FAQs (aka: Answers You Want Before Your Dog Runs the House)

Life is always better when your dog listens to you. These are the questions people ask right before they text me at 11:47 PM.

Before You Hire Anyone
What Sets Exceptional Canines Apart?

In-home. Real life. Calm leadership. And yes… we train both ends of the leash.

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Short version:

You’re not hiring “a person who teaches Sit.” You’re hiring a system — so your home stops feeling like a dog-themed escape room.

We train in your home.Doorbells, guests, kids, cats, counters, couches… the real stuff that actually triggers behavior.
We coach humans too.Because the leash end with the calendar and the habits matters as much as the dog.
We do a plan — not random tips.Clear steps based on your dog, your goals, and what you can realistically sustain.
We train for transfer.Not “listens when the trainer is here.” We train for Tuesday night, tired and barefoot.
Bottom line: You’re not trying to create a “perfect dog.” You’re trying to create a peaceful home. That’s what we build.
Training Method
Do You Use Positive Reinforcement?

Yes. And we also use structure — because treats don’t pay the mortgage.

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Short answer:

Yes — we use positive reinforcement. No — you don’t need to become a full-time snack dealer with a PhD in timing.

We reward what we want repeated.Calm behavior. Focus. Engagement. Choosing you over chaos.
We use operant conditioning for reliability.Good choices earn good outcomes. Poor choices get calm feedback. Not drama — just information.
Motivation starts it. Proof finishes it.Treats are a tool. The goal is listening even when the treat pouch is not doing a TED Talk.
We tailor rewards to your dog.Food, play, affection, freedom, structure — whatever actually moves the needle for your dog.
Bottom line: We’re not building a treat-dependent dog. We’re building a reliable one.
Trainer Style
What Kind of Trainer Are You?

Clear communication. Calm leadership. Real-life results.

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Short answer:

I’m a real-life trainer. Which means I use what works — responsibly, calmly, and with a plan. No ego. No chaos. No “internet heroics.”

Positive reinforcement is a foundation.We build engagement and clarity — then we add structure so it holds up in the real world.
Clear boundaries create confidence.Dogs relax when the rules are consistent, fair, and predictable.
Safety and professionalism come first.We don’t rush aggression cases, we don’t wing it, and we don’t gamble with people’s homes.
Every family gets an individualized plan.Because your house, your schedule, and your dog’s history actually matter.
Translation: We build partnership — not dependency on a trainer, and not obedience that only works in perfect demo conditions.
What To Expect
What Do In-Home Training Sessions Look Like?

We train where life happens — so the skills actually transfer.

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Short version:

We train in your home — not in Dog Training Disneyland. Your doorbell. Your entryway. Your couch. Your real triggers.

We assess first.What’s happening, when it happens, and why it keeps repeating.
We install the system.Markers, timing, leash mechanics, “Place,” structure, and clean reps.
You practice between visits.Because the magic is the reps you do when I’m not standing there.
We add distraction and proof.Calm → mild distraction → heavier distraction → real-life chaos (in the right order).
Translation: We’re building skills that show up when the doorbell rings — not just when everyone is calm and caffeinated.
Sessions + Timing
How Long Are Sessions — And Why Every 2–3 Weeks?

Super Session vs follow-ups… and why the spacing matters.

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Quick clarity (because everyone asks):

Your first visit is usually a Super Session — 90 minutes for young puppies, and up to 2–2.5 hours for older dogs or behavior cases.

Your follow-up sessions are typically around an hour. They’re not “mini Super Sessions” — they’re tactical check-ins to tighten the system you’ve been practicing.

Super Session = immersionFull picture. Real environment. Install structure fast. Build the roadmap.
Follow-ups = tacticalOne focused hour to clean mechanics, add the next layer, and keep progress moving.
Why every 2–3 weeks (usually 3)?Because neurobiology + repetition + habit formation happens between sessions — for humans and dogs.
Need extra support?Totally fine. If you want more sessions in-between for reps and coaching, we can build that path.
The bathtub vs ocean idea: Training without proofing is like teaching someone to swim in a bathtub. Six inches of warm water — they kick, they smile, they float… looks amazing. Then you take them to the ocean: waves, current, noise, salt in their eyes. Suddenly the bathtub skills don’t feel so solid.

