Please check with us in advance, but we're usually more than happy for you to take photos and videos. You are welcome to upload these to social media but we do ask that you tag us @caninecounseling.
Can my kids train with you?
We can not train pups with any family member under 18 years of age without the supervision of an adult. This is for insurance purposes only, we always encourage kids and young adults to join in!
What treats should I have ready?
We will bring our own treats but if your pup has a particular favorite type/flavor/texture we do ask that these be available just in case your pup doesn't like ours.
I/my family/my dog has food allergies. What should we do?
If your pup, or any member of the family, has any allergies, disabilities or any medical issues you haven't yet disclosed, and you think these may affect our sessions, please let us know so we can avoid any issues.
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What are your Covid-19 safety procedures?
Frankie is vaccinated and boosted against Covid-19 and is happy to provide proof of vaccination on request. As of 2023 she will not wear a mask unless requested, in which instance she will wear a KN95 disposable mask.
I didn't understand something my trainer said...
Frankie is very English and hasn't been in the USA long. If she uses any words or phrases you don't understand please let her know, she won't be offended and is used to it, (even her husband fails to understand her sometimes).
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Will you use dominance/alpha theory, punishment or aversive training methods?
We will not use any form of fear, pain or force as part of our training, nor do we subscribe to the outdated, and widely debunked, 'dominance theory'. As such we do not promise 'quick fixes'. Instead, we promise to address your pup's behavior at the source, working to change their emotional state and not simply punishing the behavior.
Will you use corrective collars?
We do not recommend the usage of prong collars, e-collars, shock-collars, choke/check collars or any other tools of this nature. However, we understand that many trainers still recommend these tools. If you are currently using any equipment we consider aversive we won't judge! We are happy to help you transition to something a little safer and more in line with our ethics.
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What else should I know?
Before getting in touch with us we encourage you to read our policies, terms and conditions.
If we haven't answered your question, please get in touch!
Above all we just really, really love dogs. We treat each and every one just like our own (and our own is a very, very loved and spoiled boy). We will love your pup regardless of their age, breed, size or temperament, guaranteed.