Puppy Head Start Training

• Puppies have a critical socialization period for the first 4 months of life when they respond well to non-scary introductions to all kinds of new things. Not taking advantage of this can mean fear issues later in life
• You can successfully prevent issues like resisting handling for grooming and vet care
• You can prevent food/toy guarding by teaching your puppy that your hands predict good things for dogs
• You can prevent separation-related distress with early training to be happily alone?
• House training doesn’t have to be hard if you set your puppy up for success to avoid mistakes
• Dogs have hard wired “fear periods” when scary things are more scary, and you can avoid your puppy becoming fearful if you handle scary things during that time properly

Have a puppy who is already more than 16 weeks old, or new teen or adult dog?  Our Dog Behavior Consultations help you avoid problems even if your dog may not have had the perfect start in puppyhood.  

In-Person Services and Pricing

Virtual Services and Pricing

What does your Puppy Head Start service include?

• Customized, individual training either in-person or virtually, to teach you all about puppy development and get started with modern training methods
• Identify how to meet your puppy's developmental needs
• Learn to happily get the behavior you want
• Set you and your puppy up for success with management and environmental changes
• Train your puppy what to do instead of just telling them "No, leaving them confused
• Follow-up support and optional training services to help you succeed

What type of training methods do you use?

Research in animal behavior science shows that the best results and most humane techniques involve positive reinforcement, and never physical punishment or intimidation. We adhere to the principle of using the least invasive, minimally aversive (LIMA) methods required while avoiding physical punishment. No one enjoys learning when making a mistake results in fear or pain. That’s why we focus on helping dogs and owners have fun, and rewarding behavior you like. See our training philosophy and values.

Don’t you need to be physically present to train my dog? Why would I choose a virtual training service when in-person training is available?

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, along with the rest of the world, we pivoted quickly to virtual meetings, and an amazing thing happened. Clients were able to learn what to do and how to do it with the help and support of a virtual trainer. Throughout our industry, it is now accepted that virtual services are equal to in-person services for many clients. And because in-person services add a travel fee, virtual appointments are more cost effective. In some cases, in-person follow-up training is available after an initial service (if in service area.)

Do I have to buy an expensive training package?

We know that one size does not fit all when it comes to puppies. We start with a 90 minute service to introduce concepts and methods and get you and your puppy off to a great start. If you’re more of a do-it-yourselfer, or you’ve trained using modern techniques before, that may be all you need. If you prefer more individualized instruction,follow-up services are available individually or in small packages. Sign up just for what you need, when you need it.

In-Person Services and Pricing

Virtual Services and Pricing

Our Puppy Head Start Training includes one month of email support to help with issues as your puppy matures!

Consultations are performed in your home or virtually and will help you with issues such as:

• Socialization, what does this really mean, and how and when should I do it?
• Teaching puppies not to bite
• House training
• Crate training
• Body handling
• Alone training
• Finding the best puppy kindergarten and play groups