Questions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How soon can I get started?
You can begin immediately, or whenever you're ready. If you have, or are getting a new puppy, why not get a head start and take advantage of our expertise early? After all, dog training is dog Raising. Your dog's education began the moment they came to be, and continues to evolve as life unfolds. There are no prescribed start dates or ages to start at DogsUnlimited.
Simply give us a call, send a text, or email us and provide the details of your situation. We'll answer your questions, schedule your Jumpstart™ visit, and customize a training plan that suits your individual needs and goals. If you're in a pinch, we may be even able to attend the same day!
How does the cost compare to group training classes?
Group training programs require structured attendance and often involve "levels" of training with separate registrations, time commitments and fees. Group training or obedience style classes often provide limited results due to lack of personal attention and incomplete assessment. Most group classes cannot address individual behaviour problems beyond generic "tips and tricks" recommendations.
DogsUnlimited on the other hand delivers personalized dog training and behaviour help convenient to your location and schedule. We come to you and the pace is based on your progress and availabilty, not a fixed schedule. There is never a predetermined curriculum so the "what-to-do", and "how-to-do-it" flows from your dog's unique characteristics, your lifestyle, your goals, and the environment.
The individualized approach also eliminates extra cost by focussing directly on the areas most important to you from the beginning. The investment you make with DogsUnlimited is defined by our results, and our guiding principle, Great Dogs. One Owner at a Time.
What training methods do you use?
Part of what makes DogsUnlimited unique among dog training professionals is our knowledge of, and ability to navigate different training methodology. We never encourage applying a pre-determined training method to all dogs. We are proficient in a wide variety of training genres. Above all, we understand how dogs think, and will quickly identify and communicate a path to improvement for you.
DogsUnlimited guides by understanding impact factors. Examples of these include the dog's age, level of maturity, behaviour characteristics and life experiences. Impact factors are not just limited to the dog, but also include environmental and human factors such as family composition, lifestyle, and personality.
Dog training is essentially a process. Different dogs, owners, environments, and situations all need to be contemplated in order to achieve the best results. This has been our strongest asset over the past 30 years.
What makes DogsUnlimited different?
Most training programs begin with a method. DogsUnlimited begins with understanding.
Rather than applying the same strategy to every dog, attention is focused on understanding the individual dog, the owner, their relationship, and the environment in which they live.
This philosophy evolved into The Lifestyle Process™, a personalized approach designed to create practical, lasting results that fit naturally into everyday life.
What are the most important factors in successful dog training?
Over the years, three factors have consistently proven essential:
Personal Attention
Every dog is an individual. Understanding the factors influencing behaviour allows recommendations to be tailored to the specific dog and owner.
Time
Behaviour change is a process. Progress must be monitored, evaluated, and adjusted as necessary.
Communication
Successful training depends on open, available and ongoing communication between the owner and their dog trainer. Questions need answers, challenges need solutions, and progress needs evaluation.
What days and times do you offer training?
Services are appointment-based. Scheduling is flexible and appointment times are available during the day, afternoon, evening, and weekends.
Where do training sessions take place?
DogsUnlimited specializes in real-world, in-home dog training and consultation.Training may take place at your home, around the neighbourhood or anywhere life takes your dog.
Realistic environments help ensure learning experiences transfer into everyday situational behaviour.
Is training done weekly?
Not necessarily.
The frequency of visits depends on individual goals, training needs, maturity, owner availability, and overall progress. Success is equal parts the information itself, and how it is delivered.
There is no prescribed timeline because every dog and owner situation is unique.
How do I know how many visits will I need?
Every situation is different.
Many clients participate in The Lifestyle Process™, which includes up to five appointments and lifetime support designed to address most aspects of training and behaviour over the dog's life. Single sessions are also available and offer a pay-as-you-go option.
The goal is lasting progress, supported by ongoing support and communication whenever you need it.
What happens after my training program is complete?
DogsUnlimited is designed to be a resource for dog owners.
Whether your needs change in six weeks, six months, or six years, ongoing communication and support remain available.
Clients continue to seek advice throughout their dog's lifetime, or as they encounter changes in routine, habits or environment.
What if I have to miss a session?
Life happens.
That's the beauty of DogsUnlimited. Appointments can be rescheduled whenever necessary. You never lose training time because of vacations, work schedules, family commitments, or unforeseen circumstances.
Flexibility is built into the process.
What if I've already completed another training program?
Many clients contact DogsUnlimited after participating in other training programs.
Common concerns include:
- Rejected by a dog training facility due to my dog's behaviour
- Lack of personal attention
- Limited results
- Difficulty applying techniques at home
- Results were good in class, but don't translate well into everyday life situations
DogsUnlimited focuses on understanding the individual dog and owner rather than following a predetermined curriculum.
Do you train puppies or help with young dogs?
Yes.
Early puppy development is one of the most important investments a dog owner can make.
Proper structure, communication, social experiences, confidence-building, and lifestyle habits that suit your goals established early on can prevent future behaviour problems. In fact, people who contact DogsUnlimited in advance of getting their puppy receive a bonus pre-visit consult designed to make bringing your new pup home as hassle free as possible, and avoid having to fix common problems that can get introduced without realizing it. Platinum Pup is our ultimate whole-life service option.
Do you work with rescue dogs and newly adopted dogs?
Absolutely.
DogsUnlimited works extensively with rescue dogs and newly adopted dogs. About 50% of our calls for assistance come from dog owners who have either newly adopted a dog, or will be adopting and want to start off on the right paw.
Many rescue dogs arrive with unknown histories, adjustment challenges, confidence issues, or behavioural concerns. Training focuses on helping both the dog and owner successfully transition into their new life together. The great news about rescue dogs is their new life can also provide a chance to evolve and move away from fear or strict survival based behaviour.