Frequently Asked Questions
Where do training sessions take place?
Generally speaking, the first training session will take place in your home. This is because we want to see your dog’s behaviour in their natural, home environment.
Following this initial session, we may continue to train in your home if the issues you’re working on are related to the home (separation anxiety, for example) or we may move them outdoors if needed (lead walking and reactivity, for example).
How long is each session?
Training sessions are roughly an hour long.
Do you use positive reinforcement training methods?
Absolutely. 95% of our training is based on positive reinforcement methods. Sometimes we add a layer of negative consequences for unwanted behaviours (such as a leash correction), as this can be as neccessary for dogs as it is with humans. But our training methods are very much based on giving your dog a fun, satisfying experience that they enjoy and always want more of.
Does my dog need to be well trained to use your dog walking service?
Not at all. In most cases, we are happy to walk dogs who pull on the lead, are reactive on walks, have no recall etc. Our walks always involve an element of training so that the dogs are stimulated mentally, as well as physically, and this means that the dog quickly learns how to behave when with us. However in extreme cases, we may recommend that you pursue 1-to-1 training first.
What if my dog doesn’t like other dogs? Will they still be put into a pack walk?
We will never integrate your dog with another clients dog without your permission - so don’t worry about that. But just because your dog generally isn’t sociable with other dogs doesn’t necessarily mean that we can’t introduce them to another dog successfully. Thanks to our education and experience, we are well versed in pairing dogs up that would be well suited as well as introducing and integrating them in a way that fosters friendship between dogs.
Do you offer payment plan options?
Yes we do! We totally understand the toll that the cost of living crises is taking on everyone and so we now allow clients to spread payments across two or three installments.
What are your qualifications?
Unfortunately there are no strict qualification requirements in the dog training/walking industries as these industries remain totally unregulated. Despite this, Dundalk Canine places a huge emphasis on training, education and professional development. As a result, all of our employees have a Diploma in Advanced Canine Behaviour from the British College of Canine Studies as a bare minimum. We are also certified in Canine First Aid and are constantly pursuing other courses to deepen our knowledge and understanding of your dog!
Why can’t I book in on your website?
In order to book in with us, whether for training, walking or the Club, we would prefer to have a quick chat on the phone to find out more about you and your dog. This is essential to ensure that we have all of the information we need before taking a new client on and that we are the right fit for you and your dog.