Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Will my dog’s personality change as a result of obedience training?
NO – Your pup will not undergo a personality change. Your dog becomes a better “citizen,” a pleasure to be with. He will mature because of his training, but you can expect a happy, playful pet with exactly the same characteristics as before training.
2. How is dog obedience training accomplished?
Training is accomplished through repetition. Your dog will naturally learn to respect you as his owner and trainer especially when rewarded with positive praise for a job well done and a less pleasing, lower tone of voice when misbehaving. Martin and Shelly will show your dog what is expected of him before any correction occurs. We have perfected this technique over 20 years as professional dog training Houston experts and 1000’s of dogs trained.
3. I know my dog will perform well for you: will he do the same for me?
Your dog will behave properly for you if you take the time to continue working with him regularly. Pet ownership is a responsibility: when you accept a pet into your life you are agreeing to not only care for him and make sure he gets proper nutrition, but you are also agreeing to spend time with him and make him a part of your life. All dogs really enjoy training. We will show you an obedience routine to practice at home with your dog to keep you both happy and in harmony. As your obedience trainer’s we will spend a great amount of time with your dog, so we will be able to recommend necessary changes for your pet’s ideal home schedule and life to make sure that bad habits do not begin to re-occur. If bad habits start creeping back in Shelmar Kennels will provide support and follow up lessons to ensure your success and satisfaction.
4. What is the advantage of having Shelmar Kennels train my dog?
In one word – EXPERIENCE!
We have been professional dog trainers for 20 years in Houston and have trained over 10,000 dogs. This experience gives us the ability to read the dogs behavior and figure out the exact steps necessary to fix the things you don’t like, all without changing any of the dog’s good habits and personality. We regularly incorporate many practical aspects of training to help your dog become a well-rounded, good citizen for you to take home, to the dog park, to friend’s houses or even the Vet’s office – enjoyably and without fuss and problems.
5. Will My Dog Enjoy Training?
Yes! – all dog’s love the attention of being worked with…just like us – they love learning new things…
It normally takes a small amount of time (normally between 1-3 days) for a dog to adjust to being trained in a new place with new people, but when getting away from their daily bad habits and adopting new good habits, they discover the freedom that comes from behaving well – then the sky is the limit!
Dogs love to do new things such as learning new commands, or even tricks; it’s fun and rewarding for your dog.
Training also gives you the ability to take your dog where they can really stretch out and take a nice run or a swim. Dogs always enjoy the company of other dogs, that’s why we spend so much time properly socializing your pup with other dogs. Dog park visits are encouraged with a well-trained dog.
6. Will You Show Me How To Continue Training?
Of course! – In addition to training your dog you will have a lesson on picking them up to ensure continued good behavior as well as fix any habits that are creeping back in. We are experts at teaching the dogs owners, as well as family – because that’s the only real way to get the best behavior from our pets consistently.
7. I’m Busy – How Often Do I Have To Train My Dog?
Repetition is the key to any dog’s obedience success!
The good news is – you can be repetitive in your daily life and routine – such as never letting your dog bolt out of the door. We will schedule a program specifically designed for you and your lifestyle to ensure success without you needing to “quit your job” to own a dog!!
8. I’ll really miss my dog while he is in training: will he miss me?
It normally takes a small amount of time for a dog to adjust to being away from home, very similar to a high school graduate attending college away from home. But he will quickly get into the routine at Shelmar Kennels, enjoying his training and the ability to really stretch out and take a nice run or a swim in the pond. And dogs always enjoy the company of other dogs, so they never feel lonely. In other words, Mom and Dad are going to miss Rover a whole lot more than Rover will miss them!
9. Can I visit my dog during training?
We do not allow visitation during obedience training. It does take a while for us to develop a relationship with your dog, which allows training to progress. In order for your dog to return home in a timely manner, we do not wish to confuse your dog and possibly have him lapse or regress in training with a visit from his owner.
10. How often is my dog worked?
Your dog is worked every day. Repetition is the key to obedience success!
11. How often is my dog allowed to exercise?
Your dog will get plenty of exercise every time he is taken out to train. We encourage running, retrieving and swimming to break the monotony of obedience training. A well-rounded dog is a happy one!