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Training Philosophy & Methods
For questions about our science-backed, compassionate approach.
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What is the process after I contact you?
We make it simple! After you reach out via our contact form or email, we’ll respond quickly to ask a few questions and schedule a brief phone chat. Following our phone conversation, we’ll book your free 30-minute consultation to discuss your goals and how we can help.
What types of programs do you offer?
We offer a range of programs designed to meet diverse needs, including Puppy Programs for new additions, Custom Training Programs for specific behavioral challenges, Virtual Dog Training for remote learning, and Self-Study Courses for flexible, self-paced education.
Where is Calling All Dogs located?
We are based in Batavia, New York, and primarily serve Western New York and the surrounding areas for in-home lessons. Our virtual programs are available to clients anywhere.
How long has Calling All Dogs been in business?
Calling All Dogs has been proudly serving dog owners for over 12 years, with more than 15 years of experience in dog training and behavior modification.
What makes Calling All Dogs different from other trainers?
We combine extensive experience, a compassionate, results-driven approach, and a focus on building strong human-canine bonds. Our specialization in aggressive and reactive dogs, coupled with personalized coaching and flexible program options (in-home, virtual, self-study), ensures tailored solutions for every client.
How long does it take to train a dog?
The duration of dog training varies greatly depending on the dog’s age, breed, temperament, the specific behaviors being addressed, and the owner’s consistency. Training is an ongoing process, but significant progress can often be seen within a few weeks or months with dedicated effort.
Can you train an old dog new tricks?
Absolutely! The saying ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks’ is a myth. Dogs of all ages can learn new behaviors, including working on reactivity or aggression. In fact, older dogs often have better focus and are less easily distracted than puppies.
Do you offer group classes?
Currently, we focus on personalized training through in-home lessons, virtual sessions, and self-study courses to provide the most tailored and effective solutions for individual dog and owner needs.
How do I get started with Calling All Dogs?
The best way to begin is to visit our “Contact” page or use the “Get In Touch” button on our website. Tell us about your dog and your training goals, and we’ll schedule a chat to discuss the best program options for you.
How do I choose the right dog trainer for my dog?
Look for trainers who use positive reinforcement methods, have certifications from reputable organizations, and offer clear communication. A good trainer should also be transparent about their methods and willing to discuss your dog’s specific needs and your training goals.
What is the difference between dog training and behavior modification?
Dog training typically focuses on teaching basic obedience commands (sit, stay, come) and manners. Behavior modification, on the other hand, addresses more complex and deeply ingrained behavioral issues like aggression, severe anxiety, or phobias, often requiring a more in-depth and specialized approach.
Training Philosophy & Methods
What training methods do you use?
Our entire training philosophy is grounded in LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) principles and backed by modern animal behavior science. This means we focus on teaching your dog what to do using positive reinforcement, such as rewarding them with treats, praise, or play. We don’t rely on force, fear, pain, or intimidation. Our goal is to build a stronger, more trusting relationship between you and your dog, because effective training is about clear communication, not correction.
Are you a "positive reinforcement" or "balanced" trainer?
We are proud to be positive reinforcement-based trainers. This means our methods are centered on rewarding desired behaviors and managing the environment to prevent unwanted ones. We do not use tools designed to cause discomfort or pain, such as prong collars, choke chains, or shock collars (e-collars), which are common in “balanced” training. Our approach is proven to be not only highly effective for everything from basic manners to complex aggression cases, but it also strengthens the bond you share with your dog, making the training process enjoyable for everyone.
Do I have to be the "alpha" or "pack leader" for my dog?
No, you do not. The “alpha” or “dominance theory” is an outdated concept based on flawed observations of captive wolves from decades ago. Modern behavioral science has shown that dogs are not trying to dominate us; they are simply trying to figure out what behaviors work to get them what they want and need. Our goal is to teach you to be a clear, consistent, and trustworthy leader for your dog—much like a good teacher or parent—not a forceful “alpha.” This creates a relationship based on mutual respect and cooperation, which is far more effective and healthy.
Do you use shock collars, prong collars, or other aversive tools?
No, Calling All Dogs NY exclusively uses positive reinforcement and force-free training methods. We believe in building a strong, trusting relationship with your dog through rewards and clear communication, rather than fear or intimidation.
