Frequently asked questions.
What training methods do you use?
At Adventure Paws, we use a relationship based, balanced approach that focuses on trust, communication, and consistency. Every dog is unique, so we tailor training to what works best for them.
Do you use training tools other than treats?
Yes, when appropriate and only if it benefits both the dog and owner. Tools are never forced—they’re introduced with education, owner consent, and safety in mind. Our goal is to always strengthen the bond, not create stress.
How is your training different from traditional obedience classes or board and train programs?
Adventure Paws Dog Training philosophy is simple: Confidence, Connection, and Adventure. This means, confidence building through exposure training (showing our dog the world), desensitization, and problem solving together. Connection through clear communication, mutual trust, and shared experiences. This confidence and connection allows us to adventure: taking our dogs with us anywhere without the stress and without the embarrassment. This involves more than obedience, it’s training that fosters a lifestyle of confidence and courage.
How long are training sessions?
Camp Canine sessions are 1 hour.
The initial Private Lesson is 1-1.5 hours, and follow-ups are 1 hour.
Adventure Pack Hikes are 3-4.5 hours.
Summer: 4 hours total (2 hour hike)
Winter: 3 hours total (1 hour hike)
With 1 hour for pick up, 1 hour drop off, and 15-30 minutes to gear up and train before we begin our adventure.
Do I need to be home during training?
It is not required, but you are welcome to join in training and we will teach you all the skills to set you and your pup up for success!
What’s your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
Life can be unpredictable, and we understand that plans can sometimes change. To ensure fairness and keep our adventures running smoothly, please review the policy below:
FULL REFUND: 48 hours or more before your scheduled appointment.
PARTIAL REFUND: Within 24-48 hours will receive a 50% refund.
LATE CANCELLATION: Less than 24 hours cannot be refunded, as your pups spot has been reserved and preparations have already been made.
EMERGENCIES: We understand true emergencies happen. If you experience an emergency, please let us know as soon as possible—these situations will always be handled with compassion.
Thank you for your understanding and for helping us provide the best experience for all Adventure Paws pack members. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
General Questions
Camp Canine, Private Lessons, and Pack Hikes
How does Camp Canine work?
Your trainer will come to your house for 1 hour each day, Monday to Friday, for four weeks. During this hour, your trainer will teach your dog foundational skills like obedience (sit, down, stay etc.), loose-leash walking, confidence building, and tackling any behavioural challenges. Every week your trainer will take your dog out for exposure training to dog-friendly places where your dog will learn the “art of doing nothing,” they will generalize the skills learned in the home, and see the world reducing fearfulness and foster neutrality.
What issues can private lessons help with?
Private lessons are great for tackling specific challenges and for owners who want to be involved with a more hands-on approach. We will listen closely, and guide you every step of the way to working on issues like leash pulling, reactivity, barking, aggression, or fearfulness.
How many lessons will I need?
This depends on your goals, but progress can often be seen quickly. Depending on what behaviours we are working through, one or two lessons may suffice. For more complex issues, we may need a consistent schedule to ensure progress is made. Remember, we only spend 1 hour with you and your dog, and the other 23 hours is up to you, so the success of training is in your hands—but don’t worry, we‘ll teach you everything you need to know to keep up with the training while I’m away.
What happens on Adventure Pack Hikes?
We will pick up your dog, and once we get to the trail head we will spend approximately 30 minutes gearing up and training, getting everyone in the right headspace to safely and calmly begin the adventure. We spend the next 1.5-2 hours exploring, socializing, and enjoying the great outdoors. During this time, we stop for multiple water & snack breaks. We also incorporate training to safely pass other hikers, overcome obstacles, reinforce recall and obedience, and nurture those natural instincts to chase, forage, and sniff (dogs see the world with their nose). At the end, we drop off your tired, happy, and fulfilled dog!
How many dogs are in each pack?
A maximum of 4 client dogs, plus my own personal dog. There can be a total of 5 dogs per hike.
What if my dog isn’t good with other dogs?
Pack hikes are not suitable for every dog, so to ensure everyone’s safety, we book a Free In-person Consultation with each new pack member and do a full assessment to make sure they’re a right fit. If a dog is not quite ready to join the pack, we will offer training to help get them there, because every dog deserves adventure! Fearfulness, reactivity, and aggression should not hold a dog back from experiencing the world. In fact, behavioural challenges often arise from a lack of mental and physical fulfillment, which is why with some training, pack hikes are an amazing resource to help dogs be their best self and live their best life.
What safety measures do you take on hikes?
All client dogs are leashed and wearing a Tractive GPS tracker. Off-leash freedoms are only available to dogs who have had extensive training and are wearing an ecollar for guaranteed recall. We always carry a first-aid kit, bear spray, utility tool, and hike known trails. We also have Pet First Aid and Wildlife Awareness certification.
Walk + Train
What is a Walk + Train session?
Walk + Train sessions combine the benefits of a professional dog walk with the expertise of a certified trainer. During each session, your dog enjoys a structured walk designed to reinforce good leash manners, focus, and obedience while getting physical and mental exercise. Before heading out, we spend 5–10 minutes on training to refresh key skills and set the tone for a calm, purposeful outing.
What does a typical Walk + Train look like?
Each session begins with a short training warm-up—working on building engagement, marker words, and getting your dog in the right headspace. Once your dog is focused, we head out for a walk where training continues in real-life environments. I’ll reinforce leash skills, address pulling or reactivity, and practice calm behavior around distractions. The goal is to make every walk a learning opportunity that builds confidence and consistency.
Who is this service best for?
Walk + Train is ideal for busy owners who want their dog’s daily exercise to also support their training goals. It’s perfect for dogs who need extra help with leash manners, impulse control, or confidence in new environments. It’s also a great option for maintaining progress after private lessons or Camp Canine, while also getting a potty break mid-day.
How long are Walk + Train sessions?
There are two options. I offer 30 minute and 60 minute sessions, depending on your dog’s needs and energy level. This includes the pre-walk training time and the walk itself to ensure your dog returns home calm and fulfilled.
Do I need to be home during the session?
No, you don’t need to be home. We can arrange secure access to your dog, and you’ll receive a detailed update after each session outlining what we worked on, how your dog did, and any tips for maintaining progress at home.