1. What tools are used in the Foundation Program? 

The Foundation Program is built around prong collar work (we like to use Herm Sprenger collars), so a prong collar is crucial to the training. The other tool used is a 4-foot nylon leash – I also suggest a crate for your dog. 

 

2. Is E-Collar Training covered in the Foundation Program?

BooDogs has an E-Collar Training Program that can be layered on top of the Foundation Program.

 

3. Can I call and ask questions if I need help or get stuck? 

Yes! Please get in touch with us to set up a phone or video consultation.

 

4. Does the Foundation Program use treats in the training? 

The training approach is relationship-based. Boo believes it's all about the relationship between the dog, the trainer, and the owner. Treat training tends to cause dogs to be overly excited, which makes it harder for them to train. Treats have their place in specific training, but we like to keep things focused for the family dog, and dogs can't focus or think when they get overly excited.  Technically, if the treats work, I use them. If they are too much, then I don't.

 

5. Why do you use prong collars?

We use prong collars because they are the best tool for connecting, communicating, and creating a harmonious relationship with the least amount of physical stress to the dog and owner. Most tools tend only to mask or manage the behavior. At the same time, the prong collar allows us to break through and effortlessly communicate, creating a vastly different state of mind and a highly responsive dog. While prong collars tend to look scary, when used correctly, they have been proven to be the least physically taxing, most humane, and one of the safest tools available for communicating, even with small dogs. 

 

6. What is covered in the Foundation Program?

This is basic training. The Foundation Program covers Tools, Place, Sit, Down, Walk, Crate, Recall, and Waiting for Food. We also discuss our philosophy behind the training and why working with your dog will help the brain relax and calm the mind.

 

7. I’m not in Los Angeles – can I work with Boo one-on-one?

Yes! Please visit www.boodogstraining.com for services and rates. We work with people all over the country over the phone or video. Just contact us!

 

8. My dog might be beyond help!

Contact us and let us know what’s going on. We are here to help if we can – there is always an answer!  We have training videos and can get you started training your dog.  If your dog is aggressive or has bitten dogs or people, then work on muzzle training the dog for safety. Then I can come over and start helping you and your dog. 

 

9. Do you have any recommendations for balanced trainers in my area?

Possibly! First, please go here: http://www.canineprofessionals.com/find-a-professional and search your zip code. If you are still having trouble, contact us, and we will try to help!

 

10. I have tried other trainers and methods before and didn’t get the results I desired – What makes your program and approach different and more effective?

Unlike other training approaches that only focus on developing rehearsed behaviors, bribing with treats, or merely managing or covering up the problem, we have developed a unique approach that fundamentally changes the dog’s state of mind. Once we address the dog’s state of mind, the sky’s the limit for what we can create. By cultivating new habits, teaching the dog to make better choices, training calmness instead of excitability, and employing our unique duration work, we consistently succeed with dogs that others cannot help. 

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11. I can’t afford a program, but I’m in a bad situation with my dog – what can I do?

In special cases, we can sometimes arrange a payment plan—please contact us for details. If this is still not feasible, we have free training videos and advice on our Facebook page and YouTube channel, or we can point you to other videos with similar balanced training.

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