Common Questions Dog Trainers Get—Answered!

Whether you're a first-time dog parent or have a whole pack at home, it's totally normal to have questions when it comes to dog training. At Pups on the Coast, we’ve heard it all—and we’re here to help clear things up with honest, professional answers. Here are some of the most common questions we get as dog trainers:

1. “When should I start training my dog?”

The short answer? Yesterday. But seriously—the earlier, the better. Puppies start learning from the moment they open their eyes. We recommend starting socialization and foundational training as early as 8 weeks old.

But if your dog is older? No problem. Dogs of any age can learn with the right guidance and consistency.

2. “How long will it take to train my dog?”

That depends! Training is not one-size-fits-all, and every dog learns at their own pace. Some behaviors may improve in a few sessions, while others (like leash reactivity or anxiety) may take weeks or months of consistent work.

Think of training as a journey—not a race. We’ll guide you through it, step by step.

3. “What’s the difference between basic training and behavior training?”

Great question. Basic training (may also be referred to as basic obedience) is about teaching your dog specific cues like sit, stay, and recall, and advancing these cues.

Behavior training tackles emotional and behavioral challenges like fear, aggression, reactivity, or separation anxiety.

Sometimes we work on both at the same time—because let’s face it, life with dogs is beautifully complex. Once we get to know your dog more, it helps push you in the right direction of where to start.

4. “Do you use positive reinforcement?”

Yes. Absolutely, 100%, always. We use evidence-based, force-free training methods that are grounded in learning theory and animal behavior science. This means rewarding good behavior, managing the environment, and setting your dog up for success—not using fear or punishment.

5. “Can you train my dog for me?”

We offer day training options where we work with your dog directly and then transfer the skills to you.

But here’s the deal: you’re still a crucial part of the process. Even if we do the heavy lifting, long-term success depends on consistency at home.

We’re a team—us, your dog, and you.

6. “What if my dog is aggressive?”

We’ve worked with dogs of all temperaments—including those with aggression. No judgment here.

Aggression is a form of communication, and we’ll help you understand the “why” behind the behavior, build trust, and create a customized plan for safety and progress. We take it seriously, and we walk with you through it.

7. “How do I get started?”

Easy! You can book a consultation through our website or send us a message. We’ll talk about your goals, your dog’s needs, and the best path forward.

Whether you’re dealing with a jumpy greeter or a full-blown behavior issue, we’re here to help.

Bonus: “Do you train humans too?”

Yep. Every day. 😉

Training is really about communication between you and your dog. Our goal is to give you the tools and confidence to be your dog’s best advocate and teacher.

Have more questions? Drop them in the comments or reach out directly—we love connecting with fellow dog lovers.

Because when you understand your dog, everything changes.