We have compiled answers to some of the most common questions about our services. If you have
additional questions that are not covered here, please contact us.
General
Exercise - Dog Running and Dog Walking
Obedience Training & Behavior Modification
What's your policy regarding age? Do you run puppies?
It's generally recommended that you wait until a dog is 9 to 18 months old before beginning structured exercise because of the potential risk of chronic injury to developing bones and joints. If your goal is for your dog perform running sessions when he/she is full grown, we can start with sessions that mix walking with light jogging intervals. The approximate age/exercise rule of thumb:
Small dogs (1-45 lbs): wait until the dog is over 8 months
Large dogs (45-95 lbs): wait until the dog is over 1 year
Giant dogs (over 100 lbs): wait until the dog it over 1.5 years
Are there any dogs you won't work with?
We work with all breeds. We treat all dogs as individuals, as such, dogs with difficult behavior issues will still be assessed and special conditions may apply. We reserve the right to stop working with a dog at any time.
I think my dog could benefit from regular runs, but he doesn't walk very well on the leash, can you still work with him?
Yes. While running with a polite pooch is easier and safer for everyone, we recognize that this is difficult for many dogs. Each dog is assessed on an individual basis and if pulling is a problem, we can work with you and your dog to improve his on-leash behavior for both walking and running.
How long do I have to wait after my dog gets spayed or neutered to start up an exercise program?
We will walk a dog after the initial two to three day recovery period, until the sutures are removed, only then will we begin (or resume) the running program. It's better to have a slightly restless dog than one with an infection and/or torn sutures that requires additional medical treatment! Always follow your vet's advice.
I'm interested in signing my dog up for your running service, what needs to occur before my dog can get started?
Before starting any exercise service we perform a free fitness evaluation to assess your dog's general fitness level and ability to safely walk and run on leash.
It's generally recommended that you wait until a dog is 9 to 18 months old before beginning structured exercise because of the potential risk of chronic injury to developing bones and joints. If your goal is for your dog perform running sessions when he/she is full grown, we can start with sessions that mix walking with light jogging intervals. The approximate age/exercise rule of thumb:
Small dogs (1-45 lbs): wait until the dog is over 8 months
Large dogs (45-95 lbs): wait until the dog is over 1 year
Giant dogs (over 100 lbs): wait until the dog it over 1.5 years
Are there any dogs you won't work with?
We work with all breeds. We treat all dogs as individuals, as such, dogs with difficult behavior issues will still be assessed and special conditions may apply. We reserve the right to stop working with a dog at any time.
I think my dog could benefit from regular runs, but he doesn't walk very well on the leash, can you still work with him?
Yes. While running with a polite pooch is easier and safer for everyone, we recognize that this is difficult for many dogs. Each dog is assessed on an individual basis and if pulling is a problem, we can work with you and your dog to improve his on-leash behavior for both walking and running.
How long do I have to wait after my dog gets spayed or neutered to start up an exercise program?
We will walk a dog after the initial two to three day recovery period, until the sutures are removed, only then will we begin (or resume) the running program. It's better to have a slightly restless dog than one with an infection and/or torn sutures that requires additional medical treatment! Always follow your vet's advice.
I'm interested in signing my dog up for your running service, what needs to occur before my dog can get started?
Before starting any exercise service we perform a free fitness evaluation to assess your dog's general fitness level and ability to safely walk and run on leash.
What training method do you use?
We strive to implement an approach that will help the dog learn as effectively and efficiently as possible, while also being comfortable and natural for the owner. We use a balanced approach that provides a full range of feedback to the dog: positive reinforcement, behavior interruption, motivation, and help. The training tools we use are either remote training collar, or leash and collar. Read more about our training philosophy, tools, and methods, and learn how to find a training approach that's right for you.
I've done training in a group class before and am still having problems with my dog. How will your training be different and/or more effective?
There are many reasons that obedience training done in group classes often doesn't "stick." The instructor in a group class simply doesn't have time to give you the one-on-one help you need to address specific behavior problems, and you're required to do the bulk of the training and problem solving on your own. Our obedience training service offerings provide one-on-one instruction for you and your dog, and we start addressing your dog's behavior problems right away.
