Policies & FAQs

All pricing and services provided are as stated on the website.

Crimson Hound does not offer free evaluations or consultations*. Unless otherwise stated, the first visit counts as lesson #1 of any package, program or class.

*Limited exceptions for rescue and shelter situations only.

Courses, packages and programs are prepaid and non-refundable. Payments accepted online through credit card or PayPal.

• Payment plans are available upon request. (Discounts do not apply to payment plans.)
• When requested, payment via check or cash is an option.
• Returned checks are subject to a $35 bank fee. 

To protect my clients, their dogs, and myself, I take precautions to prevent the spread of illness (cold, flu, COVID-19, etc.). I don’t work if I’m sick and ask clients to do the same. I follow hygiene protocols and can wear a mask if requested. As someone with asthma, I appreciate your help in keeping us all safe.

Please cancel and reschedule your session if your dog(s):

• has fleas or worms;
• has been ill in the 24 hours preceding our sessions:
• vomiting, diarrhea or not eating;
• recovering from surgery such as spay/neuter;
• diagnosed and/or taking medication for an illness such as ringworm, mange, Giardia, leptospirosis, kennel cough, Lyme disease, etc.; and/or
• is under a bite quarantine.

In general, ALL animals must be up to date (as age appropriate) for:

• DHLP – Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis and Parvovirus
• Rabies – required for all dogs 16 weeks or older
  
• Virtual-only clients are exempt from the DHLP requirements, but must still show proof of rabies vaccination.

All sessions are prepaid and non-refundable.

• In the event that the trainer determines that a dog is not appropriate for in-person sessions, virtual sessions replace in-person sessions for the remainder of the purchased package.  
• If and when the trainer terminates the service agreement, the client will receive a refund in an amount prorated for the unused portion of the package, program or course.
• No refund is given if the client terminates the service agreement or if the package expires with unused sessions remaining.

24-Hour Cancellation Policy:
Please cancel at least 24 hours in advance using the scheduling app, by text, or by email. Early notice allows me to offer the spot to another learner. Thank you!

Late Cancellation & No-Show Policy
If you cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice or are not present at the scheduled time, the session will be counted and fees will still apply. Thank you for your understanding.

Appointment Changes
Crimson Hound reserves the right to cancel or reschedule appointments when necessary. Clients will be notified as soon as possible.

Sessions canceled due to inclement weather will be rescheduled. Crimson Hound also reserves the right to cancel or reschedule appointments when necessary, with as much notice as possible.

• Within 30 miles of La Crosse: No Travel Fee (see red circle on map below)
• 30 to 60 miles from La Crosse: $35 Travel Fee
• More than 60 miles from La Crosse: Additional Travel Fees apply. Email crimsonhhoundtraining@gmail.com for more information.

In the U.S., dog trainers are not required to hold any certification. However, I’ve chosen to go above and beyond to earn professional credentials so I can provide you with the highest-quality, science-based training and behavior support.

Not all certifications are equal. Many schools issue certificates to their own students, but only a few independent organizations offer respected, standardized certifications across these levels:

• Certified Dog Trainers – Focus on basic manners, nuisance behaviors, tricks, and sports.
• Certified Behavior Consultants – Address fear, anxiety, aggression, and other complex behaviors; requires years of advanced education.
• Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists (CAAB) – Hold a PhD in behavior science or a Master’s degree plus certification from the Animal Behavior Society.
• Veterinary Behaviorists – Licensed vets with specialized post-graduate training in animal behavior.

My Credentials

My certifications required over 800 hours of hands-on dog training, recommendations from clients, colleagues, and veterinarians, and passing a rigorous exam on behavior, learning theory, and ethical best practices. I also maintain certification through continuing education to stay current with science and humane training methods.

At Crimson Hound, I do not use punishment-based tools or corrections in response to so-called “bad” behaviors. Here’s why:

Instinctual Behaviors Aren’t “Bad”

Behaviors like barking, digging, chasing, and herding are instinctual and were intentionally bred into dogs over generations. These natural behaviors can’t simply be punished away—doing so risks causing fear, stress, or lasting emotional harm.
Instead, we teach appropriate alternatives that meet your dog’s needs and fit your lifestyle.

