TRAINING FAQS
What are the benefits of having a trained dog?
Training opens up a line of communication between you and your dog. This gives you the ability to educate the dog on how they can most successfully co-exist within your family. Being able to enjoy activities like hosting friends at your home, taking walks, running through fields, hiking and going to the beach are some of the benefits that our clients regularly get to enjoy.
How much does training cost?
A dog training course is a small investment for years of enjoyment. The cost of training will depend on your specific dog(s) and the specific goals for training. We have a range of programs and approaches . Check out the "Training" page to see which customized program will best suit your needs.
We also offer consultations where we get to meet with you and help guide you to select the best program for you and your dog.
What types of tools and methods do you use for training?
To sum it up; we research, study, practice and utilize as many of the tools and techniques in dog training that we can get our hands on. The actual training program we use is Foundation Style Dog Training. From the intricacies of food based reward training to the state-of-the-art military and dog sport systems our goal is to be as knowledgable and experienced as possible so that we are best able to serve every dog that comes our direction. The single most important tool that we utilize is our personal philosophies, energies and body language. Every time that we walk into a room or engage with a dog we are teaching them. All other equipment is at our disposal to ensure the most effective learning can take place with the least amount of stress on the animal or the client. Mitch's personal favorite tools are a 20 foot cotton training lead, a clicker and high value reward (food or toy).
How much do I need to practice?
Training a dog takes time and repetition, and your goal should be to train every day. Although this may seem daunting, even 10-15 minutes a day makes a huge difference. If you can train more, that’s even better. And remember, training is not something that happens just when you bring out the leash. Every interaction with your dog is an opportunity to reinforce what you’re learning with us.
At what age should training begin?
Training begins the moment that you bring your dog home. Dogs are always learning so having a well thought out plan from day 1 is highly recommended. We encourage pet owners to begin working with a professional between 3-6 months to prevent behavioral issues from occurring, however it is never too late to start training your dog.
Is K9 Heeling the right dog trainer for me?
Due to our many years of experience, our broad understanding of principles, techniques and tools, and our proven track record of reliable results; typically the answer is "YES".
However, if you're looking for any of the following, we may not be a good fit for you:
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Quick fixes to dog training/behavior
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A purely positive training approach
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Continued success without any work
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Please give us a call if you'd like to learn about anything further or if we can answer any questions: (443) 397 4141.
What if I just want my dog to stop chewing, pulling on the leash, jumping on people, barking etc.?
Obedience training is always the best place to start when you would like to make a change in your dogs behavior. Having the ability to tell the dog not to do something or to do a different behavior in a particular scenario is the most effective and reliable way of reaching your goals with your dog.
How can I get updates while my dog is in your care?
While your dog is in our care you can rest assured that we are doing everything possible to keep them happy, healthy and safe. If your dog is here for a Board and Train program, you will get a "Mid-Week Check In" email every week they are here on Wednesday. In addition, our marketing team does their best with posting all dogs in our car on our Instagram and Facebook stories, however, it is not a guarantee.
How do I figure out what training program best fits my dog and family?
That's a great question! Whether it's our state of the art Board & Train programs or our valuable 1-on-1 lessons, our 1 hour evaluation is perfect if you're trying to figure out the best path to go down. We offer virtual evaluations for $100 or In-Person evaluations for $150.
BoardING FAQS
Is there an evaluation process for a dog to be able to board at your facility?
Yes, we do require a Boarding evaluation prior to a dog's first boarding stay. At this evaluation, we get to know the dog's personality and let them get to know us in return as well. We always like for the dog to have a positive experience with us before staying here long term :) If you'd like to schedule an evaluation with us, you can go to our Boarding page and set it up through there!
Should I bring food for my dog?
No, you do not have to bring food for your dog. We will happily feed our house food (VeRus) at no additional cost, but we find the quick switch in food can sometimes upset their tummies. So we suggest if your dog is here for an extended stay, to bring a few days worth of your dogs food so that we can transition him slowly to our food without any problems.
If you decide to bring your dogs food it must be in an air-tight container, not the original bag. We require a HARD plastic container for the sanitary keeping of your dogs food for their stay with us.
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If you feed your dog Raw food, we can absolutely accommodate. We have a fridge/freezer that we use to store the food.
Should I bring food bowls, blankets, beds or toys for my dogs stay?
We want your dog to feel at home during their stay with us but we already have most of what your dog needs! We have plenty of food bowls and toys, so you can cross those off your list. As far as bedding, if your dog can be in his crate at home without destroying his bedding, feel free to bring it along, if not we have plenty of cots for your dog to sleep on.
Where will my dog be sleeping?
We have an abundance of suites and crates in our climate controlled facility that your dog will rest in at night. Each of our suites are equipped with a high-grade raised Kuranda bed for comfort.
Will my dog socialize with other dogs during their stay?
Absolutely. This is a major part of our ability to help our doggie friends restore balance in their lives. We have daily "socials" which are structured/supervised groups of dogs interacting with one another. We utilize this same format to help dogs with poor social skills become safe and polite within the group.
Daycare FAQS
How does a DayPlay Membership work?
Similar to a streaming service, a DayPlay membership is charged monthly, on the same day of every month. Then, your dog comes on their set DayPlay day each week. For example, a Bronze Member who signs up for Mondays will come on Mondays each week.
What days do you offer DayPlay?
We are currently offering DayPlay on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week.
How long do the dogs typically get outside of their kennel?
We have a morning and an afternoon social, combining to be about 3 - 3.5 hours of active time outside of their kennel. It's important for the dogs to have some downtime in between these socials so that they can rest and recoup some of that lost energy.
Is there training provided during DayPlay?
Why of course there is! Because every staff member on our team is trained as a apprentice Dog Trainer, the level of structure and quality experience. Daily, the staff practice structure and enforce boundaries, polite greetings, and social manners. Every interaction we have with a dog is intentional, in that the dog should be better behaved than when they started.
How do I find out how my dog did during their DayPlay day?
Every time your dog is in DayPlay, they will get an E-report card sent to you at the end of the DayPlay day, where you can find out how they did during the day as well as any doggy friends they made. In addition, we make sure to update you with any information at pick up as well.
Grooming FAQS
Can I make a grooming appointment even if my dog isn't at your facility for Boarding, DayCare or Training?
Of course! Just call, email, or request a grooming appointment in the app and we'll be happy to get that appointment scheduled.
My dog hates being groomed. Is that a problem?
We are willing to give any dog a chance in our Spa. We act with patience and kindness with every dog that enters our facility, and want to make sure they get the proper care they deserve. If a dog seems in excessive stress, we will stop our services and discuss options for future grooming. If you're worried about how your dog will be for their grooming service, please call or email our staff and we'd love to chat with you.
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How often should my dog get their nails trimmed?
We recommend every 4 week to keep their kwiks down. If you want to get a regular schedule, let a staff member know and we'd be happy to automatically make an appointment for you! ​
Hours FAQS
What are our hours?
Lobby hours
Monday - Saturday:
9:00am - 11:30am
6:30pm-7:30pm
Sunday:
5:00pm-7:30pm
Grooming hours
*Days of the week varies*
9:00am-5:00pm
Holiday hours
Our lobby is closed for the following holidays:
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Easter
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Memorial Day
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Independence Day
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Labor Day
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Thanksgiving Day
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Christmas Day
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New Years Day
Daycare is not available on:
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Memorial Day
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Independence Day
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Labor Day
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Thanksgiving Day
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Christmas Eve
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Christmas Day
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New Years Eve
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New Years Day
Our lobby closes at 11:30am on the following days :
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Thanksgiving Eve
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Christmas Eve
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New Years Eve