FAQs
What kind of training do you do?
How long have you been in business?
How old does my dog need to be to start classes?
I have an older dog. Is it too late to start training?
When are private lessons offered?
Do you offer classes for more advanced dogs?
I have some specific concerns with my dog that I'm not sure will be addressed in class. Do you offer private lessons?
My dog doesn't have any problems, why should I take her to class?
Q. What kind of training do you do?
A. SmartDog Dog Training focuses on preventing and treating behavior problems in dog. We train dogs to behave well in the house with their family and in public, especially around other people and other dogs. We focus on training "manners" (such as not jumping) and basic commands. If your dog already has problems that you'd like to address, we will set up a training program to target those specfic behaviors. The methods used in training and behavior modification are positive technique that are based on animal learning theory and have proven to be effective both in research and in practice. SmartDog offers private lessons and behavior consultations. We no longer offer group classes. For group classes in the Saratoga area, we recommend Chelsea Koslow at The Complete Canine. More on SmartDog Dog Training top of page
Q. How long have you been in business?
A. SmartDog Dog Training started offering private lessons in November 2001. In January 2002, we started teaching two classes a week. Over the next several years we expanded and at one time offered up to nine classes per week. In 2008, Kristina Gage, the owner and head trainer began graduate school to obtain a Ph.D. in biopsychology with an emphasis in animal behavior. In keeping with her new focus on behavior, SmartDog stopped offering group classes and now focuses on private lessons for preventing and treating behavior problems. For more information on our trainer's background before opening SmartDog Dog Training, please click here. top of page
A. Information on Kristina's (owner and head trainer) background and training can be found here. top of page
Q. How old does my dog need to be to start training?
A. Puppies are eligible to begin training as early as 8 weeks. In fact, it's best to start them at this age when they are still in their prime period for socialization and before they have developed bad habits. It always harder to treat a problem than it is to prevent one!top of page
Q. I have an older dog. Is it too late to start training?
A. Definately not! Older dogs may have some ingrained habits you have to overcome, but they also have a longer attention span and are generally calmer than a puppy or adolescent dog. top of page
Q. How long are the training sessions?
A. We offer a variety of different training packages, each varies in length depending on the issues you'd like to address. Each individual training session is about an hour. You may contact our office for more information. top of page
Q. When are private lessons offered?
A. Currently private lessons are offered on weekday evenings and Sunday mornings. We also have some openings available during the day on weekdays. Please call or e-mail us to set up a specific appointment time. top of page
Q. Do you offer training for more advanced dogs?
A. We can put together a training package for a dog that has had prior training. Call our office and we will put together a custom package that fits the specific needs of you and your dog. top of page
Q. I have some specific concerns with my dog that I'm not sure will be addressed in class. Do you offer private lessons?
A. Yes! You may set up a private lesson or behavior consultation with our trainer if you have a specific training or behavioral problem you would like to have addressed. Please contact our office to set up an appointment. top of page
Q. My dog doesn't have any problems, why should start training her now?
A. The best time to start training your dog is before you have problems! It is much easier to prevent problems than it is to fix them. In addition, training your dog can be fun for both you and the dog. It strengthens the bond between you and your dog and gives your dog a chance to use her brain. Finally, having a well trained dog allows you to bring your companion with you without worrying about how she will behave. top of page
