FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What training methods does Paws At Play use?

Paws At Play uses positive, reward-based training methods throughout our training programs.

We focus on reinforcing desired behaviors, providing clear communication, preventing unwanted behaviors from being repeatedly practiced, and progressively increasing difficulty as dogs become successful.

We do not use e-collars or prong collars in our training programs.

Does my puppy really have the opportunity to earn AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy®?

Yes.

Our Puppy Preschool incorporates the S.T.A.R. Puppy skills and is taught with an AKC Approved CGC Evaluator. Eligible puppies have the opportunity to complete the official S.T.A.R. Puppy test at graduation.

AKC requires the puppy and owner to attend at least six classes taught by an AKC Approved CGC Evaluator as part of the program requirements.

Can my dog earn AKC Canine Good Citizen® at Paws At Play?

Yes.

Our K9 Kindergarten and Play School programs incorporate the skills associated with the AKC Canine Good Citizen® test.

Dogs who demonstrate readiness may have the opportunity to test with our AKC Approved CGC Evaluator.

Because every dog progresses differently, completing one of our training programs does not automatically guarantee a passing CGC score.

What's the difference between Play School and daycare?

Traditional daycare primarily focuses on supervised social play and care.

Play School adds intentional professional training to your dog's day.

Dogs rotate through purposeful experiences that may include structured socialization, individual training, enrichment, environmental exposure, skill building, and appropriate rest.

Does my dog need a Meet & Greet for Play School?

Yes.

All Play School dogs begin with a Trainer Meet & Greet so we can meet your dog and discuss their behaviors, training history, challenges, and your individual goals.

Following the Meet & Greet, dogs complete their required 5-Day Play School Induction before beginning the four-week program.

What's the difference between Play School and Board & Train?

Play School allows your dog to train during the day and return home, making it a great option for ongoing skill development while still enjoying structured socialization and activities.

Board & Train is an immersive residential training experience where your dog stays with us while receiving consistent professional training.

Both programs begin with a Trainer Meet & Greet and required five-day induction.

Why does Board & Train require a Meet & Greet?

Because we want to understand your concerns and your goals before we begin evaluating your dog.

The Meet & Greet gives you dedicated time with our trainer to discuss your dog's history, current behaviors, previous training, and what you'd like to accomplish.

It also gives our trainer an opportunity to meet your dog and determine whether Board & Train is an appropriate training option.

Why is a five-day induction required before Board & Train?

We want to know the dog we're training before recommending the program.

The Meet & Greet tells us about your experience with your dog.

Induction allows us to experience the dog ourselves.

Over five days, our trainers can observe learning style, motivation, current skills, social behavior, confidence, environmental responses, and other factors that help us create realistic training goals.

Following induction, we'll recommend the Board & Train program we believe is most appropriate.

How do I know whether my dog needs 14, 21, or 28 days?

You don't have to decide alone.

That's one of the reasons we require the Meet & Greet and five-day induction.

After getting to know your dog and understanding your goals, our trainer can recommend the program length that best fits the amount of training, repetition, proofing, and real-world practice your dog is likely to need.

Will my dog be perfectly trained when they come home from Board & Train?

Training is an ongoing process.

Board & Train can create a strong foundation and significantly improve your dog's skills, but owners play an essential role in maintaining those behaviors once the dog returns home.

That's why every Board & Train includes a private Go-Home Lesson designed to transfer the training from our team to yours.