Common questions

What dog training services do you offer?

We offer premium board and train programs for both basic and advanced obedience. We will soon offer extended board and train programs for behavior modification needs, such as reactivity and aggression. For all graduates of any board and train program, we also offer private lessons and follow-up sessions either at our facility or at your residence.

Do you train aggressive dogs?

Not yet — but it is one of our goals. We are currently in the planning stages of building out kennels specifically designed to handle those cases appropriately. Helping families with aggressive dogs is something our hearts go out to, as getting the right help can prevent a good dog from being put down. We hope to be able to offer this service as soon as possible.

Do you teach potty training?

Yes, and it is included at no extra charge in every program. Since your dog lives in our home with our family, things like potty training, leash manners, barking, door crashing, and chewing are addressed as a matter of course — we simply do not want to live with a dog that does not know those things, so they are taken care of in every package.

Why do I get a follow-up lesson after graduation?

Three weeks is more than enough time to instill the expectations needed for great obedience. The challenge is in how dogs learn — they take mental snapshots of how to behave in specific situations. When something about that picture changes — a new home, a new baby, a new job that changes the daily routine — it can sometimes cause confusion and a temporary regression in their obedience. For this reason we cannot offer any guarantees on long-term effectiveness (and frankly, neither can any other trainer). But at Pro 36 we are committed to helping you build a lasting, positive relationship with your dog. If something changes down the road, reach out and we will help you work through it.

How do I sign up?

At this time we do not offer online signups. This is intentional — we want to have a personal relationship with each client before they enroll. Signing up is done by Justin after your consultation, which you can schedule via phone, email, or through the booking link on this website.

How does the schedule work?

Check-ins and check-outs are generally done on weekends to accommodate your schedule. The consultation (if not done separately) and an exit lesson upon graduation are both included. You will receive weekly updates throughout, and for our extended programs you will be invited in for a private lesson mid-program so you can learn alongside your dog.

When can I schedule training?

Our available dates are posted on the booking page of this website. If there is a date that works for you, call or email and we will get you booked for the appropriate program.

What do I need to provide at check-in?

We will need your dog’s shot records, a completed questionnaire (sent to you after your consultation), and a 50% deposit of the total program fee. At check-in, please also bring enough food for the full duration of your dog’s stay along with a list of any food allergies — we use a lot of treats in training and want to keep everything safe.

Who trains my dog?

Justin Schaefer is our lead and only trainer. Your dog will work exclusively with him at all times. He is a graduate of Tarheel Canine Training Inc. in North Carolina — a globally renowned police and service dog training academy.

What training method do you use?

We believe in two core truths about training. First, a balanced approach using all forms of communication works best — this includes both treats and corrections when necessary. Second, every dog and owner team is unique, and training may look different from one client to another. In general, we use treats to teach the dog the new expectation. Then we slowly wean them off the treat and transition to a correction that shows them the behavior is now required, not just rewarded.

Do you use training collars?

Yes, and we believe in them strongly. Our aim with any correction tool — whether a leash or a collar — is always to use the minimum amount of force necessary to communicate effectively with the dog. We have a range of collars we use depending on what the dog needs. We typically start with a slip leash, and only promote to a Starmark collar or prong collar if needed. We will walk through all of this in your consultation so you understand exactly what we use and why. We believe this is a far more humane way to communicate with a dog than alternatives that apply more force because the right tool wasn’t used.

Do you use eCollars?

Yes — in our Advanced program. We have partnered with eCollar Technologies because we firmly believe in the quality of their products. A premium eCollar from eCollar Technologies is included in the Advanced program package. As with all correction tools, our goal is to use the minimum effective level of stimulation to communicate clearly. A light tap from a well-fitted eCollar is far less disruptive and more humane than alternatives in many situations.

Will my dog keep their personality and be happy?

Absolutely — your dog will be happy, and their personality may shift some, but not in a negative way. You will likely find them more confident. They know the rules, they know how to succeed within them, and they can relax because of it. Dogs thrive with clearly defined expectations, much like they would experience in a natural pack structure. We like to think we are helping bring out the best version of your dog — which makes for a happier family and a happier dog.

Does my dog have to be spayed or neutered?

Absolutely not. We will ask during the consultation whether your dog is intact so we can plan training and socialization accordingly. We actually recommend against spaying or neutering until at least 8 months of age — there are critical stages of hormonal development that can be negatively impacted if a dog is altered too early.