Our training is done in three steps; teaching, confirming and perfecting. Each step is a building block for the next.

1st Step - Is teaching the dog the association between the command and the action. (Ex. Placing the dog into a sit, while saying the word 'sit'.)

2nd Step - Teaching the dog that obedience commands are not optional, and the action must be done the first time the command is given.

** These two phases are the most time consuming, and most frustrating… patience and consistency are a must.

3rd Step - Is perfecting the commands taught by exposing the dog to new environments and distractions.

Each dog is treated as an individual, so before any training recommendations/instructions are given rrruff-RULES will request an appointment for a consultation. The purpose of the consultation is to meet with you (and whomever will be involved with the training) your dog, and to allow the trainer an opportunity to discuss any specific problems as well as discuss your expectations and goals.

After the consultation, rrruff-RULES will complete and send (most often via email) a training proposal which will include a summary of concerns & expectations, as well as a recommendation of training content and duration.

Options
rrruff-RULES offers private lessons as well as board training. And we can help you in selecting a dog best suited for your family and lifestyle.

Dog Selection Finding a life long companion for the family can be daunting, with so many breeds, sizes, looks, and personalities — its' extremely important to find the right fit the first time. rrruff-RULES can assist with establishing a list of criteria and will accompany you to breeders, adoptions, etc to ensure you are picking the 'perfect' dog for your lifestyle.

Private Lessons
Often (depends on the rate of learning) scheduled one week apart.   These one hour lessons are comprised of the most common basic manners; sit, stay, down, heel, come, leave it, drop it, take it, off, shake, no bark, free, etc. The number of private lessons and the specific commands included will be determined as a result of the consultation meeting. These are billed at an hourly rate. For locations over ten miles from the facility, mileage will be added, calculated at the current government rate.  

Board Training
Dogs enrolled in rrruff-RULES board training programs will be treated as part of the family. This allows for your dog to be inside the house in a family environment where proper house manners are not optional. (Crates are used only at night and during times when supervision is not possible) This allows for immediate intervention at the exact moment an undesirable behavior occurs. (This will include such things as picking up objects they shouldn't, potty training, stealing things off tables and counters, staying off of the furniture, jumping on guests, nuisance barking, chewing, mouthing, etc).  

Policies
Please know that we emphasize safety and comfort during the board training program.   

1. Any dog displaying aggressive tendencies toward either a family member or another canine will be asked to be picked up immediately.
2. All owners will be asked to sign a copy of our boarding contract. (click here to see the boarding contract)
3. All dogs over the age of six months must be neutered.
4. All dogs must be on heartworm as well as flea and tick prevention, in additional to being up to date on vaccinations. (click here to see boarding contract specifics)
5. All candidates must be crate trained. (i.e., comfortable with being in a crate overnight, without crying, barking, scratching, fussing etc. — dogs' age will be taken into considering)

Basic obedience program
This program is offered to all families whose dogs have had no formal training. This is a minimum three week on leash course and will cover the commands of;

	Free (translated into canine as 'play time')
	Recall (come)
	Sit
	Sit Stay
	Down
	Down Stay
	Heel
	Place (a designated area where the dog will go when company is over, or if you just need a break)
	Ringing Bells - for potty training

Intermediate obedience program
This program is available to owners who want the added freedom from a leash. (Please be apprised of your states leash laws). This is also a minimum three week course focusing on off leash work, while continuing the perfection of being a well mannered household companion. Eligibility requirements are that the dog can sustain one hour 'stay' w/distractions.

Shorter board training/refresher courses are an option for those who have participated in at least four private lessons, or have participated in our basic board training program.

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© 2006 rrufff RULES