Frequently Asked Questions

How do I housebreak my puppy?

• This is perhaps the #1 question owners ask us. Because of this, we have dedicated a whole page on this subject. Please visit - Housebreaking - 101. However, every situation is different, so if you are in San Diego County, please feel free to give us a call. We can set-up a single visit to help you with this issue, or we can design a whole training program for you and your family.

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My dog has separation anxiety - what can I do?

• Separation Anxiety can be the most difficult behavior issue that owners face. This is because it is deeply rooted in the psychology of your canine. We have prepared two articles that can help you understand the disease itself. However, obedience training is wonderful 'therapy" that we find can actually help with the symptoms. CSA is not something that can be eliminated , but it can be managed. Please read:

How Dogs Learn

Help for Separation Anxiety

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I am looking for a dog trainer; tell me about your methods and philosophy?

• On this subject too we have written an article. We know that there are a lot of dog trainers in our area to choose from. We also know that many visitors to our site are not in San Diego County. Experience is key. Methods and philosophy are grey areas because they are subjective.  And, you as the owner of your dog must have the right to choose what you feel most comfortable with. We say this: It is your decision, you must feel right about the company, the trainer and the program.  Please read:

Choosing the Right Trainer

About Us

Meet Our Team

Our Programs

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Can you help me with my aggressive dog?

• Unfortunately, this question has become more commonplace. The simple answer is yes (we will do our best.) This is very dependant upon the type and level of aggression. We are referred to frequently by owners, vets and other dog trainers to deal with aggression issues so we feel confident that we are going to have the answers you need. Many trainers are simply not equipped to deal with aggression issues. A paid evaluation is required to be better able to answer your questions. Please send us an information request and we will contact you ASAP. (FYI - true aggression, whether people or dog aggression, cannot be resolved utilizing food or electronic shock training methods)

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Can you help me with excessive barking?

• Yes. There are many reasons why dogs bark excessively. We can never stop dogs from barking but we can help owners learn to control their dogs barking and understand what triggers or stimulates their dogs need to excessively bark. We sell products that can help but the best solution is to schedule us for a Single Session so that we can come into your dogs environment and supply you with the information and tools specific to your individual needs.

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What is the difference between group and private training ?

• The difference is night and day. Group is very generic and focuses on each command rather than the individual dog and owner. Although our classes are very thorough, and our class sizes are small,  they really work best for owners who have previously owned dogs and who are willing to practice on their own every day. Private training programs are more focused, more customized and more comprehensive. Plus, with private training, there is access to group classes which is part of each in-home package.

What is the difference between working with John or one of his other trainers?

• The obvious difference is John's experience. However, all of John's trainers have been thoroughly trained by John and his senior trainers. The methods and philosophies they use are based upon John's. All have had the benefit of John's many years in the field of dog training and behavior modification. Our trainers have a huge following - and for good reason; they are excellent and love what they do.

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I just brought a new dog home and my older dog does not seem to like him?

• Canines typically take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks to adjust to changes in their environment. While some dogs can make adjustments much more quickly, there will be those dogs that need more time to accept a new pack member into their home. Age and breed can sometimes be a determining factor.

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Should my whole family be involved in every training session?

• Sometimes it is actually best to have one or two adult primary member involved in the training process. This helps to lay down the best foundation for training. However, we always encourage all members of the household to be involved in the long-run. But, to have one or two members focused on the training process for the first few weeks always works best in the initial training process. 

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Is my dog too young or too old to train?

• The best time to train your new pup is when you first bring it home. Not only  can we help you with the transition, we can help you avoid common mistakes. And, remember the old adage, "you can't teach an old dog new tricks"; well, let' s just say that John learns something new about dogs every day. So, if he can learn .. so can your dog!

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