Just the FAQs

An e-collar is a remote training collar that uses gentle stimulation to help communicate with your dog from a distance. The handler controls the collar with a remote, allowing clear communication up to 300 yards.

When used properly, an e-collar is not a punishment or a “shock” tool. It is designed to get your dog’s attention, similar to a tap on the shoulder or a phone set to vibrate. The goal is to help your dog stay focused, understand commands, and respond reliably to the handler.

No. Most dogs adjust well to the e-collar when it is introduced correctly. Many dogs begin to associate it with positive activities like going outside, running, playing, training, and spending focused time with their owner. With proper training, the e-collar becomes a communication tool, not something your dog fears. You may even notice your dog coming over calmly and waiting for the collar because they know it means they are about to train, play, or enjoy more freedom.

No. During our first meeting we will put the e-collar on your hand and you will feel the mild stimulation. A common misconception is the e-collar will burn their skin. This is false. Other people think the e-collar is equivalent to being shocked with a taser, this is also false. We are dog trainers because we LOVE dogs and we would never do anything to harm them! Furthermore, we would never do anything to a dog we will not do to ourselves. Bottom line: the e-collar is safe and is tested on humans.

Yes. If you selected an e-collar training program, you should continue using the e-collar. Consistent reinforcement of what you and your dog has learned is essential to the success of your training journey. Your trainer will be available to answer any questions you may have. Remember training is not a “magic pill,” it is a lifetime process.

Yes! We have lessons and board and train options that do not utilize the e-collar. Contact us to learn more.

All of our lessons are private. You and your pup will receive individualized instruction from a professional trainer.

Our lessons are conducted at our facilities in Christiansburg and Vinton.

Generally, we do not like to train dogs inside the house! Why? It is easy for dogs to listen when they are in their own home. It is a familiar environment. If your pet trains in an unfamiliar environment, with distractions, they should listen to your commands anywhere.

We teach you how to incorporate this training into your daily routine. We ask you to spend 35-45 minutes per day working with your dog for the first four-weeks of training to set a good foundation for the training, but after integrating the training into your daily routine, maintenance will be easy! However, the timeframe could vary depending on your dog.

Basic Obedience is generally done in FOUR lessons. Each lesson is an one hour, private session. You must wait at least seven days between lessons so you have time to practice. As a result, the Basic Package usually takes a month to complete. After completion of basic obedience training your K9 will be ready for the advanced obedience classes.

We also offer one, two and three week Board and Train Programs. Your dog stays with one of our amazing trainers and completes the outlined curriculum. The curriculum vary so contact us to learn more.

Generally, we can start e-collar training when your dog is five-months old.

Not a problem! We can still train your pup using the marker/treat method. This will give your new pup a solid foundation for basic obedience. We offer a private lessons package and a 3-week Puppy Jump Start (residential program) for puppies.

We love small dogs. E-Collar training will work for your canine companion, both small and large.

Your dog will benefit tremendously! Most behavior problems (biting, chewing, jumping, etc.) are based off a lack of exercise, discipline, and out of boredom. With this training, your dog is receiving top-quality obedience training, which in turn, allows you to give your dog freedom to run around and play. By investing in training, you are investing in the welfare and happiness of your dog. Our goal is to see your dog running freely off-leash so it is getting exercise and you have full recall. Not only does all of this greatly benefit your dog, but it also benefits you and your family. Remember, if you do not employ your dog and give it a job to do (training), it will become self-employed. A self-employed dog will cost YOU money!

Dog training costs depend on the type of program, number of lessons, training approach, and your dog’s behavioral needs. Available options include private obedience lessons, puppy training, board-and-train programs, behavior modification, and therapy-dog preparation.

 Review the current dog training plans and pricing for program fees and details.

The cost of board and train depends on the length and goals of the program. Available options include one-, two-, and three-week residential training programs. 

Visit the Plans and Pricing page to compare current board-and-train costs, included equipment, and training goals.