Aggression Is Communication

Aggressive behavior is usually a sign of fear, stress, frustration, or pain—not stubbornness. It’s a form of communication. Punishing a dog for expressing discomfort often shuts down the signal without solving the problem, and can make things worse. Ethical, science-based training helps dogs feel safe and heard.

Quick Fixes Come at a Cost

Trainers offering “quick fixes” or “guaranteed results” often rely on tools like shock collars, prong collars, choke chains, or slip leads. These methods are reactive—they wait for a mistake, then punish it. They don’t address the root cause and often create new behavior problems.

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What to Expect from Crimson Hound

We take a proactive, rewards-based approach rooted in modern behavior science. Together, we’ll identify what’s driving your dog’s behavior and build a personalized training plan using ethical, positive reinforcement methods. We focus on setting your dog up for success—not fear, force, or pain.

Yes, it absolutely does. The difference in training methodology can determine whether you’re just suppressing a behavior, resolving it, or making it worse. The right methods also impact the bond you share with your dog.

At Crimson Hound, I use ethical, science-based methods. These approaches save you time, money, and frustration while bringing you and your dog closer together. It’s a win-win for both of you!

AVSAB Statement on Humane Dog Training

“Based on current scientific evidence, AVSAB recommends that only reward-based training methods are used for all dog training, including the treatment of behavior problems. Aversive training methods have a damaging effect on both animal welfare and the human-animal bond. There is no evidence that aversive methods are more effective than reward-based methods in any context. AVSAB therefore advises that aversive methods should not be used in animal training or for the treatment of behavior disorders.”

Read the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s full position statement.

I adhere to rewards-based, positive reinforcement, and low-stress training methods, believing these principles work for both humans and animals. I focus on creating a supportive, encouraging environment that promotes learning and strengthens the bond between you and your dog.

While it’s impossible (and unethical) to guarantee specific behavioral training outcomes, my clients have found success with rewards-based training methods. There are various factors—such as age, health, genetics, and environment—that can impact your dog’s behavior during and after training.

I can’t promise results, but I will work tirelessly to help you and your pet live more harmoniously together.

Yes, I carry professional and general liability insurance.

No, it is both impossible and unethical to guarantee a 100% success rate in behavior modification. Dog behavior is influenced by many factors beyond my control, including prenatal environment, age, health, genetics, and your consistency and follow-through. Most importantly, your dog is a unique, sentient being, and their behavior cannot be guaranteed.

A competent and ethical behavior professional should never promise results. However, with years of experience, I have helped many dogs and their humans live more harmoniously, and I will work closely with you to achieve the best possible outcomes. Training is an ongoing process, and dogs are always learning. Together, we’ll create a plan to modify your dog’s behavior and equip you with the tools to continue the progress long after training ends.

Group Classes Follow a One-Size-Fits-All Lesson Plan
Group classes typically follow a generic curriculum that may not suit your dog’s specific needs. Private In-Home Sessions are customized to focus on the unique challenges you and your dog are facing, giving you personalized attention and a tailored plan.

Group Classes Can Be Distracting
Many dogs struggle to focus in a group setting, especially with unfamiliar dogs and people around. The new environment can make it harder for your dog to pay attention and learn.

Training Quality Varies Widely
Dog training is a specialized skill that combines science, technique, and the ability to read each dog’s unique needs. Unfortunately, the industry is unregulated, and not all instructors have the necessary experience and knowledge. The quality of training can vary significantly between instructors and facilities.

Fearful or Anxious Dogs Aren’t Ideal for Group Classes
Dogs with anxiety or fear issues may have trouble adjusting in a new, busy environment. Group classes can set them up for failure. Issues like separation anxiety, resource guarding, or house training are best addressed in a comfortable, familiar environment—your home.

Before we begin training, it’s important to understand the difference between separation-related behaviors and true separation anxiety (SA) or isolation distress.

