Frequently Asked Questions
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WHAT TRAINING METHODS DO YOU USE?
I follow ethical, welfare-first training methods, grounded in positive reinforcement. I am force-free, and do not do anything that causes pain, fear or intimidation such as e-collars/shock collars, leash pops or prong collars.
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DO YOU USE PUNISHMENTS AND CORRECTIONS?
No. This goes against the ABTC and PACT codes of conduct, and my personal code of ethics. Positive reinforcement allows us to focus on what we want the dog to do, rather than just punishing what we don’t want them to do.
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WHAT AREAS DO YOU COVER?
Ashtead, Epsom, Tadworth, Kingswood, Headley, Oxshott, Cobham, Chessington, Fetcham, Bookham, Effingham … other areas may be available on request, don’t hesitate to get in touch today!
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WHAT ISSUES CAN YOU HELP WITH ?
I can help with loads of things! Recall, loose lead walking, jumping up, retreiving, foundational skills such as sit, down, stay, touch, settle, leave, toilet training, engagement on walks, hyperactivity, excessive barking and more. For issues such as separation anxiety or reactivity, or if I believe that some of the issues we face in training could have underlying behavioural or medical reasons, I can refer you on to a qualified and accredited Behaviourist.
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SHOULD I SCHEDULE A 20 MINUTE INTRO CALL?
The intro calls are for anyone that has questions or wants to gain any clarity about my training methods, whether I can help with your issue, how we could work together and more.
It won’t be training advice for your specific situation. That would come if you would like to work together, as I’ll request a much more detailed history on your dog and situation at that point. -
DO YOU WORK WITH ANY SPECIFIC BREEDS?
Here at Proud Dog, I don’t discriminate! I love all types, shapes and sizes of our furry friends, including (but not limited to): Labrador Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Cockapoo, French Bulldog, Golden Retriever, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Dachshund, German Shepherd Dog, Border Collie, Springer Spaniel, Bulldog, Miniature Schnauzer, Pug, Whippet, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu, Greyhound, Lurcher, Jack Russell, Vizsla, Cavapoo, Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, Poodle.
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MY DOG ISN'T FOOD MOTIVATED, WILL THE TRAINING STILL WORK?
All dogs are motivated by something, we just need to find out what that is. It could be that the type of food isn’t high value enough, and something else would work. It could be that playing with toys is actually a bigger motivator than food, or even attention and praise. We’ll figure out what motivates your dog together!
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WHERE DOES THE TRAINING TAKE PLACE?
Depending on what you want to work on and what stage you’re at, I can come to your house, or join you at a park, a local walk, secure field, or other location of your choosing!
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WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?
Payment is due prior to any sessions.
