QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

What is the difference between taking classes at a pet store or etc. vs. a training center?

Unlike pet stores, Elk River K9 specializes in one thing - training you how to train your dog.  It’s what we love to do and do best.  Commercial pet stores add small training areas to their stores as a convenience.  While they claim their instructors are experienced, it’s possible your class may be taught by a cashier or groomer.  There are many other limitations when training in a pet store, such as:

1.  Support.  Elk River K9 is proud of the amount of support they are able to dedicate to each student. We are here everyday and can be contacted by phone, email,

or coming in for extra help with any problems you are having with your companion.

We are a full service training center; there is no need to wait for the next class to obtain help. Pet Stores and the like, are mainly only there during class sessions and cannot be contacted for extra assistance. Each instructor at Elk River K9 has their own personal email for you to contact them anytime!  

2.  The size of the area.  Pet stores rope off a very small area for their classes, or have people try to work with their dogs in the narrow and crowded aisles where people are shopping.  Elk River K9 has a large, open space for training.

3.  Lack of matting on the floor.  Most pet stores hold their classes on concrete, linoleum or tile floors. It is very important to train your dog on a surface that is safe for you and your dog. Slippery floors can cause serious injuries to your dog. Dogs should NEVER run or jump on slippery surfaces.  Elk River K9’s training rings are fully-matted for you and your dog’s safety.    

4.  Retail Distractions.  Retail pet stores get a lot more traffic than a private training facility, so you will have more factors working against you while you try to work with your dog.  Elk River K9, is a controlled environment the only distractions are the other dogs and handlers who are there for the same reason you are. Before taking a step into the “real” world it’s better to have a good foundation and know how to handle situations as they arise rather than having to work through a bad experience.   

What can I expect to gain by going to “your” training center?

Hopefully going to any training center will give you an opportunity to accomplish your training goals.  Elk River K9 has experience and recommended trainers, who will take your goals very seriously and help you accomplish them.  We also pride ourselves in having fun and informational classes.  You’ll look forward to coming to class each week.

What makes a good trainer?

A good trainer has a lot of experience with multiple breeds of dogs, and is flexible in their training methods.  A good trainer will be able to “read” your dog and customize your training accordingly. 

How many students are in each class?

We limit our classes to 10 students per class to make sure the classes aren’t too crowded and each student will be able to get personal attention from the trainer. 

Can I come watch a class and see if it is something I’d like to do with my dog?

Yes! You are more than welcome to come watch a class. Please feel free to drop in anytime!  If you call ahead, we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment to give you a tour and tell you about our classes. 

Can an old dog be trained?

A dog is NEVER too old to be trained!  In fact, a lot of older dogs love learning new things. 

My dog is aggressive around other dogs can he/she still come to class?

If you feel your dog is aggressive around other dogs, or even new people, please let us know ahead of time.  We will definitely want to help you, but we first need to know if it’s going to be a risk or too distracting for the other students.  We’ll do a preliminary evaluation of your dog and then determine an appropriate training curriculum for you. 

What if I don’t want to “show” my dog?

Our classes are structured to fit everyone - from “pet homes” who want a well-behaved, manageable dog, to “dog enthusiasts,” who compete with their dogs in numerous different dog sport venues.  Our Basic and Intermediate classes are perfect for those people wanting to learn how to have a “canine good citizen.”

How do dogs learn?

Dogs learn through consistency, repetition and positive motivation.

Why do you advertise matted floors?

 As mentioned above. Slippery floors of any sort can cause serious injuries to your dog. Matted floors provide a non-slip surface for your safety and well as your dog’s.

What kind of collars do you use and why?

We recommend a variety of training collars.  Our recommendations are based on your dog’s needs, and we will instruct you on the proper use of any “training collar”  before letting you actually use it.  We do not use e-collars in our training classes, but we will be happy to discuss the pros and cons of training tools for your private use.  

I just got a new puppy and have never owned a dog before can you help?

We would love to help!  Getting your first puppy is a very exciting, and also very scary experience.  We’ve been through the puppy stage many, many times and can give you advice on any problems you’re having.  We’ll give you information regarding raising your puppy and we’ll let you know what to expect as your puppy grows up. 

Where do I start?

Where you start depends on how old your dog is and how much previous training you’ve done.  Young dogs under five months should always start in a puppy class.  Older puppies or experienced dogs should start in a basic class.  Dogs with some prior training might be best starting off in an intermediate class.  We suggest you give us a call before registering if you have any questions about which class would be the best for you. 

Why isn't there a curtain/barrier between classes? My dog gets too distracted from the other class going on.

The reason we do not isolate each class is because the dog needs to learn to obey their handler around any/all distractions. Ever hear the infamous, "My dog is great at home but, I can't take him anywhere," or "My dog gets too excited when he sees another dog and all he/she wants to do is play."  We are here to teach you how to get/keep your dogs attention in these situations. We teach you how to be a team, and have control in any situation.