Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the reasons that we find positive reinforcement methods the only viable way we feel comfortable training dogs. Dogs are more likely to learn in an environment where they have autonomy. Positive reinforcement produces a more reliable bond between a dog and their person. Punitive methods may produce short-term results. However, they do not get to the root of the behavior and don't tackle complex issues. Compared to other methods, positive reinforcement has been shown to better help dogs cope with stress. Other methods are outdated and unnecessary for positive outcomes. Additionally, there is a good amount of research and science that indicates that positive reinforcement methods have better results in several areas. Below are some links from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) that discuss the benefits of positive reinforcement training. AVMA Position Statement on Humane Dog Training https://avsab.ftlbcdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/AVSAB-Humane-Dog-Training-Position-Statement-2021.pdf Veterinary behaviorists: No role for aversive dog training practices avma.org/javma-news/2021-11-01/veterinary-behaviorists-no-role-aversive-dog-training-practices

Vaccinations, including Rabies, Distemper, and Bordetella vaccines Spay/neuter for all dogs older than 1 year of age No stays at a boarding facility within the past 2 weeks Your dog is healthy and feeling well. If your dog is feeling sick or hurt, we ask that you call and we will reschedule for that day. Not only do we want to continue to ensure the safety and wellness of all of the dogs in our care, but we also want to ensure your dog is having the most productive training day possible. Prior dog socialization- Your dog must be able to comfortably be around other dogs. If this is not where your dog is and that is something you would like to work on, we suggest that you book a phone consultation. We will work to find the best fit for you and your dog.

Training is from 8:00 am- 4:00 pm. The drop-off time frame is 7:00 am- 8:00 am, and pick-up is between 3 and 4 pm . However, if you plan on picking up after 4 pm, please let us know. All day training dogs need to be picked up by 5 pm. You can do a late pick up between 5 and 6, but there is a $5 late fee charge for each 30 minutes after 5 pm. Transportation can be arranged for a flat $10 fee.

Our website allows you to log in, see your bookings, book additional sessions, and buy pricing plans. Below are the instructions on how to register and access the portal. 1. Go to our webpage and click on the login button in the upper right corner. 2. When the login page pops up, select sign up 3. Fill in your information. Be sure to use the email that you gave to us as correspondence. This ensures that your profile is connected to the contact in our system. 4. Next time you want to access your account, select log in with email.

You can join the waitlist through the Book Online tab on our website. Below is the link directly to the Book Online website. https://www.gooddogstl.com/book-online Select the service that you would like to join the waitlist. Select the day that you would like to add. If it is completely booked, it will give you an option to join the waitlist. If any availability opens up, we will reach out to you directly.

Every day that your dog comes for day training, we send a training report. This training report is completed by the trainer that worked with your dog that day and includes a video. These reports help keep you informed on what your dog is working on and walk you through how to practice the skill at home.

There is no short easy answer for this. Generally, there are several factors to consider, including the following: How social your dog is with other dogs? How social your dog is with people? Is your dog kennel trained? Would they benefit from an intensive training period or a few days a week? How much time do you have to commit to the training skills? Are your dog's behaviors that you are concerned about specific to an area, person, or period of time? Would you rather have a trainer teach the skill and you reinforce it at home or have a trainer work directly with you on teaching the skill? Ultimately, you know your dog better than anyone. However, if you would like to speak to one of our trainers, we suggest you set up a Free Phone Consultation. During this time, we can talk through your needs, availability, and work together to find the best fit.

Our head trainer is CPDT-KA certified, Fear Free certified, a Good Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, AKC Evaluator, and has over 15 years of working with dogs in a professional setting. All of our other trainers have various levels of experience and are at various stages in the process of becoming CPDT-KA certified. However, each are committed to utilizing positive reinforcement techniques and to providing the best training and care to your dog.