Question 1

At what age should I start my puppy in training classes?

Accepted Answer

Ideally we start puppies as young as 9 weeks in the Puppy Play and Train, socialization class.  This class is ONLY for puppies between 8-16 weeks of age.  It is recommended but not required for the Level 1 - Puppy Kindergarten class which is for all puppies between 10 weeks and 6 months of age.

Question 2

What classes do you offer and how do I register?

Accepted Answer

Please see the class selector button on our Services page.

Question 3

My puppy is over 6 months but hasn't had any formal training, what class should I sign up for?"

Accepted Answer

For dogs over 6 months of age, with no prior training, we have the Level 1 - Beginner Obedience class.

If your dog has difficulty in new situations, around other dogs or people, I recommend private lessons, with one of our trainers. You can find their names and contact information on the 'About Us' page.

If your dog is having behavioral issues (barking/lunging, fearfulness, aggression, separation issues) please contact me for a referral to a qualified trainer in your area, or check out the trainers listed on www.chooseleap.org for trainers who specialize in your dog's particular issue.  All LEAP trainers are credentialed and use only positive methods when training.

Question 4

Do you offer private training for behavior issues?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some of our trainers do offer private training for dogs with behavior issues, you can check them out and get their contact information on the About Us page of the web site.  You can also look for qualified trainers on www.chooseleap.org a  listing of Credentialed, evidence based trainers in MA.

Question 5

How do I know which class is the right fit for my dog or puppy?

Accepted Answer

Start with our class selector on the Services page. It will help you choose based on your dog’s age, training history, and goals. If you’re still unsure, reach out and we’ll help point you in the right direction — because the right starting point makes training a lot easier for both of you.

Question 6

What training methods do you use?

Accepted Answer

We use only positive, evidence-based training methods that are designed to be effective and fun for you and your dog. Our goal is to help build good habits without relying on fear, force or intimidation. Training should feel clear, kind, and doable — not stressful.

Question 7

What should I bring to my first class?

Accepted Answer

In most classes, you’ll want to bring plenty of small, tasty treats, a regular leash, and a standard collar or harness that fits well. A hungry dog usually learns faster, so try to skip a big meal right before class. If you’ve signed up for a specific class, check the email we sent when you signed up for class for specifics.

Question 8

Do you offer online class materials and homework for each class?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have online learning materials including a 100 page manual, homework for each week of your class, on line video tutorials to remind you of what you did in class and training tips. It’s a great way to keep the training going at home — which is where the real progress happens!

Question 9

How long will it take to see progress with my dog?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your dog, the behavior you’re working on, and how consistently you practice. Some dogs pick things up quickly, while others need more repetition. The good news? With short, regular practice at home, most families start seeing changes pretty quickly.

Question 10

How do I pay for a class?

Accepted Answer

We handle payments offline, so you won’t complete checkout online. After you choose a class, we’ll send the next steps for payment and registration. If anything is unclear, just reach out and we’ll help you through it.

Question 11

What if I miss a class?

Accepted Answer

Life happens. If you need to miss a session, contact us as soon as you can and we’ll help you figure out the best next step. Your online class materials can also help you stay caught up between lessons, but we also offer previously recorded classes to watch as a makeup and for some classes, we can Zoom you into the class as it's happening!

Question 12

What is included when I sign up for a class?

Accepted Answer

You get more than just the in-person lesson. Most classes include weekly homework, a training manual, video tutorials, and training tips so you can keep practicing at home. That’s where the real progress happens.

Question 13

How big are your classes?

Accepted Answer

We keep our groups small so everyone gets individual attention. For most classes this means no more than 6 dogs, many classes have only 5 dogs per class.

Question 14

Are your classes in person, online, or both?

Accepted Answer

Our core classes are in person, with online learning materials to support you between sessions. So you get hands-on coaching in class and extra help at home — which is where the real progress happens, right?   That said, if you miss a class, we do offer previously recorded classes in addition to our on line homework and video tutorials so you can keep up!

PROPER PAWS DOG TRAINING

Positive, evidence based training for the life of your dog

Frequently asked questions