By Robert Forto, PhD
This is the first of a weekly series of articles on dog training. We will post articles every Friday about this subject on our website Denver Dog Works. It is designed to answer some of the frequently asked questions about the dog training world that is a mystery to many. To others they learn about dog training when they watch a show on cable and realize that they are not alone with their dog’s problems.
At Denver Dog Works we live by our motto every day: We have the Best and Train the Rest. By doing so we hold ourselves at a higher standard. One of the ways that we do so is offer a program called our Works program. We have several levels for both puppies and adult dogs. This type of program is commonly referred to as a Board and Train Program.
There are many important factors to consider in choosing the right training program for your dog with two of those that most people ask when they call are: price and time. This article will answer some of the frequently asked questions by our clients. I encourage you to read though this article and if you still have questions please give us a call at 303-578-9881 or send us an email at train@denverdogworks.com We look forward to hearing from you and help you make your dog achieve your goals and make him be one of the best trained dogs in the world!
Frequently Asked Questions about a Board and Train Program
What is in-board training?
In-board training requires that your dog be left with us at Denver Dog Works for the duration of the training. Our programs enable your dog to learn commands quickly and effectively. Having your dog on site is a key component to the success of our training. With consistent and countless repetition of commands, we accomplish much more than a weekly program.
Why consider in-board-training?
It is the most efficient and effective method of dog training. In a four-week program, your dog will participate in 60 training sessions. It would take 15 months of weekly sessions, and $2,400 to complete the same amount of training, in a private training class. In an eight-week program, your dog will participate in 120 sessions. It would take 30 months, and $4,800 to complete the same amount of training, in a private training class.
How early can I enroll my dog for training?
Puppy Imprinting - 10 weeks or olderBoot Camp - 6 months or olderObedience Training - 6 months or olderAdvanced Obedience - 12 months or older
Where will my dog be kept while in training at Denver Dog Works?
Your dog will stay in one of our boarding suites in Aurora, Colorado, with its own private crate or kennel, and between training sessions, have supervised opportunities to socialize and play. Unlike some boarding facilities with potential health risks and the stress of barking dogs, Denver Dog Works is a fenced and gated property, in a country setting. We want our guests to feel at home, while living in an environment conducive to dog obedience training.
If you do the training, will my dog still perform the commands at home?
Yes. just as service dogs are trained and turned over to their handlers, we complete the training and turn your dog over to you. Upon completion of the program, you will receive a DVD demonstration of your dog performing the commands, plus you will receive two follow up handler training lessons.
Will my dog ever misbehave after it graduates?
Dogs will be dogs. No form of dog training can guarantee that your dog will never misbehave again. However our method of training is effective, yet simple and easy for you to follow. We guarantee follow up assistance for the life of your dog. We stand behind our training!
How will I be able to find out about my dog's progress?
We use email as our primary method of communicating with owners. We send weekly updates that include photos, and a short narrative describing how your dog is responding to training.
How would you describe your training methods?
We use a style of training referred to as operant conditioning, and transition the dog through three phases: acquisition, proofing, and generalization. Through hands-on training and experience, we have developed a variety of ways to teach commands to dogs and use their diverse personalities and temperaments.We start by finding out what motivates the dog. Then we create conditions for the dog to be encouraged to follow commands that occur naturally (sit, down, heel). We focus on timing positive reinforcement, with the dog intuitively offering a response to a command.
What is clicker training, how is it different from your training?
Clicker training is a method of marking behavior with a clicker, which is followed by secondary reinforcement (treat). Clicking a clicker or offering a food treat simply will not stop your dog from chasing down a squirrel. We do not use clickers for training. In the early stages of training, we mark proper behavior with release and reward, however as we transition into phase two the dog learns to perform on command. Our training program is effective regardless of clickers or squirrels.
What is needed to confirm my dog's immunizations are current?
We need vet records confirming your dog has received the distemper combination, rabies, and bordetella (kennel cough) shots. If you do not have these records, they can easily be obtained by contacting your vet.
Whay if my dog is not ready to graduate by the end of the four, six or eight week session?
If your dog is not ready to graduate, we will continue dog obedience training at no cost to you. We guarantee our training 100%.
Can I visit my dog during the training process?
It is not recommended. Once your dog is dropped off at our site, it is normal for your dog to go through an adjustment period. Visiting your pet may prolong transitioning and cause further separation anxiety. In order for the program to succeed, we do not schedule visits for you and your dog until graduation or final pick up.
Why Denver Dog Works?
Your dog will be trained one-on-one by a team of certified trainers and under the supervision of Dr. Robert Forto who is a certified canine behaviorist. Each custom-tailored program, whether it is dog obedience, boot camp, positive behavior modification, puppy training, or working/sports training, is centered in repetition, consistency, and reward for dogs of all ages and personalities. We are certain you will bring home a canine obedient to your commands and prepared to participate in your life.
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Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. Dr. Forto also hosts a weekly radio program The Dog Doctor Radio Show every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com/
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