Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect, what's it like working with us, you can find it here.
General
What Services do you offer?
Services can be found here.
You may also download the 2024 Do Better In-Home Dog Training Services.
What is a behavior consultant?
A behavioral consultant is a professional who specializes in assessing, diagnosing, and modifying dog behavior issues. These consultants typically work closely with dog guardians to address various behavioral problems exhibited by their pets.
Common issues may include aggression, fear, anxiety, excessive barking, house soiling, and other problematic behaviors. Canine behavioral consultants often have a background in animal behavior, psychology, or a related field, and they may hold certifications or credentials from recognized organizations. Their role involves conducting thorough behavior assessments, designing personalized behavior modification plans, and guiding owners through the training process. They may use positive reinforcement techniques, desensitization, counter-conditioning, and other methods to address and modify unwanted behaviors. In some cases, a canine behavioral consultant may collaborate with veterinarians to rule out any underlying medical causes for the behavior.
Overall, their goal is to improve the relationship between dogs and their people by addressing and resolving behavioral challenges.
Is a behavior consultant different from a dog trainer?
Yes, a behavior consultant and a dog trainer are distinct roles, although they may share some similarities in their work with dogs.
Dog Trainer:
- A dog trainer typically focuses on teaching dogs specific cues, and basic manners.
- Training often includes cues like sit, stay, come, and leash manners.
- Trainers use various positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desired behaviors.
Behavior Consultant:
- A behavior consultant specializes in addressing and modifying complex behavioral issues in dogs.
- They deal with more nuanced problems such as aggression, anxiety, fear, and other behavioral challenges.
- Consultants conduct in-depth assessments to understand the root causes of problematic behaviors.
- Behavior modification plans are personalized to address the specific needs and triggers affecting a dog's behavior.
- They often work with both the dog and the guardian to implement long-term solutions and improve the overall well-being of the dog.
While there is some overlap in the use of positive reinforcement techniques, a behavior consultant typically handles more severe or complex behavioral issues that may require a deeper understanding of canine behavior, psychology, and more specialized training methods. It's not uncommon for dog trainers to refer clients to behavior consultants when faced with challenging behavioral issues that extend beyond basic training.
Are you a certified trainer?
All Do Better Training services are overseen by Dr. Andy Salis, Certified Behavior Consultant and Certified Dog Trainer.
Dr. Andy holds a CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, CCDT, FFCP and SBA training certifications.
What's your service area?
Proudly serving Sugar Grove, Yorkville, Oswego, Aurora, Carol Stream, Montgomery, Plano, Big Rock, Waterman, DeKalb, Geneva, Batavia, St. Charles, and Naperville.
If you are outside of these areas we may still be able to help! Contact us for more information.
Additional travel fees may apply.
What training methods do you use?
Do Better Animal Training uses a LIMA approach to animal training and behavior modification plans and does not condone the use of punishment in lieu of other, more effective and humane strategies. All of our techniques are developed from peer-reviewed behavior science and we strive to stay current on the most effective, humane, and empowering training techniques so we can offer you and your animal the best in education, training, and care.
Does Training Method Matter?
The choice of training methods for dogs significantly impacts their well-being and the overall quality of the guardian-dog relationship. LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) training and traditional aversive training represent two distinct approaches.
LIMA training emphasizes positive reinforcement and minimizes the use of aversive techniques. By focusing on rewarding desired behaviors, dogs learn in a positive, stress-free environment, strengthening the bond between the guardian and the pet. Conversely, traditional aversive training relies on punishment and correction, potentially causing stress, fear, and, in some cases, exacerbating behavioral problems.
LIMA recognizes that dogs respond better to positive reinforcement, making the training process more enjoyable for both parties. This approach not only achieves desired behaviors but also promotes a trusting and cooperative relationship, fostering a dog's emotional well-being and creating a more harmonious living environment.
Do you guarantee results?
Guaranteeing specific results in dog training poses inherent challenges due to the diverse nature of canine behaviors, individual differences among dogs, and the various factors influencing their responses. Dogs, like humans, have unique personalities, temperaments, and learning styles, making it difficult to predict precise outcomes. External factors such as the dog's environment, past experiences, and the guardian's consistency in implementing training techniques also play crucial roles. Additionally, unforeseen health issues, stressors, or changes in circumstances can impact a dog's behavior. While reputable trainers can provide guidance, effective training is a collaborative effort between the trainer and the pet guardian, requiring ongoing commitment and patience. Rather than offering guarantees, ethical dog trainers focus on providing valuable tools, techniques, and support to empower clients in understanding and addressing their dog's behaviors, recognizing the dynamic and evolving nature of the training process.
Working with Do Better
In-Home Consult - What to Expect
When hiring a behavior consultant for an in-home training or consultation session, you can expect a personalized and thorough approach to address your dog's specific behavioral issues. Do Better trainers will begin by conducting a comprehensive assessment, observing the dog in its home environment to understand its behaviors, triggers, and interactions with family members. This in-depth analysis helps formulate a tailored behavior modification plan. Our trainers will work closely with you, discussing your concerns, lifestyle, and goals for the dog's behavior. Practical training exercises, positive reinforcement techniques, and strategies for managing and modifying problematic behaviors will be demonstrated and practiced during the session.
