Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Throughout the years, I am often asked the same questions, so I decided to create this FAQ's page, hoping that you will find it helpful in getting your questions answered in just one convenient place:
(Please notice I have added my favorite training equipment and enrichment toys further below).
(Please notice I have added my favorite training equipment and enrichment toys further below).
What services does Blue Creek Canine offer?
We offer quite the variety: Group classes , Private Training and In-home Consultations , Puppy Play groups on Sunday mornings for puppies 10 -20 weeks old, Events & Workshops, Online Self study courses and recorded webinars and Phone and Video consultations. If you are in doubt of which service you are in need of, please don't hesitate to contact Blue Creek Canine via email, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Do you offer Service Dog and /or Therapy Dog training?
Yes and no, meaning that I have helped several Service dog teams getting a stronger foundation and public access skills, but I do not train specific task related behaviors, especially not any type of medical alert.
In regards to anyone interested in becoming a certified Therapy Dog team, I have helped several teams getting ready for their Therapy Dog certification ( often through my Canine Good Citizen's class or with private training ). But for their actual certification test, I recommend using Pet Partners, and their local evaluators. They do offer the certification test a few times a year. If interested in learning more, I suggest you contact Lyn directly [email protected]
In regards to anyone interested in becoming a certified Therapy Dog team, I have helped several teams getting ready for their Therapy Dog certification ( often through my Canine Good Citizen's class or with private training ). But for their actual certification test, I recommend using Pet Partners, and their local evaluators. They do offer the certification test a few times a year. If interested in learning more, I suggest you contact Lyn directly [email protected]
What type of training techniques do you use?
At Blue Creek Canine we only use Positive Reinforcement Training Techniques including marker training, meaning we use a marker ( a clicker or a verbal marker word "yes") to help create efficient communication between dog and handler, while building a stronger relationship. Our focus is to help create a safe space for both dog and handler to learn and to work together.
Do I pay upfront for my training sessions?
Yes. Unless you have made other arrangements with your trainer, we do usually require full pay upfront for the Group Classes. Or, if you are doing a Private Training Package, full pay is required at your first training session. Blue Creek Canine do accept cash, check, Venmo or you can request to receive an invoice via text, and pay for your class or program online.
How often do we meet for the training sessions and how long are the sessions?
Each group class session is an hour long and we meet at the same time every week. In regards to the private training sessions, you schedule your sessions with your trainer, so you can plan them according to your schedule. The private sessions are each between 50-60 minutes, except for the first sessions, which is 90 minutes.
What is your cancellation policy?
When you have a set appointment, please know that this is a specific time set a side for just you and your dog.
If you cancel your private training session within 6 hours of the set appointment, there will be a $20 late cancellation fee.
If you cancel within only 3 hours of your scheduled private session, or if you do not contact Blue Creek Canine to cancel or reschedule, and do not show up for your session, there will be a $55 no-show fee. Or, if you have bought a training package, one of your sessions will be deducted.
We do understand that sometimes life just happens, and will in some circumstances waive these fees.
I you miss your group class session, we are not able to reschedule that session for you, but all group classes have an online curriculum, to help you stay on track with home work, and ensure that you don't fall too far behind, when missing session(s).
If you cancel your private training session within 6 hours of the set appointment, there will be a $20 late cancellation fee.
If you cancel within only 3 hours of your scheduled private session, or if you do not contact Blue Creek Canine to cancel or reschedule, and do not show up for your session, there will be a $55 no-show fee. Or, if you have bought a training package, one of your sessions will be deducted.
We do understand that sometimes life just happens, and will in some circumstances waive these fees.
I you miss your group class session, we are not able to reschedule that session for you, but all group classes have an online curriculum, to help you stay on track with home work, and ensure that you don't fall too far behind, when missing session(s).
What should I bring for my training sessions?
Bring a mat/towel/blanket for your dog to settle on, their favorite toy ( only for private sessions), and vide variety of soft, yummy treats of different value to the dog, and a bone/bully stick or a stuffed KONG for your dog to settle with ( for group classes). We will provide the water and the clicker , if you decide to work with the clicker as your marker.
Also see the group class rules here
Also see the group class rules here
What is your favorite training equipment?
Please find a list below of my favorite equipment that I use daily with my dogs:
This Petsafe Treat Pouch is my all time favorite. It has dividers for the treats and I can easily fit my whole hand into it, when grabbing a treat. It easily snaps tightly shut, and when closed, it sits close to my body, so it doesn't bother me, when I am moving around. It is water proof, is super durable and has room for keys, clicker and more.
