FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers about training, program expectations, owner involvement, tools, support, and scheduling.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Payment plan options are available for select programs. Contact us for current options and eligibility.
What training methods do you use?
Our training programs are customized to the individual dog. We focus on communication, structure, engagement, confidence building, and creating reliable real-world behaviors.
Will my dog be fully trained when they go home?
Training does not end when your dog leaves our program. We provide the foundation, transfer the training to you, and give you the tools needed to maintain and continue your dog’s progress.
How often will I receive updates?
Owners receive regular progress updates and training videos every 3 days and have hands-on owner transfer sessions throughout the program that occur every 7 days.
Do you work with aggressive or reactive dogs?
Yes. We offer behavior modification programs for dogs struggling with reactivity, fear, anxiety, resource guarding, aggression, and other behavioral challenges.
How old does my puppy need to be for training?
Our Pawfect Puppy Camp is designed for puppies approximately 10 weeks to 11 months old.
Do you guarantee results?
No ethical trainer can guarantee results because success depends on many factors, including consistency, follow-through, genetics, environment, and owner participation. We provide the training, education, and support necessary to maximize success.
Can my dog become a service dog?
Not every dog is suited for service work. We evaluate temperament, stability, health, trainability, and overall suitability before recommending a service dog training path.
How long does service dog training take?
Most service dogs require approximately 1.5 to 2 years of training. Our Service Dog Foundation Program builds the foundation necessary for future public access and task work but does not produce a fully trained service dog.
Can I visit my dog during a board and train?
In most cases, owner transfer sessions occur throughout the program, allowing owners to stay involved while ensuring training consistency.
Can my dog stay longer than the listed program length?
Yes. While each program has a recommended length, some dogs benefit from additional training time depending on their goals, progress, and individual needs.
Do you provide support after the program is complete?
Yes. All board and train programs include complimentary follow-up sessions, owner education, and lifetime support to help maintain your dog’s progress.
What do I need to bring for my dog’s stay?
We will provide a complete packing list before your dog’s arrival. In most cases, owners provide their dog’s food, medications (if applicable), and any required veterinary documentation.
Why are owner transfer sessions important?
Training is only successful if the owner understands how to communicate with and handle their dog after the program is complete. Owner transfer sessions ensure you understand the training, can maintain the results, and know how to continue progressing with your dog at home.
Do you use training tools such as prong collars or e-collars?
Sometimes. Training tools are never selected based on a one-size-fits-all approach. Every dog is evaluated individually based on temperament, behavior, training goals, and owner preferences.
Many dogs successfully complete training without these tools, while others may benefit from them as part of a larger training plan. Our focus is not on the tool itself, but on clear communication, fair expectations, and creating reliable real-world behaviors. Any recommended tools, their purpose, and how they are used will be thoroughly discussed with the owner before implementation.
Will my dog need a prong collar or e-collar?
Not necessarily. Many dogs make excellent progress without either tool. If a training tool is recommended, we will explain why, discuss all available options, and teach you how to use it correctly and responsibly. The decision is always based on the individual dog and owner.
Will my dog interact with other dogs during training?
Not necessarily. Socialization is not the same as play. Depending on your dog’s goals, temperament, and training needs, we may focus on neutrality, confidence, and appropriate behavior around other dogs rather than direct interaction.
My dog is friendly. Why does training still matter?
Being friendly and being well-trained are not the same thing. Training helps dogs develop impulse control, communication skills, confidence, and the ability to make good decisions in a variety of situations.
Will training change my dog’s personality?
No. Our goal is not to suppress your dog’s personality. The goal is to improve communication, reliability, confidence, and decision-making while allowing your dog to remain who they are.
Do you use food in training?
Yes. Food can be a valuable training tool depending on the dog, training goals, and stage of training. Like all training tools, food is used intentionally and as part of a larger training plan rather than as a one-size-fits-all solution.
My dog has had training before. Can you still help?
Absolutely. Many of our clients have previously worked with other trainers or programs. We evaluate each dog individually and build a plan based on their current skills, challenges, and goals.
Can my entire family be involved in training?
Yes. Consistency is important for long-term success. We encourage all family members who will be involved in the dog’s care and training to participate in owner transfer sessions whenever possible.
What makes Top Paw K9 Academy different?
We focus on creating dogs that can successfully navigate everyday life—not just perform commands in a training session. Our programs emphasize communication, engagement, confidence, accountability, and owner education to create long-term success.
How do I get started?
The first step is scheduling an evaluation so we can learn about your dog, discuss your goals, and recommend the program that best fits your needs.
Do you offer weekend appointments?
Yes. In-person sessions are available Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Weekend appointments may be available between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM with a $55 weekend fee. All weekend appointments must be coordinated and approved in advance and are subject to trainer availability.