Private Lessons
We believe dogs and people learn better in a one-on-one environment. Because our private lessons are one-on-one, each dog and its owners are the focuses of our trainer’s time. By participating in our private lessons, your dog will start to learn the basics of obedience such as their marker system, focusing exercises, and general obedience. If you are having behavioral issues, this can be addressed during your lesson as well. As your dog progresses during their lesson, we will begin to add environmental distractions by going for walks around the neighborhood, etc.
Training Method
Balanced training is a modern training method that borrows from all previously established training methods. It involves the four quadrants of learning to clearly communicate to your dog about desired behaviors and undesired behaviors. It is a highly individualized approach to training. There is no “cookie-cutter” way to help your dog learn, trainers must get to know your unique dog to help you both achieve your training goals. Balanced training utilizes tools such as clickers, e-collars, toys, prong collars, and food to teach your dog. After all, training is really about becoming your dog’s teacher.
Training Evaluation
We require all new training dogs to go through a training evaluation prior to their first lesson. During a training evaluation, we will meet in person at our facility to discuss your training goals and create a personalized lesson plan for your dog. You will also receive homework to practice with your furry friend in between your evaluation and first training lesson.
Registration
Prior to scheduling any training, we need you to complete our online registration and have vaccination records on file. Registration can be completed by clicking the "customer login" tab on our website.
Once your account is complete, please email your dogs vaccine records to vaccines@dogdenchicago.com or upload a copy of your dog's vaccination records to your account showing they are up to date to the following vaccinations:
Distemper
Parvo
Bordetella
Rabies (if your dog is over 4 months)
Deposit
We require a deposit equal to the full price of the lesson for all training session. Without a deposit paid prior, your appointment is not secure and can be forfeited.
Scheduling
training, etc.? Go straight to our standard lesson!
Registration
Scheduling
Once your account is complete and we have vaccination records on file, we can happily schedule your grooming visit via email info@dogdenchicago.com. Once your training appointment is scheduled, the owner on file will receive a confirmation email and a link to pay the deposit for every scheduled appointment. Without this confirmation email, the appointment has not been scheduled. We do not accept walk-in appointments. If you are unsure whether your appointment is scheduled or not, email info@dogdenchicago.com to confirm.
Cancelation Policy
Cancelation of your lesson must be made 48-hours in advance or you will forfeit your deposit.
Preparing for your lesson
Included in the price of your lesson we include training treats (Stella and Chewy meal mixers) and a training collar. If your dog has allergies, please bring treats.
Please have your dog on a flat collar for your their lesson. If your dog wears a harness, bring an additional flat collar to use during their lesson.
Have a standard leash. (no Flexi or bungee leashes)
Allow your dog to potty before their lesson
Do not feed your dog before their lesson.