Separation-Related Behaviors

Does your dog bark, whine, or howl briefly when you leave? Destroy household items like shoes or pillows? Dig in the trash while you’re gone? These are common separation-related behaviors, often stemming from boredom, frustration, or mild anxiety.

These behaviors can typically be addressed through private in-home or virtual coaching sessions, where we teach your dog how to relax and cope with being alone.

⚠️ Despite what you may have heard, behaviors that only occur at home—like these—are not suited for group classes, board-and-train, or day training programs. These environments can actually worsen the issue.

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Separation Anxiety / Isolation Distress

True Separation Anxiety (SA) is a panic disorder. It is not a training problem—it’s a clinical issue that requires a different approach.

Dogs with SA do not just act out; they panic when left alone. Common symptoms include:

• Intense barking, howling, or crying until the owner returns
• Behaviors escalate or cycle rather than dissipate during the course of an absence
• Destructive escape behaviors (chewing doors, windows, or crates)
• Excessive drooling, pacing, or trembling
• Urination or defecation indoors (despite being house-trained)
• Self-injury in attempts to escape

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How I Can Help

• If your dog is showing separation-related behaviors, I can work with you through customized in-home or virtual sessions to build independence and coping skills.
• If I suspect true separation anxiety, I will refer you to a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT) or Separation Anxiety Professional (SAPro) and recommend partnering with your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist for appropriate support and medication if needed.

Recovery from separation anxiety is a slow, structured process, often done virtually with a CSAT and requires a commitment to not leaving the dog alone until they’re ready.

Dogs are never too old or too young to start learning. We can begin working with your puppy as early as 8 weeks of age.

No. I charge by the hour—not by the number of dogs. I’m happy to work with multiple dogs in a single session, and in some cases, doing so is necessary to meet your goals.

That said, working with more than one dog often means more time and practice, so you may need additional sessions to ensure each dog gets the attention and support they need.

Yes, in most cases. I regularly work with dogs who have a bite history. However, severe or complex cases may require an initial assessment before scheduling a training session.

Please note: In some situations, your training plan may include a recommendation to consult with a Veterinary Behaviorist, especially if medical or neurological factors are suspected to be contributing to the behavior.

It’s a common concern, but here’s the truth: all dogs are food motivated—they have to be, or they wouldn’t survive. The issue usually isn’t motivation, but that food is freely available every day, making it less exciting as a training reward.

I’ll help you adjust your dog’s feeding routine and show you how to turn their daily meals into fun, rewarding training opportunities.

Is Praise Enough?

Praise is great, but let’s be honest—would you keep working if your boss replaced your paycheck with a weekly thumbs-up? Probably not! Dogs are no different. They need meaningful, consistent rewards to stay motivated and learn effectively.

Food Isn’t the Only Option

While food is the easiest and most effective reward for most dogs, we can also use:

• Toys
• Play
• Access to fun activities (like going outside, greeting people, or sniffing around)

Training should be fun and rewarding—for you and your dog. Together, we’ll find the right motivators that work best for your individual dog and your lifestyle.

That can happen—but only if food isn’t used correctly.

I’ll teach you how to use food as an effective training tool, not a bribe. You’ll learn:

• When to use treats
• How to avoid making food a “requirement” for compliance
• When and how to fade out food and replace it with other meaningful rewards like praise, toys, or real-life rewards (like going for a walk)

Used properly, food helps build reliable behaviors—not dependency.

Absolutely! ALL dogs learn at every stage of their lives and behavior can always be addressed. That being said, the longer a behavior has been practiced, the more challenging it can be to address. However, with consistency and reinforcement, you will see improvement or even elimination of many problem behaviors.

Private lessons may seem like a bigger investment, but the value they offer often far outweighs the added cost. Here’s why:

✔ No Travel Required

All sessions take place in your home or virtually, saving you time and travel expenses.

✔ Flexible Scheduling

You choose the days and times that fit your schedule—no need to rearrange your life around class times.

