Frequently Asked Questions

What is your training methodology?

We use a balanced training method, which means that we utilize all four quadrants of operant conditioning, as well as classical conditioning components, in order communicate with our dogs as clearly and fairly as possible. We reward good choices and provide fair consequences for negative ones to give our dogs the clearest possible understanding of our expectations. We want training to be a fun and positive experience for everyone involved, and our ultimate goal is to help you develop a meaningful relationship rooted in trust and respect between you and your dog.
You can read more on the "Our Method" section of our website!

What should I bring with me to training?

All dogs will need a 6' lightweight leash, the type of collar recommended to you by their trainer, and food that they like! Please don't feed your dog prior to your lesson, and instead bring that food, or treats you know they will enjoy, with you to use during training. Please bring your form of payment, your signed contract, and a copy of your dog's updated vaccination records with you to your first session as well.

What vaccinations does my dog need to begin training with Elite Obedience?

We need to see proof of current (age appropriate) rabies, distemper, and bordetella vaccines in order to start training!

We also require that dogs participating in our private lessons or board and train programs are current on flea/tick and heartworm medication, and are free of any known communicable diseases or parasites.

Where will my dog stay throughout their board and train program?

Rather than spending their stay in a kennel environment, dogs participating in our board and train programs will stay in their trainer's home with them throughout the duration of their training program! We find that this setup allows for excellent consistency in day to day training, structure, and supervision, and results in behaviors that are more easily transferred back to the owner's home as well.

All dogs in our care are crated when unsupervised (including overnight) for safety purposes, and to provide them with a safe place for decompression in moments where they need to be away from us. Crate training is a very essential piece of structure and management for any dog, so all dogs in our training programs practice this concept (and we strongly recommend owners continue with this at home as well). Dogs in our programs receive plenty of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization each day, but crate training is another vital component in having a balanced dog capable of being separated from us comfortably as well.

I'm leaving my dog for a board and train- what do I need to send with them?

Your dog will need enough food to last the entirety of their stay with us! Please also bring a leash for them to use while they're here, as well as any training tools you're currently using with them. You will also want to bring a copy of their updated vaccination records, your form of payment, and your signed contract to drop off.

Please also bring any prescription medication or flea and tick/heartworm treatments that will need to be administered during their time with us, as well as any instruction for dosage or administration that we should abide by.

If your dog does well with a blanket in their kennel, please feel free to send a favorite one from home along with them, along with any chews or favorite treats (we have plenty here as well, so this is optional!).

What training tools do you use in your programs?

Alongside using food rewards and interactive play to reinforce positive behavior, we will also utilize training tools as needed to appropriately communicate and proof behaviors in a balanced, fair, and humane way. Our approach will differ depending on each individual dog and situation, but the tools we use (and our favorite places to purchase them) are as follows. Please refer to your trainer's recommendation for sizing and/or model options!

Prong Collar

2.25mm prong collar
3.25mm prong collar

Favorite Vendor: K9 Access (www.k9access.com)

E-Collar

Micro Educator
Dogra ARC
Dogtra 1900s

Favorite Vendor: Amazon (www.amazon.com)

I have an aggressive, reactive, or fearful dog- what should I do?

If your dog is struggling with any type of behavioral issue, please reach out to us to set up a free consultation (either via phone call or in person). That will give us a chance to evaluate your dog and/or chat with you in depth about your individual situation so that we can recommend a training program that will best fit your needs!

We do require all cases of human aggression, dog aggression, intense dog or human reactivity, and severe insecurity or anxiety to be enrolled in our 4 Week Behavior Modification Board and Train program.

FAQ: FAQ