Frequently asked questions

A: At Happy Tails Dog Training, we believe that training is something you do *with* your dog, not *to* your dog. Our philosophy emphasizes the importance of building a strong relationship and clear communication between you and your furry friend. Effective training involves setting boundaries, creating predictability, and ensuring that both you and your dog understand each other. Our approach is designed to be a collaborative process, where patience and consistent practice are key. Establishing these foundations takes time and effort, but it results in a more profound, lasting bond. We also understand that obedience skills are not mastered overnight; they are part of a lifetime commitment to ongoing learning and development. By focusing on mutual respect and clear communication, we empower you to positively influence your dog’s behavior and create a harmonious coexistence. At Happy Tails Dog Training, our goal is to make the training journey enjoyable and rewarding for both you and your dog.

A: At Happy Tails Dog Training, the duration of training varies based on your goals and your dog's individual needs. For foundation behaviors, such as basic obedience and good manners, we recommend a minimum of 3 months of steady private coaching sessions. If you're interested in more advanced areas such as sport training or specialty training like therapy dog work, please be prepared for a longer commitment as these require more extensive training. Our goal is to ensure that your dog not only learns new skills but also retains them effectively, making for a happy and well-trained companion.

Yes! We offer a 15 minute free phone consultation for all new clients. Give us a call or send us an email and we'll help you understand a little bit more about your dog and what would be the best fit!

Some classes have an age requirement based on the curriculum being taught or the physical activity of the class. For Young Puppy Preschool, puppies should be at least 9 weeks old and no older than 4months. Always check with your vet! For Adolescent Puppy Class, puppies should be at least 4 months of age and younger than 12 months of age. For Basic Manners, dogs should be 6 months or older. No dog is too old to learn! For Agility Classes, dogs should be 8 months of age or older. For Scent Work Classes, dogs should be 4 months of age or older.

Give us a call or email us (preferred). We will discuss your individual needs and get you set up with an initial coaching session.

YES! We welcome all family members participate in training. When the family is consistent in how they interact with a dog, everyone is happier.

All puppies and adult must be current on Rabies (age appropriate), Parvo/Distemper, Bordetella (Kennel Cough). If you are a new student, please bring a copy of your vaccination records with you the first night of class. Thanks for helping us keep the Center and your fellow students safe! And always consult your vet.

Since we are not a boarding facility we do not offer boarding or board and train services. RyeDoodle Boarding, Training, and K-9 Sport Complex does offer a board and train program. You may reach them at 605- 787-7554. We also strongly urge you read these articles before committing your dog to a board and train program.