What are the credentials of the trainer at Canine Cohorts?
I received my state recognized Professional Trainer certification through National K-9 School of Dog Trainers in Columbus, Ohio. I graduated first in my class in 1984. My professional certification includes basic and advanced obedience, breed identification, kennel management, utility, personal protection, police K-9, and puppy development. I specialize in puppy consults and private lessons for obedience and behavior modification. I also offer residency training in obedience and behavior modification. I am currently a member in good standing with International Association of Canine Professionals and National K-9 Dog Trainers Association.
Our training is conducted in our 4,000 sq. ft. training facility. The facility is climate controlled with dual forced air heating/air conditioning and radiant heating systems for your dog's year round comfort. We have limited the boarding kennel to ten inside/outside runs insuring your dog the care and attention he deserves. Large indoor work areas can be used for exercise and play as well as training and instruction.
At what age should I have my puppy trained?
Puppy training should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home. Puppy manners and socialization should be as important as housetraining. Introduce your puppy to a variety of different sights, sounds and environments. We offer FREE Puppy Consults, which are specifically designed for socialization and behavior modification and is available for 8 to 12 week old puppies. Formal training can begin when the puppy is four months old.
Are there any prerequisites for having my dog trained?
Every dog scheduled for training or boarding is required to have proof of all vaccinations including Rabies and Bordetella.
Some trainers use choke collars, what type will you use?
Check Choke collars are the preferred low impact correction collar. The collar cannot be tightened to restrict air intake when fitted correctly.
The standard training collar is a slip chain collar often referred to as a "choke collar". When used correctly a slip chain collar never "chokes" the dog. The correction is made with a quick jerking action. The collar makes a noise and the action itself draws the dog's attention back to the handler. In conjunction with the correction is a verbal "no" command. You will be instructed as to the correct use of the collar.
Food is a very popular reward for a dog however constantly giving a dog treats can lead to obesity and health problems. A healthy reward is praise and attention. The majority of dogs live to please their masters. A pat on the head and a kind word goes a long way. The dogs that I have trained actually enjoy being worked. For the handler and the dog, a simple walk becomes more enjoyable and less stressful.
What can I expect from obedience training?
Obedience training offers a variety of rewards. The handler can maintain control in numerous situations. It gives you a firm foundation from which to eliminate problem behaviors. Communication with the dog is enhanced. Your dog will learn to heel, sit, down, come, stay and variations of these commands verbally and with hand signals depending upon the level of training desired.
The evaluation is the trainer’s opportunity to meet and observe the dog to determine his trainability. It allows the owner to demonstrate what the dog already knows and to communicate the history of the dog. Specific problems and concerns can be expressed at this time. The evaluation is a free service; you are in no way obligated to have your dog trained.
How much does the training cost?
Canine Cohorts reserves the right to evaluate every dog prior to acceptance at our facility. The personality, temperament, size and socialization skills are considered in the cost of the training. We offer a variety of services and prices to match you needs. See Fee Schedule.