That’s why we layer things: calm water → ripples → waves → wind. Same skill… more reality.
Now picture this: The Amazon driver shows up with a package… and there’s a cat behind him as you open the door. Your dog is on Place. Do they explode — or do they look to you and hold position?

That moment gets built in layers: language → structure → mild distraction → heavier distraction → proof.
If you ever feel unsure between sessions, send a quick video. Athletes watch game film — we do the same thing.
Time + Commitment
How Long Does Training Take — And How Much Work Is Required?

Real answers. Real life. Real expectations.

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Short answer:

It depends on your dog’s history, your goals, and how consistently the household runs the system. The good news: you don’t need two-hour “training marathons.” You need repeatable reps.

Dogs learn in short bursts.3–5 minutes. Clean reps. End on a win. Repeat.
You already have training built into your day.Meals. Walks. Potty breaks. Doorways. That’s your training currency.
15–20 total intentional minutes/day changes everything.Five minutes here and there beats “one intense day” once a month.
Both ends of the leash participate.It’s unfair to expect behavior change on only one side.
Bottom line: Consistency beats intensity. I’ll give you the plan — you run the reps.
Tools + Gear
What Training Tools Do You Use?

Simple tools, clean mechanics, and the right fit for your dog.

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Short version:

We use tools that create clarity and safety — not tools that replace training. The “best” tool depends on your dog, your handling skill, and the situation we’re solving.

Leashes + long linesFor control, distance work, and safe proofing (especially recall).
Collars/harnesses (case-dependent)We choose gear that supports the training goal and keeps everyone safe.
Food/play rewardsTo build motivation and engagement — then we proof reliability beyond rewards.
Muzzle conditioning (when needed)Safety-first tool, trained properly and positively — not a punishment.
Bottom line: Tools don’t train dogs. Reps + structure train dogs. Tools just help us deliver the reps safely.
Older Dogs
Do You Train Older Dogs — Or Is This Just for Puppies?

Older dogs learn fine. We train the reality you’re living in.

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Short answer:

Yes — we work with older dogs all the time. Age isn’t the issue. History and rehearsed habits are the issue… and those can be changed.

Older dogs come with practice reps.Pulling, barking, ignoring recall, guarding, doorway chaos — they’ve rehearsed it. We rewrite it.
Clarity beats “stubborn.”Most “stubborn” dogs are actually confused or inconsistent-trained. We clean the picture up.
Phases still apply.Install language → add structure → proof under distraction.
Confidence is built.We build repeatable wins — then widen the environment and pressure gradually.
Bottom line: You don’t need a perfect dog. You need a dog that can live in your home without daily negotiations.
Aggression & Reactivity
Do You Work with Aggression, Reactivity, or “My Dog Loses It” Behavior?

Yes — safely, professionally, and without internet heroics.

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Short answer:

Yes. Reactivity, fear-based aggression, resource guarding, leash explosions, barrier frustration — this is a major part of what we do.

We identify the “why” first.Fear, anxiety, frustration, pain, territorial behavior, learned rehearsal — different causes need different plans.
Safety is non-negotiable.Distance, thresholds, handling, and management come first so nobody gets hurt while we retrain the pattern.
We recondition triggers.Counter-conditioning + desensitization + structure. We change what your dog feels, not just what your dog does.
We proof real-life obedience.Skills that hold up when the trigger is actually present — built clean, built safe, built over time.
Bottom line: We don’t “correct the dog until it stops.” We build a safer nervous system and repeatable choices.
Multiple Dogs
What If I Have Two Dogs?

We can train both — but we do it in the right order.

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Short answer:

Yes — multi-dog homes are common. We just don’t throw both dogs into a session and hope for the best.

We start 1-on-1 first.Each dog needs clean reps without the other dog hijacking the session. Then we combine.
We train the relationship too.A lot of “bad behavior” is one dog setting the other one off. Structure fixes the home dynamic.
Owner handling matters.If you can’t confidently manage both dogs yet, that’s not failure — it’s just Phase 2.
We build calm routines.The goal is predictable, peaceful flow — not constant management and stress.
Policies + Professional Standards
What Is Your Cancellation & Refund Policy?

Clear boundaries create clear expectations.

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Short version:

Programs are scheduled when you enroll. Services are prepaid. Once training begins, payments are non-refundable.

