Frequently Asked Questions

Sessions are scheduled at times and locations that work best for the client and the trainer.  Locations include your home, office, local shopping center or areas where you are interested in improving behavior. Individual trainers’ schedule may vary.

Positive training techniques mean that we are teaching the dog new behaviors by giving them a positive outcome when the behavior (i.e. ‘sit’) is given. A positive outcome is different for every dog.  An obvious, no brainer, positive outcome for most dogs is a food reward.  However, we look to incorporate praise and play as positive reinforcers.

Training can start today! With any good training program, the first step is building a good relationship. This starts the instant you bring your new dog home. There are numerous games and exercises to begin using that will give your dog a head start to a great partnership with you and your family. In-home sessions are an excellent place to start. This aids you in establishing the best house rules and home environment. It’s never to early to get the best out of your puppy.

Children are more than welcome to private, semi-private and group classes. There must be an adult present with any minors in group class. Trainers will be focused on the whole class and will not be able to personally attend to children during the lesson. For the safety of your children we are not flexible on this guideline.

KissAble Canine can train your dog without your presence. We understand the this may be the only approach in certain situations and we would be happy to work with you to put a program together.

Food is a very powerful and effective tool in training. Our goal in training is to use it to introduce behaviors. There is no need for you to carry a sack of stinky treats for the rest of your life. When your dog is learning a new behavior we will certainly be using motivators (praise, play, food, etc) as a positive outcome. Food is just another piece of the training puzzle. Weight management is very important in raising your dog and we will work with you to ensure your dog stays healthy.

The clicker is another tool to use in training dogs. It is not the only way to training your dog. However, it is known to be one of the most effective methods. Once you meet with a trainer and develop the best program for your dog, it may or may not include the clicker. In our eyes, a well-rounded trainer is familiar with the clicker and has it as another tool in the trainer’s “toolbox.” Again, we try to work with you to train your dog and you must be comfortable with the techniques we use.

KissAble Canine has been voted twice by Northern Virginia Magazine as Best Trainer (2010 & 2011) and recognized in the Washingtonian Magazine in the Best of Pets edition, 2008, 2010 and 2012. We have also been commented on Yelp! and Consumer’s Checkbook with favorable remarks. We are active in the local rescue communities and recommended by area veterinarians. For a wonderful article on selecting a trainer, take a look here: How to Choose a Dog Trainer.

Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy: The owner of the dog(s) may postpone any of the lessons provided seventy-two hours notice is given to KissAble Canine. The owner understands and agrees that failure to give the company seventy-two hours notice of a lesson cancellation by phone or email will result in KissAble Canine, LLC counting the lesson as a completed lesson with session price owed by the owner to KissAble Canine, LLC for this missed lesson. Thank you for allowing us an accurate and real calendar for all our clients.

KissAble Canine covers all of Northern Virginia, including Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William Counties. Mileage rates may apply depending actual distance from trainer to your location. Discounts or coupons may not be applied to mileage.