Group classes often take a casual approach to training, positioning the commands as a "fun game for you and your dog." While this may be okay for puppies or dogs with no behavior problems, dogs that are hyperactive, aggressive, or anxious need more structure in order to be successful at overall behavior modification. Obedience training needs to be seen by the dog as an important job he must perform, not merely a game. Your dog will enjoy learning and communicating with you using our training approach, but he'll also take the training (and you) seriously. Read more about our training philosophy, tools, and methods and learn how to find a training approach that's right for you.
Do you offer group classes?
No, we do not currently offer group classes. We offer the following dog training options: board and train, in-home training, and private lessons.
I'm interested in obedience training, how do I get started?
Before starting any obedience training or behavior modification service we perform a free in-home consultation to assess your unique situation and recommend the most effective training approach to fit your situation.
If you train my dog, how will he know to listen to ME?
No matter which training program you select to train your dog, we give YOU the tools you need to continue working with your dog for the rest of his life. We teach you how to follow through when you give a command and how to properly praise, motivate, and correct when necessary. We also provide additional exercises and suggestions to help you become the empowered, confident leader that your dog will naturally respect. Once your dog realizes that you and he understand the same language, he'll be excited to work with you!
My dog already knows basic obedience but he has a specific behavior problem. Can you address his behavior problem?
Yes. The root of most behavior problems lies in the dog having excess energy, frustration, confusion, stress, and anxiety. Once we understand the root cause of your dog's behavior problems and identify the contributing factors, we recommend modifications to your lifestyle and routine. This can include a change of food, increased exercise, more consistent rules and boundaries, a more effective way to correct the dog's unwanted behavior, etc. Please contact us to schedule a free consultation to find out more about how we can help!
Do you work with aggressive dogs?
All dogs are evaluated on an individual basis. A decision about whether or not to take on an aggressive dog isn't usually made until after the dog has been observed. We reserve the right to refer any potential clients that we feel we cannot adequately assist.
We strive to implement an approach that will help the dog learn as effectively and efficiently as possible, while also being comfortable and natural for the owner. We use a balanced approach that provides a full range of feedback to the dog: positive reinforcement, behavior interruption, motivation, and help. The training tools we use are either remote training collar, or leash and collar. Read more about our training philosophy, tools, and methods, and learn how to find a training approach that's right for you.
I've done training in a group class before and am still having problems with my dog. How will your training be different and/or more effective?
There are many reasons that obedience training done in group classes often doesn't "stick." The instructor in a group class simply doesn't have time to give you the one-on-one help you need to address specific behavior problems, and you're required to do the bulk of the training and problem solving on your own. Our obedience training service offerings provide one-on-one instruction for you and your dog, and we start addressing your dog's behavior problems right away.
Group classes often take a casual approach to training, positioning the commands as a "fun game for you and your dog." While this may be okay for puppies or dogs with no behavior problems, dogs that are hyperactive, aggressive, or anxious need more structure in order to be successful at overall behavior modification. Obedience training needs to be seen by the dog as an important job he must perform, not merely a game. Your dog will enjoy learning and communicating with you using our training approach, but he'll also take the training (and you) seriously. Read more about our training philosophy, tools, and methods and learn how to find a training approach that's right for you.
Do you offer group classes?
No, we do not currently offer group classes. We offer the following dog training options: board and train, in-home training, and private lessons.
I'm interested in obedience training, how do I get started?
Before starting any obedience training or behavior modification service we perform a free in-home consultation to assess your unique situation and recommend the most effective training approach to fit your situation.
If you train my dog, how will he know to listen to ME?
No matter which training program you select to train your dog, we give YOU the tools you need to continue working with your dog for the rest of his life. We teach you how to follow through when you give a command and how to properly praise, motivate, and correct when necessary. We also provide additional exercises and suggestions to help you become the empowered, confident leader that your dog will naturally respect. Once your dog realizes that you and he understand the same language, he'll be excited to work with you!
