Question 1

I've already gone to another trainer for puppy kindergarten but I'm still having problems.  Can you help?

Accepted Answer

Many of the families I've worked with went to group classes or worked with trainers in the past and they didn't get all their goals reached either because the classes were too hectic or crowded, or they didn't get enough attention from the trainer, or the trainer didn't know how to resolve some common unwanted behaviors.  In our training programs, we can work so much faster and better because the sessions are one-on-one and we can deal with the specific behavior problems immediately where they’re occurring.

Question 2

Should the entire family be present for lessons?

Accepted Answer

It's not necessary but it's helpful for everyone to get all the information at the same time.

Question 3

Why do you come to my home?

Accepted Answer

Coming to your home will allow us to work one-on-one instead of being in a group class.  Home is where the dog will spend most of his time and that’s where a lot of the problem behaviors occur, so it’s best to train there.  You have my undivided attention and can ask as many questions as you need.  The program will fit your schedule instead of you trying to fit your life into one certain class time.

Question 4

What kinds of behaviors can you help with?

Accepted Answer

Most of our clients are looking for help with common behavior issues such as potty training, jumping on guests, pulling on a leash, etc.  We tailor each program to our clients’ needs.

Question 5

Do you offer training for puppies, adult dogs, or both?

Accepted Answer

We offer training for puppies AND adult dogs.  We start training 2 weeks after the puppy or adult arrives at their new home, to allow time for the “honeymoon period” for the dog and family to get used to each other.

Question 6

How does in-home training work, and what should I expect during a session?

Accepted Answer

Beverly comes to your home to coach you on how to train your dog, because that’s where real-life behaviors are happening. It works best when all family members attend so everyone is consistent, and each lesson includes me demonstrating the new behavior first, then guiding you as you practice it with your dog.

Question 7

How long does it usually take to see progress?

Accepted Answer

You could see progress in one lesson.  But that progress must be reinforced for the behavior to become permanent.

Question 8

What training methods do you use?

Accepted Answer

Beverly is a positive, force free trainer.  That means she doesn’t use shock collars (commonly called e-collars), prong collars, or any other device that the dog finds adversive.

Question 9

Do you offer programs, or can I book single sessions?

Accepted Answer

We offer 4, 6, and 8 week lessons as part of a program.  Consistency is key to making long-term changes.  There may be too many behaviors to be addressed in just one lesson.

Question 10

How often should we schedule sessions for the best results?

Accepted Answer

Ideally once a week but we understand some people don’t have the same day and time off from work each week.  The client or dog may get sick or have a vacation so while we try to have the same day and time each week, we are flexible if something changes and then just move that lesson to the next time.

Question 11

Will you give me homework to complete between sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will receive an email with a lesson recap on things we worked on during the lesson and what to work on for the next lesson.

Question 12

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

The best say to get started is to either complete a Calendly link for a free phone consultation.  You can also email info@thewell-traineddog.com or call (540) 353-2485.

Question 13

How do I pay for the programs?

Accepted Answer

We require a $100 non-refundable deposit to get you on our schedule and the remainder is paid at the first lesson.

We accept cash, check, and credit card.

Question 14

Do you work with multi-dog households?

Accepted Answer

Yes.

Question 15

What if my dog is shy or nervous around new people?

Accepted Answer

Beverly will take time to allow the dog to adjust to her.  She may also talk the owner through the behavior to ease pressure on the dog.

Question 16

Are you insured and certified?

Accepted Answer

The Well-Trained Dog &Pet Care is licensed, bonded, and insured.  Beverly is a Certified Dog Trainer through the Victoria Stilwell Academy.  She is the only VSA graduate in this part of Virginia.

Question 17

Do you offer any guarantees?

Accepted Answer

Dogs have free will and therefore we can’t guarantee outcomes.  However, if you put in the work, you will see a significant positive change in your dog’s behavior.

Question 18

What’s your cancellation or rescheduling policy?

Accepted Answer

A lesson that is canceled with 24 hours is regarded as a missed lesson.  But if your schedule changes due to a doctor’s appointment, vacation, etc. just tell Beverly as soon as possible and the lesson will roll over to the next time.

Question 19

Do you offer ongoing support after the training program ends?

Accepted Answer

Some of our programs have phone and email support for a period of time; some programs have support for the life of the dog.  In addition, some of our programs have 1 or 2 bonus lessons to be used within a certain period after the program ends in case a new undesirable behavior pops up.

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I've already gone to another trainer for puppy kindergarten but I'm still having problems. Can you help?