Frequently Asked Questions

Got a question? We’ve tried to answer many of your common questions here. If you can’t find an answer on this page, please contact us.
Force-free dog training is a humane, science-based approach that focuses on positive reinforcement and cooperation together with holistic approaches to a dogs behavior and overall quality of life.

Instead of using intimidation or physical “corrections” or ‘tools’ to change behavior, we use rewards like treats, praise, and play to build confidence to encourage desirable behavior. This promotes positive associations and a stress-free learning environment.

Whilst many training styles will use ‘positive reinforcement’ methods as part of their approach, force-free training is a promise to use ONLY use positive methods. No pain, no force, no fear (no prong, no shock, no choke).
Aligning with the latest research (consistently supporting the effectiveness and benefits of non-aversive techniques) aversive free training is endorsed by leading veterinary and behavioral organizations such as the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB).

By committing to exclusively force-free training, you are not only likely to get better, more sustainable results but you also ensure a safe and enjoyable learning environment for your dog.
Every dog and it’s family is different but we typically always start with an assessment in your dogs environment (where the behavior is occurring) to best understand your dog’s needs and your goals.

Sessions may then be held in a variety of settings, including your home and it’s surrounds, depending on what’s best for your dog and our goals.

Our philosophy is that sustainable behavior comes from connection and understanding of dog behavior and learning theory. Because of this we train both dogs AND their families.

Whilst some families might need more ‘hands on’ support than others, for every dog we coach, emphasis is placed on owner involvement and empowerment throughout the training process.
We offer a variety of training services tailored to meet your dog’s needs, including housebreaking, puppy manners, ‘AKC Puppy star’ and ‘Canine Good Citizen’ training, enrichment, low stress handing and co-operative care coaching, and basic through to advanced obedience (to name a few). For some clients we support the children in the home with Dog-child safety advisory and for others we might support the transition of an older shelter or adopted dog into the home environment.

We also offer behavior modification for anxiety, aggression, reactivity and other serious behavior concerns with methods tailored to identify the root causes of behavior and develop effective, humane strategies to address them holistically.

If in doubt, contact us at comebackdogtrainingLLC@gmail.com to tell us a little about your goals and let’s chat.
We understand that plans can change and emergencies can happen. You can cancel or reschedule a session up to 24 hours in advance without any charge. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before a session may be subject to a cancellation fee to accommodate the scheduling adjustments.
Our refund policy is designed to be fair and accommodating. If you are not satisfied with a consultation and notify us within 24 hours, we will review your case and depending on the circumstance, either process a refund or provide you with the option to reschedule at no additional cost.

Training packages (purchased post initial consultation) are non-refundable, though may be considered on compassionate grounds on a case-by-case basis.
We understand that ‘life happens’. This is why all appointment times are set with a 10 minute window of flexibility. As we are often driving to and from appointments, we ask for the same curtesy from you to allow time for varying traffic conditions. Our hour then begins at the start of the session so that your hour is not cut short.

In the event we are more than 10 minutes late for a consult, we will notify you of our expected arrival time and offer you the opportunity to reschedule your appointment (should it be time sensitive for you) at no additional cost.

For clients who run more than 10minutes late without prior notice, appointments may be cut short or rescheduled at the discretion of the trainer and their schedule that day.
The time it takes to see results can vary based on the dog’s individual learning pace, the behavior being addressed, and how consistently training techniques are applied at home. Most owners notice improvements within a few weeks of consistent practice and reinforcement.
No. We do not provide service dog training or protection work. We do, however, offer training for emotional support dogs (these dogs do not perform services outside of emotional support) and help you prepare these dogs for the world with socialization support, manners training and support with early training programs such as the AKC Star Puppy and Canine Good Citizen test.
While our primary focus is on active, involved training with owners, we do offer limited board and train options for specific needs subject to temperament and availability.

These programs are designed with the same force-free principles and include extensive follow-up to ensure a smooth transition back home.