What is positive reinforcement training?
Positive reinforcement training involves adding something desirable (like treats, praise, or toys) to increase the likelihood of a desired behavior occurring again. It’s a humane and effective method that builds a strong, trusting bond between you and your dog.
How do you handle "bad" behavior if you don't use punishment?
This is the core of great training. Instead of punishing “bad” behavior after it happens, we focus on two key strategies:
- Management: We first manage the environment to prevent the dog from practicing the unwanted behavior in the first place. For example, we might use a baby gate to prevent counter-surfing instead of waiting for it to happen.
- Teaching an Alternative: We then teach the dog a better, more appropriate behavior to do instead. For a dog that jumps on guests, we don’t punish the jumping; we teach them that sitting politely is what earns them the attention they crave. By making the “good” behavior more rewarding than the “bad” one, the dog naturally begins to make better choices.
Will my dog become dependent on treats?
This is a very common and excellent question. The short answer is no. In the beginning, we use treats frequently as a clear and powerful way to “pay” your dog for learning a new skill, just like a person gets a paycheck for their job. It is all about building a strong foundation. As your dog becomes more fluent in a behavior, we systematically fade the reliance on constant food rewards. The behavior itself starts to become rewarding, and we replace food with real-life rewards like praise, petting, toys, or the freedom to go outside. Treats are a crucial tool for teaching, not a permanent crutch for performance.
How does Virtual Dog Training work?
Virtual Dog Training sessions are conducted online via video calls. You and your dog will receive live, personalized instruction and feedback from our trainer in the comfort of your own home. This format is highly effective for many issues and offers great flexibility. We use virtual training to work with owners and their dogs from around the world!
Reactivity & Aggression
What's the difference between "reactivity" and "aggression"?
In everyday conversation, these terms are often used interchangeably, but there are some technical differences. Reactivity typically refers to dogs who have big emotional responses to specific triggers, like barking, lunging, or growling at other dogs, strangers, or certain situations. Aggression usually refers to behavior intended to create distance or cause harm, which can include biting.
What’s important to understand is that both reactive and aggressive behaviors often stem from the same underlying emotions: fear, anxiety, frustration, or overstimulation. Whether your dog is “just” barking and lunging or has escalated to snapping or biting, the training approach focuses on changing how your dog feels about their triggers, not just suppressing the outward behavior.
Do your reactive dog programs help with aggressive dogs?
Absolutely! Our reactive dog programs are specifically designed to address both reactive and aggressive behaviors. Whether your dog barks and lunges or has escalated to snapping or biting, we can help you.
If your dog has bitten or you’re concerned about safety, we want to work with you. Our programs include comprehensive safety management protocols and behavior modification techniques that address the root causes of both reactive and aggressive responses. We focus on helping your dog feel calmer and more confident, which naturally reduces both types of problematic behavior.
The goal is always the same: to help your dog learn to navigate the world with less stress and more confidence, creating a safer and more peaceful life for your entire family.
My dog is aggressive/reactive. Can you help?
Yes, we specialize in working with aggressive and reactive dogs. Our custom training programs are designed to address these complex behaviors through careful assessment, behavior modification techniques, and consistent coaching to help your dog manage their reactions and build confidence.
My dog has bitten someone. Can you still help?
Yes, we can help. Dog bites are serious, and it’s crucial to seek professional help immediately. We work with owners of aggressive dogs to understand the root cause of the aggression, implement safety protocols, and develop a comprehensive behavior modification plan to reduce the risk of future incidents and improve your dog’s behavior.
What does it mean if my dog is reactive?
A reactive dog overreacts to certain stimuli (triggers) in their environment, such as other dogs, people, or sounds. This overreaction often manifests as barking, lunging, growling, or pulling on the leash, even if the dog isn’t necessarily aggressive.
Can dog reactivity be cured?
While reactivity often can’t be completely ‘cured’ in the sense that the dog will never react again, it can be significantly managed and improved through consistent training, behavior modification, and management strategies. Our goal is to help your dog feel more comfortable and confident, reducing their need to react.
How do you train reactive dogs?
Our approach to training reactive dogs involves identifying triggers, teaching alternative behaviors, and gradually desensitizing and counter-conditioning your dog to their triggers in a controlled and positive manner. We focus on building confidence and teaching you how to effectively manage and communicate with your reactive dog.