You can see more here (link to Amazon) : https://amzn.to/3XJYggH |
There is a gazillion harnesses to choose from and they all have different fits. This Ruffwear Front Range harness is my favorite, and I have one for both my dogs. I love that it is lightweight, while still being sturdy. Furthermore it is padded and doesn't sit and bother my dogs' armpits when walking. You can attach your leash to either in front or on the back, whatever works best for you and your dog. The Y-design allow my dogs' shoulders to move freely (other harnesses can be restrictive) and I can easily adjust the straps. You will of course need to chose, whichever harness works best for your dog, but this brand and design in my favorite one. Link : https://amzn.to/3rgkqLt
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When it comes to finding the right leash, it can be quite confusing due to the amount of leash options out there. I always go for a minimum 6' leash, soft handle, and with no bungee part in the leash, as it delays my communication to the dog by a few seconds.
I really like a soft leather leash, but have also leashes made from nylon and biothane. I will leave it up to you, if you prefer an extra handle on the leash, extra padding in the handle, or if it is reflective. Just make sure it has a strong carabiner or metal clasp (no clip leads please), and it is not too heavy for your smaller dogs. I have added a few suggestions - see links: Leather leash , Fabric, or Biothane |
This long dog training line is a mandatory equipment in my dog training curriculum. I like to buy the 30' line ( you can choose different lengths), and then I make a knot every 5 feet, so I can better hold on to the line when walking my dogs. I use it when walking my dogs out in open fields or grassy area, so I can give them the freedom to sniff their little hearts out ( sniffing is super healthy for your dog and it really makes them tired!), while still being attached to me and safe. Furthermore, I use it for teaching and practice recall in new areas.
So, whether you have a puppy, a teenager or more mature dog, having at least one long line is a mandatory equipment in my book. Link: https://amzn.to/3D4uUAd |
If you prefer a long line that you can easily wash/wipe clean , look into this Biothane line. You can't make knots on it, but that is not really needed, as the Biothane material makes it easier to hold on to. You can choose from different lengths and thickness, so make sure to choose one that fits the size of your dog. Link: amzn.to/3ru5R7l It is extremely helpful having an Exercise (x)- Pen in your house, especially with a puppy or newly adopted dog. You can use it to block off a section of your house, or simply as a "holding" pen, thus managing your dog, when you are not able to actively supervise and ensure that he/she will not be able to get access to places or items that are off limit.
link: https://amzn.to/3QP6liP "IN TRAINING, ignore!" leash wrap. You can choose from several different options: "Anxious dog- need space", "Please ask before petting me", and much more. These leash wraps are a great way to help give the people you encounter in public, a heads up on what to expect. And if you have a hard time saying no to people, when they ask to pet your dog, one of these leash wraps can be very helpful.
Link: https://amzn.to/45AQqJe |
What is your favorite enrichment toys ?
Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercises, and I incorporate mental stimulation to my dog's schedule daily through enrichment activities ( to learn more about the importance of adding enrichment activities to your dog's daily schedule and how easy it is, read my blog post here ). Some of my favorite toys that are suitable for all ages, including puppies and older dogs are listed below. These are great sturdy toys, that your dog can enjoy daily.
If you are interested in learning more about how to use items that you have in your home, instead of having to continue buying new enrichment toys, please visit my online store for my Online Enrichment Self-study course.
If you are interested in learning more about how to use items that you have in your home, instead of having to continue buying new enrichment toys, please visit my online store for my Online Enrichment Self-study course.
The KONG Wobbler is one of my favorite beginner/novice enrichment toys for dogs ( just ask my dog Murphy - this is his favorite enrichment toy!). It is durable and very sturdy, and is easy to clean. I use it outside as well as inside. And the best part: It doesn't get stuck under the couch ( well, at least not the extra large size ). For dogs that likes to use their paws and/or nose, they will enjoy this toy. Simply put a portion of their kibble in it and watch your dog push it around to get the food out. Link: https://amzn.to/3NHdMWk |
The Classic KONG rubber toy, is another one of my favorite beginner/novice enrichment toys for dogs and a must have for puppies. It is durable and can be used for both chewing and fetching, but more importantly, I like to stuff it with my dog's food and a bit of sticky peanut butter to encourage a bit more work. Bonus: For an added challenge, I do like to add plain yogurt and freeze it for 4-6 hours before giving to my dog or puppy. This encourages your puppy to lay down calmly, while licking all the stuff out. So a great toys to use when you have visitors over as it helps encourage calm behavior. And it can be quite the work out, so often your puppy is tired afterwards. Plus, it is dishwasher safe for easy clean up.
Link: https://amzn.to/3PEDKfE |
This Bob-a-lot is another one of Murphy's favorite toys, as he really enjoys pushing it around with his nose. You can increase the difficulty level on this toy, by adjusting the size of the opening. Link: https://amzn.to/3XDI6pi |