In-Home Dog Training

How many sessions will my dog need?

It depends on you and your dog. Some dogs will pick up the training quicker than others; and some are very stubborn, naughty or rebellious. When we start working with your dog, we will give you our professional opinion of how much training your dog will need.

Can you guarantee results?

A trainer cannot guarantee a living creature; just as with humans, there is no guarantee that a person will remember everything they’ve learned and will consistently follow through. What we do guarantee is that we will be there for you for every session you purchase. The training will work as you follow our plan and guidelines; we back up all of our training.

Do you charge per dog?

For training in your home, all dogs living with you are included. If you decide to participate in our Board and Train program, we charge per dog, as each dog is getting an individualized training program and working one-on-one with a trainer. We only take 3-4 dogs at a time.

What method do you use to train dogs?

We are trained in six different methods. The most important thing is that we find the method and program that works best for you and your dog. We will customize the program based on what your dog needs and responds to. If you have a request for a certain method, please let us know.

What age can I start training my puppy?

8 weeks and older. However, you can have us come over as soon as you get your dog so we can get you started on the right path. We can save you a lot of time, frustration and problems in the future by directing you and them on the right path immediately.

Does Smart Dog do group dog training ?

We do not offer group classes at this time. We feel that we can get much farther, faster by doing one on one training and customizing your program to fit your dog’s needs.

What do you use for rewards?

We give your dog lots of praise, love and affection.

Why should I train my dog at home?

Some dogs benefit from being trained in their own environment and some issues are specifically attached to your home. This will allow your dog to understand your environment and what you need. This will bring peace to your home and train everyone there. However, this program takes longer because it is once every couple of weeks for about an hour.

Why should I send them to your Board and Train “Dog Camp”?

Both options are wonderful and will make a huge difference in your life and your dog, but the difference is this:
We can do years’ worth of training in a couple of weeks. Training in our home is like giving your dog a fresh start instead of trying to teach your dog in an environment that they already made their bad habits in. Most dogs are more open to learning in a new environment. They learn quicker because we know how to handle each situation right away and keep them moving forward. It is one of the best ways for us to build a strong foundation and address any issues that you would like us to focus on as well as any others that show up. They are all included. Most people are not trainers so we cannot expect you to know all of the ins and outs of this process. Let us do the hard work and you can concentrate on the things you do best. Your dog needs consistency in training and most people’s lives cannot revolve around the dog 24/7. Ours does, which means we get farther faster. We build from each session they have all throughout the day. The more days they are with us, the more they will absorb during the day. When they graduate from Smart Dogs Academy, they will get one of four degrees depending on what level they are at. Associates, Bachelors, Masters or Dogtorate and their graduate picture.

Will my dog still show you all of his behaviors even in your home?

Your dog will ABSOLUTELY show us all of his behaviors. Dogs cannot pretend to be angels for very long. They will always show their true personality within a day or two. Many people think “they” are the problem, but it is a combination of both. We need to teach your dog the ropes and then we will teach you how to carry on the success.

How long will it take to train my dog?

This will depend upon you and your dog and how much time you have to spend reinforcing the training. If you work with your dog daily, several times a day, it takes less time. Dogs need repetition. We realize families are busy and your day cannot always revolve around your dog 24/7. We will give you a step-by-step plan and help you work through the steps to make this process easier. If you decide to do the Board and Train program it will take much less time because we are focusing all of our time on your dogs training needs.

How old is too old for a dog to be trained?

Your dog is never too old. We have trained dogs as old as 16 years.

Can you train aggressive dogs?

Absolutely!!!

Can you potty train my dog?

Absolutely!!!

Can you train shelter or rescue dogs?

Absolutely!!!

Do you train protection dogs?

We can train your dog to be alert and protective when someone comes to your home, but we do not train dogs to specifically to attack people.

What areas do you serve? How far do you travel?

Chicago – We drive within 50 miles of Downers Grove ( if you need farther we can work it out)

Kansas City, KS

Naples, FL

People call us from all over the country. If we can’t help you, we have a list of trusted dog trainers that we would be happy to refer you to.

Call us (630) 701-9730

Can you train dogs with separation anxiety?

Absolutely!!!

What happens if the training doesn’t work? Are there refunds?

The training works and we see great improvement every time we meet with you. We do not offer refunds; we cannot guarantee that you will follow through with all of the guidelines laid out for you. No one can guarantee a living creature. We CAN guarantee we will be there for you to help you for as many sessions as you purchase.

Can you train for therapy dogs?

Yes, we can get your dog ready for the therapy certification.

We adopted a 4 year old Maltese mix with behavior issues, and that was the reason he was given up. My husband & I felt his next step was a shelter if we didn’t take him or worse. We are so grateful we found Smart Dogs and Kristy. After just one session in our home, within two days, our dog Kilo has changed for the better.

– Ken & Deb Daley with dog Kilo