Frequently Asked Dog Training Questions
What vaccines do you require?
For adult dogs we do not need to see current vaccines, we understand you will be complying with city and state regulations when it comes to your vaccine regime.
Do you accept titers?
Yes, we do but we no longer need proof of such.
Do you allow intact animals in classes?
Yes, we do.
What do I do if my bitch comes into season?
Generally, we have no issues with bitches in season. We do require they wear pants if we are anywhere but your home. Hormones can prevent optimum learning in small cases of dogs but again, we do human coaching, you train your dog.
What should I bring to class?
For all of our training classes, we expect you to bring a minimum variety of 3 different soft dog treats (like pencil erasure size) that your dog loves. It never hurts to toss in a favorite tug toy or bone/frozen kong for brain break downtime. We prefer you don’t bring hard biscuits as they take longer to chew and prevents multiple repetitions. If we are outside make sure to have water for your dog. If you need anything else it will be discussed before your session.
What type of collar and leash do we need?
Whatever your dog is wearing now is fine. If we see a reason to recommend new equipment we will do so. We prefer a 6-foot leash. No retractable leashes, please.
How old does my dog need to be to start training?
You may start as early as 9 weeks (as long as initial vaccines were given at least 7 days prior to training start date).
Where are you located?
Canine Fine Dog Training trains in Longmont, CO near Pace and Mountainview. When necessary we will also do in-home and various public locations.
What do I do if my dog is sick?
Any puppy or dog having diarrhea or vomiting for over 24 hours we ask you to keep them home from training and contact your veterinarian. If your dog is acting lethargic, or limping keep your dog home. Remember if you don’t feel good you don’t want to work and neither will your dog.
My dog may have kennel cough what do I do?
If you suspect your dog has kennel cough OR your dog has been diagnosed with kennel cough please contact us immediately. We request that you do not return to public training areas until your dog has been cough free for 2 weeks and all medications from your vet are completed. We will definitely work with you regarding any rescheduling necessary.
Do I need to bring water for my dog?
Yes, we recommend you bring water and a bowl for your own dog.
Do you recommend a group or private training?
Both. But each dog and family team has different goals and needs. You will want to contact us and talk it over. In most cases, if you aren’t sure, a first visit will be scheduled to better assess your current skills and ascertain your goals and expectations.
Can you help me with my dog’s leash frustration?
Yes, but we need to have you schedule a Behavior Modification first visit. We would like to get more information, your goals, where the dog is starting, and develop a solid behavior modification plan.
Can you help my dog that has separation anxiety and/or biting issues?
We are happy to discuss the challenges you are having over the phone and will gain a better idea if we can help you or refer you to one of our wonderful training partners.
Do you offer dog daycare?
No.
I can’t make it to training what do I do?
Please call or email us as soon as you know you will miss training.
What do you do about inclement weather I don’t want to drive in?
We will do our best to email clients if we will be canceling due to weather in a timely fashion. If you don’t want to attend your training, please notify us ASAP so we can rearrange the rest of the clients for the day.
Weather Policy
We will cancel training if we feel the need at least 2 hours prior to your training time being held. An email asking for a response will be sent and if we don’t hear back, we will call you to ensure you know we canceled.
What is a clicker and do I have to use one if you work with my dog and me?
We do believe in mark and reward (aka clicker) training. You do not need a clicker to communicate with your dog – any sort of consistent verbal noise or word is effective.
The benefit of the clicker over a verbal marker is that the timing is better. We do move off of the clicker when the dog has learned the behavior reliably.
Can my child come to class?
We encourage all family members to be involved. It helps build strong relationships with the dog and family. We ask that children under 7 years of age only come to watch and listen but not participate.