FAQs and Policies

Our day training programs include a training evaluation and assessment prior to enrollment into the program. Our certified dog training team spends a day with your pup evaluating what they already know, what behaviors need work, and analyzing which program path is the best fit for them.

For puppies: Puppies should receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days prior to the first visit to our facility. Puppy vaccinations prior to their first visit include: First booster of distemper/parvo and Bordetella. Puppies should receive their rabies vaccination at approx. 16 weeks of age.

For adult dogs: We require all dogs to be up to date on their vaccinations for rabies, distemper/parvo, and Bordetella.

We use reward-based training techniques and reward dogs with food. Hungry dogs become learning machines! We want each dog to work for their meal during each training session. Please bring their breakfast in a labeled, Ziploc baggy. You are welcome and encouraged to bring their favorite training treats. Treats should be small, pea-sized, soft and chewy treats. Our trainers use Bil-Jac dog food as rewards, as well as several types of soft training treats.

Please bring your dog on a regular, flat buckle or martingale style collar. A front clip harness or a head collar is a great option for dogs who have developed a pulling habit. Our trainers are happy to offer suggestions on what works best for your pup.

We do not use prong, choke or electronic collars in our training programs.

DaySchool instruction is Monday through Friday from 8am to 4pm, however, pups can be dropped off as early as 7am and picked up until 7pm. Our trainers are here until 5pm each day, so if you'd like a chance to see them at check out, please arrive between 4 and 5pm.

Stay&Train drop off and pickup varies due to program selected and by reservation.

Our day training programs include resource materials to set you up for success. Each exercise we teach your dog is explained in our The Dog Ranch Training Handbook. Our puppy program comes with a puppy book to help answer those puppy rearing questions that may arise with a new puppy in the house. Our dog trainers are happy to provide answers to questions at arrival or pick-up each day. We also provide ongoing email support and resources.

For our puppies: we cover all puppy matters of importance, like early socialization and exposure to new objects, people and environments. All Dog and Puppy curriculum covers basic manners, recall (coming when called), loose leash walking, impulse control and how to settle and relax.

Our private lessons are beneficial as you receive one on one instruction specific to your dog. Our trainers can help you develop handling skills to help you teach your dog new skills, improve and maintain skills and also create a lasting relationship with your pup by helping you develop better timing and consistency. Our private lessons can be purchased in 25-minute sessions or 50-minute sessions.

All of our dog trainers are certified through nationally recognized certification programs. Our dog training apprenticeship program is led by a team of trainers certified through the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers. If you see the CPDT-KA behind their name, that stands for Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed. All of our trainers are either certified through this program or are working towards achieving this desired and highly recognized certification.