Frequently Asked Questions
What type of training methods do you use?
My methods are best known as clicker/marker training with an emphasis on positive reinforcement and a force free approach. We will discuss what reinforces your dog in different environments and situations to teach them new behaviors.
Do you use electronic collars, metal prong/choke collar, corrections, etc?
I don’t use them in my training. The simplest answer is that I don’t need to. We will discuss a plan if you are currently using them to phase out their usage.
Why do you start clients with a virtual consult? Why isn’t it free?
I have been in this profession for over 10 years. When I start with a new client, having a premeditated conversation before meeting in person is beneficial for everyone’s time. Your consultation will also come with a personalized email afterward that includes resources that describe your dog’s current behaviors. Prior to meeting with any new person and their dog, there is also an aspect of safety that is involved for myself and the dog to make sure the learning environment will be beneficial for them.
Do you offer board and train services or pet sitting?
I do not offer board and train services. Pet or dog sitting is rare since my own dog is very selective about the dogs she meets and I respect that. As an alternative, I offer dog walking, drop in services, and day training programs.
What type of behaviors do you work with?
I specialize in aggression (human and animal related), reactivity, foundational skills, handling issues, puppy socializing, multiple dog households, and fear free approaches to veterinary visits and the groomers. I do not take separation anxiety cases or any service dog task training. I have referrals for both of these if needed. Please email me at manneredmisfits@gmail.com.
Do you guarantee results for my dog’s behavior?
Dogs are sentient beings with complex feelings. It is impossible to guarantee the behavior change of a living being. During our time together, we’ll be looking into the functions of your dog’s behavior, how to understand it, and what will help both of you progress together in your training journey.
Is virtual training even beneficial if we can’t meet in person?
Yes. I have had virtual clients with amazing results in the following locations:
Twin Falls, ID
Nampa, ID
Portland, OR
Vancouver, WA
Salt Lake City, UT
Garden Valley, ID
Washington, D.C.
Spokane, WA
Where do our training sessions take place?
Training takes place in your home, since I prefer to work in the environment your dog is comfortable in. From there, we can expand to new environments as long as your dog is showing progress. Virtual sessions take place via Zoom or Google Meet.
How did you get started with dog training?
I adopted my first dog, Layla when I was in my early twenties. Layla had aggression issues with humans, animals and children. She was reactive to things on leash, would resource guard spaces and food/toys, had handling issues, and had bitten several people including me. Over the course of our time together, we discovered that she had been having seizures.
My first nine months with Layla were spent trying to punish her for behaving the way she did. She changed my mind on the way I approach dogs and their behavior. We had an amazing ten years together and she crossed the rainbow bridge on December 23rd, 2023. Layla shaped my career and is the reason why I do what I’m doing today.