48-hour notice to reschedule.Less than 48 hours’ notice = session forfeited.
No refunds for missed/unused sessions.Programs do not extend due to missed scheduling.
Scheduling responsibility is on the client.This keeps expectations clear and professional.
Limited exception.Documented death in the immediate family within the first 24 hours of the first session may qualify per agreement.
No Guarantees: Behavior is influenced by genetics, environment, consistency, and owner follow-through. Training improves reliability over time, but outcomes cannot be ethically guaranteed.
Getting Started
How Do I Get Started With Exceptional Canines?

Simple. Structured. No confusion.

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Short answer:

Most clients begin with a Super Session. It gives you clarity, structure, and real answers — fast.

Step 1 • Start with the contact form.That triggers the questionnaire so I can review your dog’s backstory before we meet.
Step 2 • Quick fit call.10–15 minutes to confirm goals, timeline, and fit. No pressure. No sales theater.
Step 3 • Book the Super Session.90 minutes to 2.5 hours in-home. We don’t “talk about training.” We train.
You leave with a real plan.Clear structure. Clean reps. Clear next steps. Not a motivational speech and a handshake.
Expectations + Integrity
Do You Guarantee Results?

Honest answer. Professional expectations.

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Short answer:

No trainer can ethically guarantee specific outcomes. And anyone who does should make you pause.

Dogs are not machines.Behavior is influenced by genetics, environment, reinforcement history, and owner follow-through.
Training improves clarity + reliability.We build repeatable reps and structure. Reliability increases over time.
Your consistency matters.Results are tied to what happens between sessions.
What I do guarantee:You’ll leave with a clear plan, clean mechanics, and honest coaching — not hype.
The truth: Sustainable change is built — not promised.
Service Dog Program
Do You Offer Service Dog Training — And What Are the Requirements?

Legitimate standards. Real training. No shortcuts.

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Short answer:

Yes — but this is not “buy a vest and go.” We do it the legitimate way.

Service dogs are not pets.Under the ADA, a service dog is trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability.
Medical determination belongs to a licensed professional.A trainer cannot “diagnose” your need — that’s medical/legal territory.
Public access behavior must be real.Neutrality, control, and stability in public — proof beats promises.
Not every dog qualifies.Temperament, genetics, and resilience matter. Ethical programs evaluate suitability first.
Important: ESAs and Service Dogs are not the same category under the ADA.
Travel Regulations
Service Dog Travel in 2026 — U.S. & International Rules

Trained dogs. Clear paperwork. No shortcuts.

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Reality check:

Airline rules are strict. Only fully trained, task-specific service dogs qualify for in-cabin travel under DOT rules.

U.S. domestic flightsAirlines may require DOT forms and advance submission. Plan ahead.
Behavior standards matterDogs must remain under control and non-disruptive.
ESAs travel as petsMost airlines treat ESAs under pet policies (fees, carriers, restrictions).
International travelEntry rules vary by country. Expect health certificates, microchip records, and extra steps.
Bottom line: Paperwork does not replace behavior. Public access stability is the whole game.
Documentation + Professional Referral
Do You Need Documentation or a Professional Evaluation?

Legitimate process. Proper referrals. No shortcuts.

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Clarity matters:

Service dog status is based on task-specific training tied to a disability — not buying a certificate online.

Start with an assessmentWe evaluate the dog, your goals, and what “legitimate” looks like for your case.
Medical verification is medicalA licensed professional determines disability-related need — not a trainer.
Real evaluation isn’t instantResponsible programs don’t approve dogs from a five-minute form.
Behavior still mattersRegardless of paperwork, a service dog must perform in public with stability and control.
Next step: Use the Contact Page form to reach me and I’ll direct you to the correct path.
Next Step
Ready to turn “we’ll figure it out” into a real plan?

If you’re not sure what you need, start with the Super Session. It’s the fastest way to get clarity, structure, and reps that work in your actual home.

Book a Super Session → Contact Exceptional Canines →
Quick guide: If your dog is struggling with reactivity, aggression, anxiety, door chaos, leash chaos, or puppy fundamentals — the Super Session gets you the cleanest “here’s what to do next” path.

Exceptional Canines is a Vetted Professional of the 

International Association of Canine Professionals 

Member # 3844688

&

Ingo is also and AKC Canine Good Citizen, Star Puppy, 

URBAN/Community CGC, Evaluator/Instructor

(My AKC # 108736)

 

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