✔ Fully Customized to You

Your training plan is tailored specifically to your goals, your dog’s needs, and your pace. No cookie-cutter lesson plans.

✔ Ideal for Anxious or Fearful Dogs

Your dog gets to stay in their safe, familiar environment. Virtual options eliminate the stress of having a stranger enter your home entirely.

✔ Address Home-Specific Issues

Some behaviors—like guarding people or items, separation anxiety, or conflicts between pets—happen only at home and can’t be effectively addressed in a class or boarding setting.

✔ Interactive and Hands-On

You’ll get real-time feedback as you practice techniques, plus answers to all your questions—no waiting your turn in a group.

✔ Set Your Dog Up for Success

I’ll help you implement a management system to prevent unwanted behaviors while we work together on modifying them.

✔ 100% Focused on You

Your session is all about you and your dog. You get my full attention, start to finish.

✔ Extra Support Between Sessions

All programs include customized homework plans, helpful handouts or video tutorials, and follow-up support to keep you moving forward.

All sessions take place in your home or neighborhood—I come to you. Crimson Hound does not have a training facility for in-person drop-offs or on-site sessions. This allows us to work in the environment where your dog is most comfortable and where many behaviors naturally occur.

While the Initial Assessment Session is an essential and informative part of my training programs, it’s not a complete training plan on its own. It’s just the starting point for your journey with your dog.

To achieve lasting success, additional coaching sessions are necessary to help you implement what you’ve learned into your daily life with your dog.

During the Initial Assessment we will:

• Discuss your goals for your dog
• Review their behavior history
• Analyze the root causes of their behaviors
• Develop a preliminary training plan
• Begin working on foundational skills to build on in future sessions

Why Ongoing Sessions Are Necessary

Learning new skills or changing old habits takes time and consistency. Depending on how long a behavior has been in place, it may take a while to replace it with a more desirable one. This requires patience, repetition, and regular coaching.

My coaching programs are designed to offer flexibility while ensuring you receive ongoing support throughout your training journey.

Exceptions: Single Sessions for Special Circumstances

While I typically don’t offer single pay-as-you-go sessions, I do offer single session consults in certain circumstances. If you’re interested in scheduling a consult for your dog, please reach out to discuss your needs.

For Rescues and Shelters

I also offer FREE single-session consults and discounted follow-up sessions for local rescues and shelters, including support for their resident dogs, fosters, and new adopters who are struggling. Please contact me for more details.

Your journey begins as soon as you purchase a training package from my website. You’ll receive a confirmation emailthat includes two important links:

1. Scheduling Link – Use this to book your sessions at times that work for you.
2. Behavior History Form – Please complete this form thoroughly and honestly. The more I know, the better I can help you and your dog.

Keep this email! You’ll need the scheduling link to set up your sessions.

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What to Expect in Each Step of the Process

Initial Assessment Session

This first session is all about learning: your goals, your dog’s history, behavior patterns, and needs. I’ll create a customized training plan, introduce foundational skills, and help you implement management strategies to set you and your dog up for success.

Follow-Up Coaching Sessions

These sessions focus on:

• Practicing and refining skills
• Troubleshooting what’s not working
• Adjusting the plan as your dog progresses
  After each session, you’ll receive custom notes, videos, and homework to support your progress.

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What Makes Crimson Hound Different

Your training plan goes beyond obedience—we’ll address communication, enrichment, games, management, and behavior modification. While we may teach new behaviors, much of our work will focus on helping you understand your dog’s needs and making thoughtful, compassionate changes—sometimes that means you’ll learn new things too!

I use only modern, ethical, rewards-based methods—never force, fear, or intimidation. That means:
🚫 No choke chains, slip leads, prong collars, e-collars, squirt bottles …

If needed, I may recommend:

• A consultation with a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist
• A referral to a trusted trainer who may be a better fit for your dog’s specific needs

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You’re Not Alone

Throughout your journey, I’ll be here to support you—answering questions, guiding your progress, and celebrating your successes. This is a partnership, and I’m committed to helping you and your dog thrive together.