What are common triggers for reactive dogs?
Common triggers include other dogs, strangers, children, bicycles, skateboards, cars, loud noises, and even certain visual stimuli. Triggers can be unique to each dog, and identifying them is a key part of our training process.
What causes dog aggression?
Dog aggression can stem from various factors, including fear, anxiety, pain, resource guarding, territoriality, genetics, lack of socialization, or past negative experiences. A thorough assessment is necessary to determine the underlying cause and develop an effective training plan.
What safety measures should I take with an aggressive dog?
Safety is paramount. This may include using a muzzle in public, avoiding known triggers, securing your home, and always supervising interactions. We will guide you on appropriate safety protocols tailored to your dog’s specific situation.
Puppy Programs
What is included in your Puppy Programs?
Our Puppy Programs focus on essential early development, including socialization, basic obedience commands (sit, stay, come) to advanced obedience (loose-leash walking, coming when called, polite greetings), house-training, crate training, and addressing common puppy behaviors like nipping and chewing. The goal is to set your puppy up for a lifetime of good behavior.
When should I start training my puppy?
The best time to start training your puppy is as soon as you bring them home, typically around 8 weeks of age. Early socialization and basic obedience training are crucial for developing a well-adjusted and confident adult dog.
How can I stop my puppy from nipping and biting?
Puppy nipping is normal, but it needs to be managed. Provide appropriate chew toys, redirect biting to toys, give time-outs, and disengage from play if nipping continues. Our puppy programs offer specific strategies to teach bite inhibition.
What should I do if my dog is having potty accidents indoors?
First, rule out any medical issues with a vet visit. Then, establish a consistent potty schedule, reward successful outdoor eliminations, and supervise your dog closely indoors. Our puppy programs and in-home lessons can provide detailed guidance and support for effective potty training.
How do I socialize my puppy properly?
Puppy socialization involves safely exposing your puppy to a wide variety of sights, sounds, people, and other dogs during their critical developmental period (up to 16 weeks). This helps them grow into confident, well-adjusted adults. Our puppy programs provide structured socialization opportunities and guidance.
My puppy is chewing everything. What can I do?
Chewing is a natural puppy behavior. Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys, redirect your puppy to their toys when they chew on inappropriate items, and limit access to anything your puppy shouldn’t chew. Crate training can also help manage chewing when unsupervised.
What is crate training and why is it important?
Crate training involves teaching your puppy to view their crate as a safe, comfortable den. It’s important for potty training, managing chewing, providing a safe space for your puppy, and can be invaluable for travel or vet visits. We can guide you through the process of positive crate training.
My puppy cries at night in their crate. What should I do?
It’s normal for puppies to cry initially. Ensure the crate is comfortable, in a quiet location, and that your puppy has had a potty break before bedtime. Avoid giving attention to crying unless your puppy requires a basic need to be met, as it can reinforce the behavior. Gradually increase the time they spend in the crate during the day. Our puppy programs offer detailed strategies for successful crate training.
Obedience & Manners
How long does it take to train a dog basic obedience?
The timeline for basic obedience training varies depending on your dog’s age, previous training experience, and how consistently you practice. Most dogs can learn fundamental commands like sit, stay, and come within 4-8 weeks with regular training sessions. However, developing reliable obedience that works in real-world situations with distractions typically takes 3-6 months of consistent practice. Our structured obedience programs are designed to accelerate this process by providing you with clear training plans and expert guidance every step of the way.
What age should I start obedience training with my dog?
It’s never too early or too late to start obedience training! Our programs are designed for dogs 6 months and older, but we’ve successfully trained dogs of all ages, from young puppies to senior dogs. Younger dogs (6 months to 2 years) often learn faster, but older dogs can absolutely master new skills with the right approach. The key is using positive reinforcement methods that work for your dog’s individual learning style and energy level.
How do I stop my dog from jumping on people?
Jumping is one of the most common obedience issues! The key is teaching your dog an alternative behavior that gets them the attention they want. We teach dogs to sit politely for greetings instead of jumping. This involves consistent practice, managing your dog’s environment to prevent jumping practice, and ensuring everyone in your household (and visitors) responds the same way.
Why won't my dog come when called? How can I improve my dog's recall?
