1. How long have you been in business?

K-9 Companions: 30 years as of June 2009. These are actual years as a business. We are not counting our years in the US K-9 Corp., or training as a youth. We are not combining years of experience with our staff. K-9 Companions began as a business in 1979.

Many people attempt to inflate their years in business so that you don't know that they are just starting out.  They will site their time working for someone else, their experience as a youth, or combine their years with staff. Why do this? Because most dog trainers go out of business in the first 5 years. Be sure to get the correct answer to this question so that you will be able to judge whether or not the trainer will be there for you next year.

2. What type of methods do you use?  

K-9 Companions: At K-9 Companions we use positive reinforcement, motivation, and Operant Conditioning. We do not kick, hit, hang, or shock dogs.  We find what motivates your dog such as praise, treat, toy, and positive reinforcement.  We will correct your dog but never abuse your dog.  There is a big difference.

There are some trainers that use Aversion as a base method of training. This means that the philosophy is "Do it or you will pay."  This creates a dog with a squelched spirit. This is not what you want in a training method. At K-9 Companions when you come for a consultation you will see the trainers training and witness the methods used.
   
 3. What kind of assurance do you have
that you will be here for me long term?

K-9 Companions:  Our length of time in business and the fact that we own our facility are both factors that should make you feel secure. You will know where we are and how to get in touch with us at all times.

We all know how frustrating it can be to call and get a machine or voice mail.  At K-9 Companions we are available by phone from 9-5 week days and 8-12 on Saturday to answer your questions and let you know how your dog is doing.  You are assured that someone is with your dog from 7am to 9pm, 7 days per week and the owners live on the property. The dogs sleep inside in a temperature controlled room.