Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the questions that are frequently asked to the instructors of All Dawgs Training Services. If you do not see our question listed, please contact us by email or by phone at (518) 831-9192.



Q: When do I need to start training my new puppy?

A: Training can start as soon as your new puppy arrives home. It is a great time to instill great habits (not jumping, walking nicely on leash, etc). All Dawgs Training Services offers Puppy Kindergarten for puppies from 8 weeks to 8 months old. Check our our class section to learn more about these classes and the start of the next session.


Q: Can my family help train our dog?

A: Yes! All Dawgs Training Services encourages everyone who will want to train to be involved. Unfortunately, due to space constraints, we must limit extra people attending classes to one (other than the person participating in class.) A parent must attend with children. All Dawgs Training Services has some great handouts for children. Please ask about them.


Q: How often and how long should I train?

A: Puppies and dog just starting out in training have shorter attention spans. It is better to train several times a day for about five minutes. for example, train in the morning before work or school and then again in the evening for about five minutes each. This way will have both you and your dog on the road to success!


Q: What type of equipment do I need?

A: There are lots of different training equipment on the market and it can be quite confusing. For various reasons, recommend buckle collars (most likely your dog's regular collar), prong collars and martingales collars. All Dawgs Training Services sells both prong and martingale collars. check out our equipment page for more information. Prong collars are not sold without a fitting.

All Dawgs Training Services also recommends a four to six-foot leash (made of nylon, cotton or leather). We do not recommend retractable or "flexi" leashes for training.



Q: Why do we use treats?

A: Dogs need a "paycheck" to let them know they have responded correctly. Treats are a quick and easy way to give them their paycheck. If your dog would rather play with a toy instead of getting a treat, that will work too.


Q: What kind of treat should we use?

A: All treats are not created equally! We suggest small and soft treats. Treats should be NO LARGER THAN the nail on your pinky finger. Check out our treat pyramid. Our favorite training treats include cheese sticks and hot dogs.


Q: If I use "people food," will my dog bed from the table?

A: No. Your dog will beg from the table (or other areas) if you feed him from those places. We suggest training the dog to hang out in his crate or bed at meal time. Right before you serve dinner, give him a good treat (it should be bigger than the treats used during your training session) after he goes in his crate. Done often enough, your dog will run to his crate or bed at dinnertime!


Q: What if my dog will only do things when I have treats? When can I stop using them?

A: As your dog is learning new behaviors, you can expect them only do them for their "paycheck." All Dawgs Training Services will teach you the proper way to wean off treats. However, you should continue to reward them randomly to maintain the behaviors.


Q: Will my dog get fat?

A: Unfortunately, there is a problem with obese and overweight dogs in this country (just as in people.) We want you to keep your dog fit and trim (and around for a long time.) Since we want to make sure your dog receives their training rewards, if you notice your dog gaining weight, we suggest cutting back on their kibble. Of course, consult your vet for specific recommendations.