Frequently Asked Questions
What are your covid protocols?
For private in-home training I am following what my clients are comfortable with, as far as coming into your home or meeting you outside. For group classes, I have limited the number of dogs and people allowed in class. Per the CDC recommendations, masks will be optional while indoors for all individuals. I'm also following the enhanced cleaning guidelines and all recommended protocols outlined by the CDC and the Governor of Virginia.
What are your fees?
Fees for private training can be found on the private training tab.
Fees for group classes can be found on the group classes tab.
What if I have to miss a week of group class?
While we'd love for you to be able to attend each week of class, we understand that things come up. If you have to miss a class, we will try to have you attend another class that week. However, with space limitations, that may not be possible. Otherwise, we will have you either come 15 minutes early or stay 15 minutes late to the next class. This way your pup can get caught up on what was missed.
How many private sessions will I need?
There is no way to know for sure as there are a lot of factors to take into consideration. The number one factor is owner compliance. Dog training doesn't end when we leave. You will need to continue to work with your dog daily on the techniques you and the dog were taught in our session. However, most people have 1-2 sessions.
Should I do a group class or private session?
The group classes work on basic obedience, advanced obedience, and leash walking. They do not cover any behavioral issues such as leash reactivity, resource guarding, chewing, jumping, nipping, crate training, separation anxiety, etc. The private sessions are tailored to fit your needs and can cover behavioral issues and obedience.
Do you work with aggressive dogs?
We do work with some aggressive behaviors such as leash aggression and resource guarding. If your dog is aggressive toward people or dogs while off leash, please contact us prior to booking.
Do you work with fearful or anxious dogs?
We do work with dogs who have minor to moderate fearful and anxious behaviors. If your dog has severe fears or anxiety, please contact us prior to booking.
I have more than one dog. Can we train both in one session?
Yes! Depending on the situation, you may need more than one session since there are multiple dogs, but we can certainly work with both dogs during one session. There is no additional cost for multiple dogs, as the fees are based on time. It is often more difficult to work with 2 dogs at our facility, so please only book for one dog at a time if you're coming to us. It's much better working with 2 dogs in their own home.
Do you offer packages for private training?
No. I did offer packages when I first started, but what I found was we were covering so much in 1-2 sessions, that people were left with extra unneeded sessions - wasting time and money. I've been offering pay-as-you-go sessions for many years now and it's working much better than packages.
What is your training methodology?
We are positive reinforcement trainers using reward-based, force-free methods. These techniques have been shown to build a better bond with your dog.
Do you guarantee your training?
While we are very confident in our ability to train your dog, the only way we can guarantee your dog will be trained is if we move in with you. I'm sure you'd make a great roommate, but we have our own homes. We can guarantee that if you consistently follow through with the training we've shown you and your dog, you will see results. If the techniques are worked on consistently and you're not seeing results, we will come back at no cost to come up with a new solution.
What is your cancellation policy?
For private sessions, cancellations made 3 days or more in advance of the session date will receive a full refund. No refunds will be issued if you cancel less than 3 days prior to the time of the session.
For group classes, cancellations made 7 days or more in advance of the class date will receive a full refund. Cancellations made within 3-6 days will receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued if you cancel less than 3 days prior to the start of the class.
All cancellations must be in writing either via email or text.
Text: 571-488-9004
Email: april@corecanine.com