Frequently Asked Questions
What is your training methodology?
I am a positive fear free trainer, which means I use no tools that will harm the dog or my relationship with the dog. Items like slip collars/leashes, e-collars, pulling the leash and dominance methods are proven in many studies to hinder training. These are tools I do not use. I use a mixture of games, rewards, fear free and pychology based training.
Can you just take my dog to train it?
I am training YOU to train your dog. Your dog is with you 90% of the time, so it is up to you to follow the training plan. I do offer Board + Train packages with a minimum of 2 weeks. This includes transfer sessions from the training to you.
What education do you have?
Unfortunately the dog training industry is unregulated, so anyone can start or say they are a 'trainer'. However, if they are a member of APDTNZ (Association of Professional Dog Trainers New Zealand) then you know this is as close to 'regulated' as possible in NZ. Other international organisations have different ethics, so be warey! I am a member of APDTNZ. I am Fear Free, low stress handling certified and a KPA CTP (Karen Pryor Academy Certifed Trainign Partner) from their Professional Dog Programme for Animal Training and Behavior.
I have a behaviour problem with my dog, what do I do?
Get in touch! Let me know the problem you are having, breed and age of your dog. I'll then book you in for an inital consult. Sometimes, depending on the issue the inital session is done online for information gathering and a plan. You then might like to bulk purchase money-saving packages. Online or face to face. You need to do your homework and follow the plan to see results. Training takes time, but it is worth it!
I have a puppy coming. Do I have to go to Puppy School?
A well run puppy school is a valuable part of puppy socialisation. It is not about sits/downs etc. Any dog at any age can learn these things! We go through obedience, but concentrate on skills puppies cannot learn later in life that many people miss!
Working next to other pups is a chance to have safe interactions with other puppies. know what is good/bad play, dog communication and learning through play.
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Our Puppy Programmes are currently held at Pet First in Queenstown & Waikiwi Vets in Invercargill.
I don't live in Queenstown, Central Otago or Southland. Can you still help?
Yes! I have some online classes along with very successful online behaviour modification sessions. I have a growing online video training library. It doesn't matter even if you live overseas! Here to help!