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FAQ

You probably have a lot of questions about training and how Homestead Dogs handles our training programs. Below you may find the answer to some of those questions. Please feel free to call for more information.

Do Homestead Dogs train the dog or do the owners learn how to train their dog?

 

Homestead Dogs will personalize training to your needs. Do you want hands-on experience?  We can provide private training directly with you. Are you someone who just wants your dog trained and then show you how to reinforce the training?  We can provide board and training where we keep your dog at our facility while we train; then we meet with you to show you how to reinforce the training.  Do you prefer group training? We will have group lessons scheduled throughout the year.

Does this training work for small dogs?

 

YES!! Small dogs like large dogs, should be held to the same standards. Usually, the only difference is the owner’s tendency to tolerate more extreme behaviors from their small dogs such as aggression, excessive barking and marking problems. We personalize training for dogs of all sizes and temperaments. 

I have a sensitive and fearful dog. How can your training help me?

 

Dogs that are sensitive or fearful have unique circumstances that need to be addressed through clear dog obedience training. The primary goal in training dogs of this temperament is to build confidence in the dog through obedience exercises and other learned behavior. The first step is gaining trust from the dog through communication using obedience as a foundation. In cases of fear-aggression, confidence is key to teaching the dog how to become trustworthy. In cases of submissive or sensitive dogs, clarity and confidence is key.

What is an e-collar and how does it work?

 

An “e-collar” or remote collar is basically a collar with a stimulation mechanism (similar to an electric fence collar). The collar is controlled by a remote that the handler holds. The remote allows you to maintain full control of your dog for up to 400 yards! It gives your dog a lot of freedom and saves you from worrying about your dog running off. It is simply used as a training device for communicating with your dog. It produces a subtle electrical current between two contact points located on the collar. The e-collar is used to get the dog's attention and keep it focused on listening to the handler. It is the equivalent of someone tapping your shoulder to get your attention, or setting your phone on vibrate so it will get your attention when someone is calling you. We teach the dog to listen to those "taps" and that the "taps" mean, "I am trying to get your attention.” As with any tool, you can’t just buy the best tool and expect to build the best house. You need an expert to train and guide you to build the house you want. That is what we will do for you at Homestead Dogs.

Can you solve behavioral problems without training?

 

Obedience is the foundation for solving all behavioral issues. Without this foundation, these issues may cost more in the long run as well as put your dog and/or family in danger. Obedience training is like sending your dog to elementary school. What they learn will last a lifetime and help mold them into the well behaved, loving pet you want as a family member.  

How much time do I need to train my dog each day?

 

We will teach you how to incorporate training into your daily routine. Usually, it is at least 15 minutes a day although it is important that you enforce commands and new boundaries thoughout the day. Consistency is the key.

What methods do you use to work with and train dogs?

 

Our training is designed to help you and your dog progress as quickly as possible to have a happy life together. Because of this, I use a variety of methods and personalize training for your dog's individual personality and to meet your specific goals.

Do you offer a guarantee?

 

While some trainers guarantee a dog's behavior into the future, be sure to read the fine print. The fact of the matter is this - all living creatures are a product of their genetic makeup and environmental influences.  If a dog's health, home or environment change, so might the dog's performance or behavior. While training your dog decreases the likelihood of problem behaviors, no reasonable person can predict what tomorrow holds.

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