We will provide guidance on creating a positive and conducive home environment for ongoing training. Expect open communication, education about canine behavior, and a collaborative effort to empower you with the tools needed for long-term success in addressing your dog's behavior challenges.
We do typically expect dog guardians to be present and involved in the training process with most of our packages.
Our Homeschool Hounds program caters more to those busy pet parents that might not be able to be as present in training.
What to expect in a behavior modification
Success in behavior modification often requires a commitment from both the client and the dog, with the ultimate goal being a positive and lasting transformation in the dog's behavior and the overall well-being of the human-canine relationship.
The duration of behavior modification for dogs varies widely and is influenced by several factors. The complexity of the behavior issue, the dog's temperament, the client's consistency in implementing recommended strategies, and the presence of underlying factors all contribute to the length of the process. Simple behaviors may show improvement within a few weeks with consistent training. However, addressing more complex issues like fear, aggression, or severe anxiety can take several months or even longer. Behavioral modification is an ongoing process, and results may not be immediate. Patience, consistency, and a commitment to the training plan are crucial. Regular follow-up sessions with a behavior consultant, adjustments to the training approach as needed, and a supportive home environment contribute to the overall success of behavior modification.
Every dog is unique, and the timeline for behavior modification should be approached with flexibility, understanding that progress may take time.
How many sessions will I need
Each dog is different and each behavioral issue requires it's own attention. While we can't say how many sessions you'll need to arrive at your desired behavior we will do our best to be as up front and transparent with our analysis of your furry friend.
How much time does training take?
The timeline for training a dog varies widely and depends on several factors, including the dog's age, breed, individual temperament, and the specific behaviors targeted for training.
Basics such as sit, stay, and come may be learned relatively quickly, sometimes within a few weeks with consistent, positive reinforcement training. However, addressing more complex behaviors or overcoming certain issues, such as fear or aggression, may require more time and patience. It's essential to recognize that dog training is an ongoing process, and consistent reinforcement and practice are key.
Additionally, the owner's commitment, consistency in training methods, and the presence of external factors, such as the dog's past experiences or the training environment, all contribute to the overall timeline. Each dog is unique, and training should be approached with flexibility, understanding, and a focus on building a strong bond between the owner and their canine companion.
Do you offer board and trains?
At Do Better Training, we do not offer a traditional board and train program due to the lack of a physical facility. However, we offer an innovative alternative called Homeschool Hounds. This training solution is designed for busy pet parents who struggle with committing to regular training schedules. Over the course of 12 visits, a Do Better Trainer engages in one-on-one sessions with your dog while you attend to your daily responsibilities. The program includes a 90-minute initial consultation, eight 60-minute training sessions, and a final 90-minute session to showcase acquired skills. Detailed notes are shared each evening for your reference. Ideal for refining specific skills, addressing mild behavioral challenges, or socializing puppies, Homeschool Hounds provides a convenient and effective jumpstart for both pet parents and their furry companions.
Do you need to see the unwanted behavior to help?
Our goal at Do Better Training is to reduce or eliminate undesirable behaviors in your dog, not to encourage or provoke them. We do not want your dog to practice the unwanted behavior during our sessions. Typically, it is not necessary for us to witness the behavior in person. If there is a specific behavior we would like to observe, we will ask pet guardians to safely capture a video and share it with a Do Better trainer. This approach allows us to assess the behavior accurately and devise an effective behavior modification plan without putting your dog in a situation that may trigger or reinforce the undesired conduct. Our priority is the well-being of your pet, and we aim to create a positive and safe training environment throughout the process.
Payments
Payments are due before services are rendered.
We do allow customers to "pay as you go" for larger training packages, however payment must be received before a particular session can be scheduled.
Refund / Cancellations
Cancellations & Rescheduling: If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment please let us know 24 hours in advance and we will be happy to refund / reschedule your appointment.
At any point, for any reason during a training plan a customer wants or needs to cancel they will be entitled to a refund for services not rendered.
Example: You are 2 training sessions into a 5 training session package and you wish to cancel, you are owed a refund of 3 training sessions.
Due to the nature of dog training, we do not offer refunds for services rendered.
If you are not present when your trainer arrives your training session will be considered completed and you will not be eligible for a refund.
The Do Better Philosophy
LIMA Approach
LIMA stands for "Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive," representing a commitment to utilizing training techniques that prioritize the well-being and emotional welfare of your pet. LIMA training focuses on achieving desired behaviors through positive reinforcement and minimizing the use of aversive methods. This approach ensures that our training plans are not only effective but also ethical and humane. We believe in empowering both pets and their guardians, fostering a positive relationship through scientifically-supported, compassionate training practices.
Scientifically Based Techniques
At Do Better Animal Training, our commitment to ethical, humane, and scientifically-supported training methodology is unwavering. We adhere to a LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) approach in both animal training and behavior modification plans. Our philosophy strongly rejects the use of punishment in favor of more effective and compassionate strategies. All of our techniques are rooted in peer-reviewed behavior science, ensuring that our methods are not only humane but also based on rigorous scientific principles. We continually strive to stay abreast of the latest advancements in animal behavior science, allowing us to offer you and your animal companions the very best in education, training, and care. Our goal is to provide a positive, empowering, and respectful experience for both you and your beloved pets throughout the training process.