Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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• Where do you train?

  • In the comfort of your own home, virtually via Google Meet, or in any dog-friendly location that you need to practice!​
     

• Is your trainer certified?

  • Yes! Arie is certified through the Certification Council of Pet Dog Trainers. Learn more on our Trainer Qualifications page.
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• What areas do you serve?

  • We serve Lancaster county and surrounding areas. There is no travel fee for clients within a 30-minute drive or less. There is a travel charge for distances beyond 30-minutes from Arie's location.
     

• What is the role of the dog trainer?

  • The primary role of the trainer is to teach you how to interact with and train your pup. Dogs respond best to those that train them directly so you will achieve the best results when you do the training. Our trainer will design your training plan, demonstrate each step with you and your pup, and coach you through all the skills that you'd like your pup to learn.
     

• How much do sessions cost?

  • It depends on the services you choose! Submit a Training Request Form to describe your needs and we'll be happy to quote you a price based on your goals and needs.​
     

• What types of payment do you accept? 

  • We accept all major credit cards as well as cash payments. We do not accept personal checks.
     

• What happens at a training session?

  • The first training session will consist of gathering background information, learning your needs, setting goals, developing a training plan, and beginning training. Subsequent sessions will primarily focus on evaluating progress, revising your plan as necessary, and training new and previously learned skills. The first session is approximately 90-120 minutes (depending on type of session) while subsequent sessions are approximately 60 minutes.  ​
     

• Do I need to practice between sessions? 

  • ABSOLUTELY! The role of the trainer is to teach you how to train your pup during our sessions and begin working on skills. You must work with your pup between sessions to reinforce these behaviors. Like any skill, practice is essential to mastering the behavior. ​We recommend that you practice with your pup every day while they are learning new skills. These practice sessions do not need to be long (5-15 minutes) but frequent practice is absolutely necessary.
     

• What age dogs do you train?

  • We train dogs of ANY AGE from 8 weeks old. Even young puppies can begin obedience training and no dog is too old to learn new skills!
     

• What breeds do you train?

  • We train ANY BREED. We do not discriminate against any breed at Pups Unleashed.​
     

• Can I do this virtually?

  • It depends! Some complex behavior issues may need to be evaluated/trained in-person ​but the majority of skills and problem behaviors can be tackled virtually or with a hybrid program. Contact Arie with questions. 
     

• How many sessions do I need?

  • It depends on your pup's needs and your training goals. You can purchase single sessions at a time or a package of sessions for a discounted rate. You can also upgrade to a package AFTER your first session without losing the discounted rate (we recommend this option).
     

• What is reward-based training?

  • Reward-based training uses treats or other things that are enjoyable to your dog (toys, affection) to increase desirable behaviors and decrease problem behaviors. Our methods are force-free, never using methods or tools that shut down behaviors using pain or intimidation. The truth is, there is NO NEED for aversive tools for trainers that are willing to dig deep and understand a dog's behavior. From puppy training to Read more on the Training Philosophy page.​
     

• I'm not sure if I need training or not. What should I do? 

  • Whether it is with a professional trainer or on your own, all dogs benefit from training. Contact us to see if we're a fit for you and your pup!  ​ ​
     

• I'm interested. What's next?

  • Submit a Training Request Form to describe your needs. Arie typically replies to all training requests via email within 24