FAQ
Straight answers
The questions owners ask us most, answered in our own words.
General
What age should I start training my dog?
Training can start as early as 8 weeks old. With puppies, we focus on engagement, confidence, structure, boundaries, and developing good habits early.
Do you work with all breeds?
Yes. We work with dogs of different breeds, sizes, ages, and temperaments. Every dog is different, so training is structured around the individual dog and owner’s goals.
What training programs do you offer?
We offer Puppy Training, Private Lessons, Basic Obedience, Intermediate Obedience, Advanced / Off-Leash Training, E-Collar Training, Board & Train Programs, and Behavior Modification.
How do I know which program my dog needs?
An evaluation is required before recommending a training program. We evaluate your dog’s age, temperament, current obedience, behavior, previous training, and your goals as the owner. From there, we’ll recommend the program that makes the most sense for you and your dog.
How much does training cost?
Training prices are provided following your dog’s evaluation. Every dog comes to us at a different starting point, so we evaluate the dog first and build our recommendation around their individual needs, behavior, current training level, and your goals.
Evaluations
Why is an evaluation required?
We want to see the dog we’re actually going to be working with. Two dogs of the same breed and age can have completely different temperaments, obedience levels, behaviors, and training needs. An evaluation allows us to recommend the appropriate program instead of guessing over the phone or through social media.
How much is an evaluation?
Evaluations are typically $100. The evaluation gives us an opportunity to assess your dog, understand your concerns and goals, and determine which training program would be the best fit.
How long is an evaluation?
Most evaluations take approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on the dog and the concerns being addressed.
What happens during the evaluation?
We’ll meet you and your dog, discuss your concerns and goals, and assess your dog’s current behavior and obedience. We may look at engagement, leash handling, basic commands, impulse control, confidence, reactivity, response around distractions, and overall temperament. After the evaluation, we’ll explain what we observed, what we recommend working on, the appropriate training program, and the cost of that program.
What should I bring?
Please bring your dog on a secure leash and collar along with any training equipment you’re currently using. If your dog has a history of aggression, biting, or severe reactivity, please let us know before arriving so we can prepare appropriately.
Training
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes. Private lessons allow owners to be directly involved throughout the training process. We’re not only teaching your dog, we’re teaching you how to communicate with and handle your dog effectively.
Do you offer Board & Train?
Yes. Board & Train provides a more immersive and structured training environment with consistent daily training. Program length and training goals are determined following an evaluation.
What commands can my dog learn?
Depending on the program, training may include sit, down, place, stay, recall/come, heel, leash manners, door manners, impulse control, duration, distance, and off-leash obedience.
Do you use e-collars?
Yes, when appropriate for the individual dog and training goals. We teach the e-collar as a communication tool and educate owners on proper handling, timing, levels, and responsible use.
Do you work with reactive or aggressive dogs?
Yes, depending on the severity and circumstances. Behavioral cases require an evaluation so we can assess the dog and determine whether we’re the appropriate fit.
Can you help with pulling, jumping, barking, or not listening?
Yes. These are common issues we address through obedience, structure, communication, boundaries, and accountability.
Can my dog eventually become off-leash trained?
Many dogs can progress toward off-leash reliability. Off-leash freedom is earned through a strong obedience foundation, reliable recall, engagement, impulse control, distance work, and proofing around real-world distractions.
Results and owner responsibility
Will my dog be completely trained after the program?
Training is a process, not a finish line. Our job is to build the foundation, teach your dog what is expected, and give you the knowledge and tools necessary to maintain those behaviors at home.
Do I have to practice between lessons?
Absolutely. Owner participation is a major part of our programs. Consistency between sessions is what turns something your dog understands during training into reliable everyday behavior.
Do you guarantee results?
Every dog is an individual. Genetics, temperament, environment, previous experiences, owner consistency, and lifestyle can all influence behavior. We provide professional training, clear communication, owner education, and a structured training plan designed around your dog’s individual needs.
Getting started
How do I get started?
The first step is scheduling your Apex Dog Training Evaluation. We’ll meet your dog, identify where you currently are, discuss where you want to be, and recommend the training path that makes the most sense for you and your dog.
Train the dog. Educate the owner. Build a lifestyle.
Still have a question?
Ask us directly. We would rather answer honestly before you book than leave you guessing.
Ready to start with your dog?
Tell us about your dog and your goals. The first consultation is free, by phone or online. The in-person evaluation comes after it.