 

Every client begins their journey with a 90-minute Initial Assessment Session (60 minutes for puppies). This session sets the foundation for everything we’ll do together moving forward.

Understanding Your Dog

We’ll take a holistic look at your dog’s behavior, history, and environment to better understand why they’re doing what they’re doing. Often, so-called “bad behaviors” are simply your dog expressing natural instincts or needs—and part of our job is learning how to meet those needs in ways that work for both of you.

Setting Goals & Building a Plan

We’ll:

• Review your goals
• Identify your dog’s strengths and challenges
• Uncover any miscommunication between you and your dog
• Begin shaping a realistic, custom training and behavior plan that balances your needs with your dog’s well-being

This plan goes beyond traditional training—it includes management strategies, communication skills, enrichment, and clear, compassionate structure. It may also involve some learning and compromise on your part, as we build goals that are both achievable and respectful of who your dog is.

Getting Started

We’ll introduce foundational training skills during this first session—tools you’ll use throughout the training process to support your dog’s growth and success.

If you’ve purchased a Private In-Home Training Package for a dog who is fearful, reactive, or shows aggressive behaviors, your initial session will be conducted virtually—and here’s why:

Many dogs with fear or aggression issues feel more anxious or on edge when a stranger enters their home. In these cases, starting in person can push the dog over their stress threshold, making learning impossible and increasing the risk of rehearsing the very behaviors we’re trying to change.

Why Virtual First?

• It avoids triggering or escalating unwanted behavior
• Your dog stays relaxed and focused in their safe environment
• We can focus on building a plan without added stress
• You’ll get clear management and safety protocols right from the start
• You’ll begin practicing foundational skills before the first in-person session

This approach sets everyone—you, your dog, and me—up for a much more productive and successful in-person experience later on.

To get the most out of your session for you and your dog, please have the following ready:

• A well-fitting harness (or collar)
• A 4–6 foot leash (no retractable leashes, please)
• High-value treats (think cheese, chicken, hot dogs—small and easy to chew)
• Treat pouch (optional but highly recommended)
• Notebook and pen to jot down notes, progress, or questions
• A list of questions or concerns you’d like to cover

🔔 Any additional equipment will be noted in your course description or communicated ahead of time.

Need help choosing gear?
Visit the Equipment and Supplies page for recommended items, links, and coupon codes.

To make the most of your time and investment, here are a few tips:

📝 Come Prepared with Questions

Write down any questions or concerns ahead of time so you don’t forget to ask during your session.

🎥 Share Video Footage

If you’re seeking help with a specific behavior, video can be incredibly helpful. Old video footage is perfect. Do not attempt to put your dog into a situation where he may repeat a dangerous behavior..

📬 Review Your Follow-Up Email

After each session, I’ll send a personalized follow-up that includes:

• Session notes
• Homework
• Optional reading or video resources
  Be sure to review and refer back to these between sessions to stay on track!

Your progress happens between sessions—through practice, consistency, and reflection. Here’s how to make the most of that time:

📝 Follow Your Homework Plan

After each session, you’ll receive a customized training plan that may include:

• Step-by-step homework
• Video tutorials
• Recommended readings
  These tools are designed to guide your practice and keep you on track.

⏱️ Practice—But Keep It Short

Dogs learn through repetition and consistency. Aim for several short training sessions (5–10 minutes) each day. This keeps your dog engaged and prevents burnout.

✅ Set Your Dog Up for Success

• Always end sessions on a positive note while your dog is still having fun.
• If either of you starts to feel frustrated, take a break and try again later.
• Remember: progress happens in baby steps. If something feels too hard, scale back and try a simpler version first.

🌎 Practice in Different Locations

Just because your dog understands a cue in the living room doesn’t mean they’ll understand it in the yard or at the park. Help your dog generalize skills by practicing in new environments.

📓 Keep a Training Journal

Track what you practiced, what went well, and where you had trouble. This not only shows your progress over time, but also helps you remember questions for your next session.

Yes. Extend any package by 2 weeks if you purchase within 7 days of the final session of your current package.