Poor recall is usually caused by one of three issues: lack of proper training, competing motivations, or negative associations with coming when called. Many dogs learn that “come” means the fun ends (going inside, leaving the park, etc.). Our recall training focuses on making coming to you the best thing that can happen to your dog. We teach you how to build a strong recall gradually, starting in low-distraction environments and progressively working up to real-world situations.
What's the difference between obedience training and behavior modification?
Obedience training focuses on teaching your dog specific commands and skills like sit, stay, come, and loose-leash walking. Behavior modification addresses problematic behaviors like excessive barking, destructive chewing, or separation anxiety. Our obedience programs primarily focus on teaching new skills and good manners, though many behavioral issues improve naturally when dogs have clear structure and mental stimulation. If your dog has specific behavioral problems, we can discuss whether our obedience programs or specialized behavior modification would be most helpful.
Virtual
Do you work with clients outside the United States?
Puppy socialization involves safely exposing your puppy to a wide variety of sights, sounds, people, and other dogs during their critical developmental period (up to 16 weeks). This helps them grow into confident, well-adjusted adults. Our puppy programs provide structured socialization opportunities and guidance.
How do you handle different time zones for international clients?
Chewing is a natural puppy behavior. Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys, redirect your puppy to their toys when they chew on inappropriate items, and consider using bitter sprays on things you don’t want them to chew. Crate training can also help manage chewing when unsupervised.
Can virtual training work for rescue dogs or dogs with unknown histories?
Puppies typically need to be fed 3-4 times a day until they are about 6 months old, then twice a day. Always follow the feeding guidelines on your puppy food bag and consult your vet for specific recommendations based on your puppy’s breed and growth rate.
What if English isn't my first language - can virtual training still work?
Your puppy can go outside to potty in your yard from day one. However, for walks in public areas or interactions with unknown dogs, it’s generally recommended to wait until they have completed their full series of vaccinations (around 16 weeks) to protect them from diseases. Always consult your veterinarian for specific advice.
How long have you been doing virtual training?
Crate training involves teaching your puppy to view their crate as a safe, comfortable den. It’s important for potty training, managing chewing, providing a safe space for your puppy, and can be invaluable for travel or vet visits. We can guide you through the process of positive crate training.
How effective is virtual dog training compared to in-person training?
It’s normal for puppies to cry initially. Ensure the crate is comfortable, in a quiet location, and that your puppy has had a potty break before bedtime. Avoid giving attention to crying, as it can reinforce the behavior. Gradually increase the time they spend in the crate during the day. Our puppy programs offer detailed strategies for successful crate training.
Can virtual training sessions be shorter than traditional in-person sessions?
It’s normal for puppies to cry initially. Ensure the crate is comfortable, in a quiet location, and that your puppy has had a potty break before bedtime. Avoid giving attention to crying, as it can reinforce the behavior. Gradually increase the time they spend in the crate during the day. Our puppy programs offer detailed strategies for successful crate training.
What technology do I need for virtual training sessions?
It’s normal for puppies to cry initially. Ensure the crate is comfortable, in a quiet location, and that your puppy has had a potty break before bedtime. Avoid giving attention to crying, as it can reinforce the behavior. Gradually increase the time they spend in the crate during the day. Our puppy programs offer detailed strategies for successful crate training.
Can virtual training help with aggressive or reactive dogs?
It’s normal for puppies to cry initially. Ensure the crate is comfortable, in a quiet location, and that your puppy has had a potty break before bedtime. Avoid giving attention to crying, as it can reinforce the behavior. Gradually increase the time they spend in the crate during the day. Our puppy programs offer detailed strategies for successful crate training.
What if my dog won't pay attention during a virtual session?
It’s normal for puppies to cry initially. Ensure the crate is comfortable, in a quiet location, and that your puppy has had a potty break before bedtime. Avoid giving attention to crying, as it can reinforce the behavior. Gradually increase the time they spend in the crate during the day. Our puppy programs offer detailed strategies for successful crate training.
How do virtual training sessions work?
It’s normal for puppies to cry initially. Ensure the crate is comfortable, in a quiet location, and that your puppy has had a potty break before bedtime. Avoid giving attention to crying, as it can reinforce the behavior. Gradually increase the time they spend in the crate during the day. Our puppy programs offer detailed strategies for successful crate training.