Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of training methods are used in your classes?
- What type of equipment should I bring to class?
- What are the class requirements (age, vaccines, etc.)?
- Can I bring more than one dog to class?
- Can I bring children to class?
- Can I enroll my deaf/blind/special needs dog in classes?
- Can I observe a class before signing up?
"What type of training methods are used in your classes?"
Here at Tandem, we concentrate on improving communication between dogs and owners. We focus on positive reinforcement, utilizing a variety of reinforcers including food. We mold specific training methods to fit the needs of individual dogs and owners and use a variety of techniques to teach you and your dog that training is fun. We will never intentionally intimidate or frighten your dog, and will not use force to make your dog comply.
"What type of equipment should I bring to class?"
In the basic level classes (Puppy I and Basic Manners) you will attend the first week of class without your dog, and needed equipment will be explained at that class meeting. In general, Tandem encourages the use of nylon or leather buckle collars and four to six foot nylon or leather leashes. Sens-a-tion harnesses, regular harnesses and head collars are accepted in class as long as they are being used properly and the dog is conditioned to accept them. Tandem does not allow choke chains, pinch collars or electric collars of any kind to be used during classes or private lessons. These tools are frequently misused and abused and are not suitable for inexperienced trainers.
"What are the class requirements (age, vaccines, etc.)?"
Puppy I is open to all puppies 7-14 weeks old at the start of class. If your puppy is of an exceptionally large or small breed (Great Dane or Chihuahua, for example), these age limits may be different to ensure the safety of all puppies involved. Please call for more information if your puppy fits into either of those categories.
Puppy II is open to puppies that have completed Puppy I or an introductory puppy class at another facility in which there is free puppy play, and that are under eight months old.
All other classes are open to dogs ages 15 weeks and up. There is no upper age limit to enroll your dog in training! Some classes do require that you've completed a previous class prior to enrollment. Read more about specific class requirements.
All dogs enrolling in classes must be current on their vaccines including kennel cough (bordetella), and must not be harboring a known contagious illness. Puppies should have received at least two vaccines before they attend their first week of class.
"Can I bring more than one dog to class?"
Tandem requires that each owner be handling only one dog at a time. If you have two puppies at once we encourage you to enroll them in separate puppy classes if possible, and if that is not possible you would need another family member to attend and handle the second puppy. If you have two adult dogs, you may attend with both dogs and work them each for half of each class period. The dog that is not being trained would need to be quietly crated or wait in the car, weather permitting. If you want to work with multiple dogs at once we encourage you to utilize our private training sessions.
"Can I bring children to class?"
Tandem encourages you to bring the entire family to class to learn easy and more consistent ways to communicate with your dog. Children under five should have a second adult present that can concentrate on them as needed. The main handler/trainer should be at least 10 years old.
"Can I enroll my deaf/blind/special needs dog in classes?"
Absolutely! We have experience training dogs with special needs in a class environment and would be happy to help you work with your special dog in either classes or private lessons.
"Can I observe a class before signing up?"
Of course! You are welcome to attend any regularly scheduled class without your dog to make sure Tandem will be a good fit for you and your dog. Feel free to call ahead and we can schedule a short time before or after class to answer any questions you may have.