My dog already knows basic obedience but he has a specific behavior problem. Can you address his behavior problem?
Yes. The root of most behavior problems lies in the dog having excess energy, frustration, confusion, stress, and anxiety. Once we understand the root cause of your dog's behavior problems and identify the contributing factors, we recommend modifications to your lifestyle and routine. This can include a change of food, increased exercise, more consistent rules and boundaries, a more effective way to correct the dog's unwanted behavior, etc. Please contact us to schedule a free consultation to find out more about how we can help!
Do you work with aggressive dogs?
All dogs are evaluated on an individual basis. A decision about whether or not to take on an aggressive dog isn't usually made until after the dog has been observed. We reserve the right to refer any potential clients that we feel we cannot adequately assist.
Are you insured and bonded?
Yes, we're insured and bonded to protect you, your dog, and ourselves in the event of an accident. Though it is important that we have it, we take every precaution up front to ensure we never need to use it.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, personal checks, and money orders. To learn more, view our Payment Policies.
How do you access my dog if I'm not there?
We arrange for attached-garage access, or an extra key to be stored at our headquarters or on-site in a secure combination lock-box outside your door.
Why do you need my dog's medical history and vaccination information?
As a safety precaution for your dog, we are primarily looking for current vaccinations and any conditions that may adversely affect your dog during exercise or training.
I don’t believe in vaccinations for my pets but I’d like to use one of your services. What can you do to accommodate my situation?
In order to comply with Minnesota State law, we do require a current rabies vaccine within the last three years and cannot accept a strong titer as an alternative. The other two diseases for which titer tests are most commonly administered are Distemper and Parvovirus. A strong titer test for both of these within the last five years will be accepted in lieu of the DAPP or DHLPP combination vaccine. Titer test results must be provided by your veterinarian.
What if I have to cancel my session at the last minute?
We ask that you notify us at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled session in order to obtain a refund or reschedule the session. Please view our Payment Policies for additional informtion.
What do you do in the event of severe weather? Do you still run and train in the heat and cold? What about storms?
We run and train dogs all year round and in varying weather conditions but we will never put your dog in danger. We monitor weather conditions and cancel runs and training sessions in advance in the event of severe weather such as tornadoes, thunderstorms, blizzards, and extreme heat or cold. In the event of spontaneous severe weather we will end the session immediately and take shelter to protect your dog and ourselves.
Yes, we're insured and bonded to protect you, your dog, and ourselves in the event of an accident. Though it is important that we have it, we take every precaution up front to ensure we never need to use it.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, personal checks, and money orders. To learn more, view our Payment Policies.
How do you access my dog if I'm not there?
We arrange for attached-garage access, or an extra key to be stored at our headquarters or on-site in a secure combination lock-box outside your door.
Why do you need my dog's medical history and vaccination information?
As a safety precaution for your dog, we are primarily looking for current vaccinations and any conditions that may adversely affect your dog during exercise or training.
I don’t believe in vaccinations for my pets but I’d like to use one of your services. What can you do to accommodate my situation?
In order to comply with Minnesota State law, we do require a current rabies vaccine within the last three years and cannot accept a strong titer as an alternative. The other two diseases for which titer tests are most commonly administered are Distemper and Parvovirus. A strong titer test for both of these within the last five years will be accepted in lieu of the DAPP or DHLPP combination vaccine. Titer test results must be provided by your veterinarian.
What if I have to cancel my session at the last minute?
We ask that you notify us at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled session in order to obtain a refund or reschedule the session. Please view our Payment Policies for additional informtion.
What do you do in the event of severe weather? Do you still run and train in the heat and cold? What about storms?
We run and train dogs all year round and in varying weather conditions but we will never put your dog in danger. We monitor weather conditions and cancel runs and training sessions in advance in the event of severe weather such as tornadoes, thunderstorms, blizzards, and extreme heat or cold. In the event of spontaneous severe weather we will end the session immediately and take shelter to protect your dog and ourselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Twin Cities Metro Area
612.886.1920
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