Board and train is a residential program in which your dog stays with a professional trainer for focused daily instruction. Depending on the selected program, training may cover recall, sit, down, place, heel, leash manners, greeting manners, and obedience around distractions. 

Compare the available board-and-train and dog training packages.

Board-and-train programs currently range from one to three weeks. Shorter programs focus on foundational leash manners, while longer programs provide more time for obedience, public exposure, distraction work, and behavior management. Review the available board-and-train programs to determine which option may fit your dog.

Board and train can be worthwhile for owners who need immersive professional training and support with everyday obedience. Long-term success still requires owners to follow the trainer’s instructions and reinforce the learned behaviors at home.

 Read the business’s dog training testimonials to learn about other owners’ experiences.

Puppies can begin learning foundational skills early, but age requirements vary by program. Puppy lessons are available for dogs over 10 weeks and up to six months old, while basic obedience training generally begins at five months. 

View the puppy and obedience training options for current age requirements.

Yes. Puppy training options include private puppy lessons and residential puppy programs. Training may introduce engagement, marker words, recall, sit, down, place, leash manners, routines, structure, and appropriate exposure. Explore the available puppy training programs to compare options.

Puppy training can help owners establish more consistent routines for potty breaks, crate use, feeding, play, rest, and supervision. Puppies still need continued practice and reinforcement after formal training.

 Contact a professional dog trainer to discuss your puppy’s age, routine, and current challenges.

Professional training may help owners improve control and manage aggression more safely. The appropriate approach depends on the dog’s triggers, bite history, temperament, anxiety, and behavior around people or other animals. Learn more about the available dog aggression and reactivity training.

Reactivity may be improved or managed through structured obedience, gradual exposure, clearer communication, and consistent owner participation. Results vary according to the dog’s temperament, triggers, history, and severity of the behavior. Review the available behavior modification training programs or schedule an evaluation.

Yes. Private lessons allow the trainer to work directly with one dog and owner at a time. Available options include foundational obedience, advanced obedience, puppy lessons, behavior modification, and therapy-dog preparation. Explore the available private dog-training packages.

In-home training may be available in select service areas. Availability and possible travel charges can depend on the client’s location and selected program. Check the current dog training plans and program details or contact the team to confirm whether your address qualifies.

Yes. Dogs must be fully house trained for the 2-week and 3-week Board & Train programs. If your dog is not fully house trained yet, private lesson packages may be a better fit so you can build obedience and structure while continuing to work on house training at home.

Some programs include off-leash recall and obedience around distractions. However, off-leash suitability depends on the dog’s temperament, reliability, reactivity, anxiety, and response to training. Explore the available off-leash dog training programs to learn what may be appropriate for your dog.

Professional training can teach clearer leash manners, heel, greeting manners, and commands used to interrupt unwanted jumping. Continued improvement depends on consistent practice and reinforcement from everyone handling the dog. View the basic and advanced obedience programs for relevant training options.

During Board & Train, your dog stays with one of the professional trainers in their home. This gives your dog a structured training environment while working on obedience, manners, and real-world skills. After the program, you receive a one-on-one session to learn how to continue the training at home.

Depending on the program, dogs may learn come, sit, down, place, heel, loose-leash walking, greeting manners, door manners, meal manners, and obedience around distractions. Advanced skills vary by package. Review the complete dog obedience training curriculum before selecting a program.

Older dogs can still learn obedience skills and improve unwanted behaviors. The right program depends more on the dog’s health, temperament, behavioral history, and ability to participate than age alone.

 Explore the available dog training packages for puppies, adult dogs, and dogs with behavioral concerns.

The Therapy Dog Preparation Program helps dogs and owners prepare for therapy-dog testing and certification. It includes private lessons, public exposure, work around relevant distractions, and Canine Good Citizen practice. The program provides preparation but does not itself constitute formal certification. Learn more about the Therapy Dog Preparation Program.

The business serves dog owners throughout the New River Valley and Roanoke region. Training availability can depend on the requested program and the client’s location. Visit the contact page to confirm service coverage and request a free phone consultation.