Which of Your Services is Right for Me?
(and Other Common Questions)
Which of your services is right for me?
Since every dog and owner are unique, with their own set of struggles, strengths, and expectations, please browse our "Training Services" to determine which class is right for you. If you are still unsure, don't hesitate to contact us, we'd be happy to find the right fit for you and your dog.
In general, if you are getting ready to bring a new puppy into your home or just welcomed one (2-6 months), our Puppy Foundations is the best place to start. If you have a specific single issue you want to address such as crate training, jumping, leash pulling, coming when called, etc the 3 session Single Issue package would be your go to. Dogs with more than one of the struggles mentioned above or more complicated behavioral issues like aggression, reactivity, separation anxiety, resource guarding, fear/anxiety, noise or handling sensitivities would need our 6 session Behavior Modification Package. If you aren't ready to commit to a multi-session package, you can start with a comprehensive 60-90 minute Single Consultation.
We also provide Service Dog Training/Evaluations and as an AKC Evaluator we also offer Canine Good Citizen and Trick Dog Training and/or Testing.
What is your approach to dog training?
Here at Ahead of The Game, we are Positive Reinforcement, Games-Based Concept Trainers. We are Force Free, Fear Free trainers and apply the most up-to-date science based methods. You can learn more about our approach to training on "Our Training Ethos" page.
Is my pet too old to be trained?
The old saying "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" is a myth. We happily work with dogs of any age, any breed. Some older dogs require special considerations for health reasons, but we take that all into account when we come up with your training "Game Plan"
What is Your Service Area for Private In Home Sessions?
We are located in Forsyth County, GA and service the North Georgia area. Our Private Training Package fees include a 30 minute travel radius from our location (30028 zip code), which generally includes Forsyth County, North Fulton County, and parts of Cherokee County, Dawson County, and Hall County. We are happy to provide training outside this service area, however, travel fees will apply.
What is Concept Training?
Concept Training is doggy neuroscience that goes beyond basic obedience/trick training like "sit", "down", "stay". Sure we love to train behaviors, but simply training these do not prepare your dog for real-life! To prepare our dogs for real-life results, we have to enhance their personalities and shape their brains. A dog's brain is made up of building blocks of skills, or what we call concepts, such as focus, impulse control, disengagement, optimism, etc. How competent they are at the different concepts influence the choices they make in their day to day life. These choices combine to make up your dog's individual personality. The great news is these concepts are dynamic, and we can mold and enhance your dog's personality by strengthening these concepts individually through games based concept training. You can learn all about our concepts on our "Concepts 101" page.
I noticed CPDT-KA after your name, what does that mean?
CPDT-KA stands for Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed. CPDT-KA Certification through the CCPDT (Certifying Council of Professional Dog Trainers) provides an an independent scientifically valid measure of a trainer’s understanding of all aspects of dog training to include learning theory, ethology, instructional skills, equipment, and husbandry. Certificants have logged over 300 hours of direct, hands on dog training experience, and have passed a rigorous 3 hour written exam that focuses on the science of dog behavior and the application of training techniques. To ensure CPDT-KA certificants apply the most current science based techniques, they are required to engage in ongoing continuing education and professional development. Additionally, certificants must adhere to a professional code of ethics and standards of practice.
What if my dog isn't comfortable around other dogs or people?
At ATG we recognize that going to a group class can be stressful for some dogs (and their owners). That's why we offer private in-person consultations and packages. For the majority of our clients, the behavior struggles are in their home or their environment, so we tailor our training and location to your dogs needs. We even offer live on-line training if that is the best fit for your dog.
While we are confident you and your dog will LOVE our positive fun atmosphere and effective training solutions, we want everyone to be satisfied with their experience. So, if you feel we aren't the right fit for you, we will refund your money in accordance with our refund policy.