How long will training take?

A dog’s behavior depends on many things: breed, age, temperament, etc. In our experience, the factor that works the best to create results is how consistently owners practice once they choose to train with The Well-Heeled Dog. Our methods include an in-depth intake process where we hear about your needs, and make a recommendation for strong results. On average, our clients tell us they can see results in 4-6 weeks. For more serious behavior issues, such as separation anxiety or on-leash aggression, every case is different and can take more or less time to bring under control.

How much work does training require on my part?

If you want us to do all the work, we can!  Then, we just show you how to maintain your dog’s new behaviors.  If you choose to train either in a group setting or in one-on-one coaching sessions, it takes just 15 minutes a day of practicing what you learned.

What will my dog be able to do?

When clients do their homework consistently, we’ve seen their dogs master the five basic skills: heel, sit, down, stay and the foundation to “come when called.”These basics will allow you to take your dog almost anywhere, and you’ll see him behave more politely around other dogs and humans. Your dog will learn to “leave it” rather than lunging for that other dog or for that doubtful piece of discarded food on the ground. And when you say “off”, your dog will learn to stop jumping and give you a desired behavior instead.

How can I get my dog to pay attention?

Dogs are pack animals that function best when they know where they stand in the hierarchy.  If your dog jumps on everyone, doesn’t listen to you and generally does what he wants – guess who’s training whom? He’s training you!    You are the leader of the pack, always! When you train your dog as a puppy you will head off these problems from the get-go. Even if your dog is older and has adopted some bad habits, it is not too late. Choose to train him now. At The Well-Heeled Dog, we’ve seen amazing results!

How can I make sure my kids and dog can play together?

Making sure your dog is trained is one of the basic steps you can take to start seeing to it that your dog and children are safe around each other. Tell your kids to move calmly around your dog, and to play appropriate games such as hide-and-seek or fetch -- not tug-of-war, wrestling or chase. And always supervise both dog and children when they’re together!

For more information about Kids, Dogs & Safety please call us at 310-248-2420.

How do I change my dog’s behavior?

First of all, you need to establish a way of communicating with your dog. He doesn’t speak English; he “speaks” in body language and is trying his best to read yours. Be specific about the results you want to see. Do you want him to sit for attention instead of jumping up? To come when called? To walk nicely on leash instead of dragging you down the street? At The Well-Heeled Dog, you will learn to use clear, consistent signals to show him and tell him what you expect. You will also learn to read your dog’s body language, which can tell you a lot!

How can I have more fun with my dog?

When you establish your clear leadership and provide a structured, trusting and loving environment for your pet – you will see her thrive. She will be happy and confident because she will know what you expect of her. With basic obedience training, you will see that you can take your dog almost everywhere. You will hear that your dog is well-behaved, and clients tell us that makes them very proud. You will learn how to play games with your dog that not only will be enjoyable – they will also reinforce the training you’ve done!

How do I make sure training “sticks?”

When you choose to train with The Well-Heeled Dog, we give you tools to reinforce what you learn during class. You increase your chances for success when you do your homework. As little as 15 minutes a day will make a huge difference.Dogs learn through repetition and consistency. When you do your homework consistently, the behaviors you’re teaching become ingrained. We are always available for refreshers if you elect to formally re-train your dog (and yourself!).