Refresher sessions are available for any clients.

Yes—virtual training is highly effective, and many clients prefer it for the convenience, flexibility, and reduced stress on their dog.

Even though all sessions are one-on-one, virtual coaching offers the same personalized support and guidance as in-person training. You’ll still receive a customized plan, expert feedback, and follow-up resources tailored to your dog’s needs.

Virtual sessions are just as effective as in-person training—sometimes even more so—and they come with unique benefits:

No Travel Required

Live too far for in-home training or don’t have a facility nearby? No problem—virtual sessions bring expert training directly to your home.

Fully Interactive

These aren’t pre-recorded classes. I’ll demonstrate skills with my own dogs, and then guide you step-by-step as you practice with your dog in real time.

Behavior Happens at Home

Many behavior issues—like resource guarding, house training problems, or separation-related behaviors—happen only at home. Virtual training lets us address those concerns in the exact environment where they occur.

A Safe Space for Fearful or Reactive Dogs

Dogs who are fearful or reactive often struggle in new environments or with strangers. Virtual training allows us to work together without triggering stress, so your dog stays calm, focused, and ready to learn.

Virtual sessions are easy to join with just a few basic tools:

🌐 Internet Access

A reliable internet connection is essential for smooth video and audio during your session.

📱 Device with a Camera

You can join from a computer, tablet, or smartphone—as long as it has a working camera and internet access.

🎥 Tripod (Optional but Recommended)

Using a tripod helps keep your device stable so I can clearly observe your dog’s behavior and your training technique.

💻 Zoom

We’ll meet using Zoom, a free and easy-to-use video conferencing platform. It works on nearly all devices and operating systems.
👉 If you’re new to Zoom, you can review the basics here.

Taking a few simple steps before your session will help everything run smoothly—for both you and your dog!

📍 Choose the Right Location

• Quiet & Distraction-Free: Pick a calm space with minimal noise, people, or pets in the background.
• Well-Lit: Natural light is great—just avoid having a window or bright light directly behind you, which can make it hard for me to see you clearly.
• Room to Move: Make sure you have enough floor space to move and practice with your dog comfortably.

💻 Set Up Your Equipment

• Camera Placement: Position your camera so I can see both you and your dog during training exercises.
• Internet Connection: Confirm you have a strong Wi-Fi signal in your training area.
• Stay Charged: Zoom can drain your battery—keep your device plugged in during your session.
• Test in Advance: Try out your equipment beforehand to make sure everything (camera, audio, internet) is working properly.

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Taking these steps will help you get the most out of your session. Need help setting up? Just ask—I’m happy to guide you through it!

Once you’ve signed up for a virtual session, here’s how to join:

1. Check Your Email: You’ll receive an email with a link to your Zoom session.
2. Join the Session: Click on the link a few minutes before your scheduled time. Your device should automatically open and download Zoom.
   • If prompted, click ‘Open’ or ‘Allow’ to proceed with the download and installation (depending on your device).
3. Wait in the Virtual Waiting Room: You’ll be placed in a waiting room until the session starts. I’ll admit you as soon as class begins.

To make the most out of your training session, here are some tips:

Have Supplies Ready:

• Keep treats and a leash nearby so you don’t have to leave the session to get them.

Pre-session Potty Break:

• Take your dog outside for a quick potty break before the session begins to avoid interruptions.

Provide Enrichment:

• Have an enrichment activity on hand to keep your dog entertained during breaks (e.g., snuffle mat, frozen Kong, or Lickimat).

Create a Calm Environment:

• If you plan on taking notes or watching demonstrations, it may help to have a crate or use a tether to keep your dog in a designated spot.
• If you have other pets, try to keep them in a separate area to avoid distractions.

Avoid a Full Meal:

• Don’t feed your dog a full meal right before class. A hungry dog is more likely to work for treats!

Have Plenty of Treats:

• Make sure you have plenty of high-value treats available. Some dogs may be fine with kibble in a low-distraction environment, but others may need high-value treats like soft treats, cheese, or hot dog to stay motivated.