Frequently asked questions.
How do I know if my dog needs professional training?
We love training for all humans and their dogs. It’s a great way to bond, to strengthen your relationship, to create calm at home, and to give your dog the tools and mindset they need to joyfully expand their experience of the world.
Training can be especially helpful if you're experiencing behavioral issues, such as reactivity, aggression, excessive barking, or difficulty following commands.
What happens during a typical training session?
At Fisker K9 Training, we believe in training your dog for real-world conditions. So, once we have assessed your dog's behavior and needs, we get them out into the environments where you want to spend time. This means we train in parks, on walking trails, near stores, and on busy sidewalks. Your dog learns important lessons through specific commands, environmental exposure, situational conditioning, and play.
Who should come to dog training lessons?
Whether it’s the last day of a day-train program, or individual lessons, it’s important that all the dog’s primary handlers attend the human portions of the training. This ensures you have a clear understanding of how to reinforce everything your dog has learned once you go home.
Can you help my dog learn to be less reactive on leash?
Yes, absolutely. We specialize in addressing leash reactivity issues and employ effective training methods to help your dog become more relaxed and focused during walks and out in busy public places.
Can you help with specific behavior problems, such as separation anxiety or aggression towards other dogs?
Definitely. With training, we can address a wide range of behavior issues, including but not limited to separation anxiety, aggression, and fear-based reactions. We tailor our training to target and resolve the specific challenges you and your dog are facing.
Do you use positive-only training techniques?
We tailor our training approach (and our tools) based on what works for your individual dog. Positive-only techniques can be effective for some! Other dogs require additional methods in order to understand “no.” Wherever your dog is on the receptivity spectrum, we use the lowest-possible impact tool needed to introduce safe communication in a language your dog will understand in every environment they’re in.
Do you provide training for specific breeds?
Our training methods are effective for all breeds. We understand that dogs are impacted by their genetics. We adapt methodology based on what we expect will work for your dog’s personality and demeanor. High-energy dogs may benefit from more active working sessions. Stubborn dogs may need more repetition. Bottom line, our approach is tailored to the unique characteristics and needs of your dog, regardless of their breed.
How long will it take to see results from training?
Most of our clients notice a difference in their dogs after just a week or so. For results to become lasting, it’s imperative that the training techniques we show you be continued at home. Training is meant to become a way of life with your dog, and most experts say it takes about a year for behavior to become reliably automatic all the time.
How can I reinforce training at home?
We provide you with clear instructions and guidelines for practicing and reinforcing training at home. Consistency and positive reinforcement in your daily interactions with your dog are important for long-term success.
What if my dog doesn't respond well to training?
We adapt our methods to find what works best for your dog. If a particular approach isn't yielding results, we'll explore alternative techniques to ensure effective communication and understanding.
What happens when training is done?
Our commitment to you doesn't end after the training sessions. As an existing client, you'll have continuous access to ongoing support. We are here to assist and provide guidance whenever needed, ensuring a lasting and positive impact on your dog's behavior.
Are training sessions conducted in-person or virtually?
All of our work is in-person.