You are currently viewing an out of date page. We have updated our AnimalSense website. Please click here to see our new website.

One of our goals at AnimalSense is to answer as many of your questions as possible. This page was developed to answer some preliminary questions you may have about dog training and our services at AnimalSense.

What methods will you use to train my dog?

AnimalSense uses the principles of operant conditioning, particularly positive reinforcement, in our training classes. This means that we focus on teaching your dog by rewarding appropriate behavior, instead of constantly correcting your dog for mistakes. Food rewards paired with praise are used during the acquisition phase of learning and the food reward is slowly phased out as the behavior becomes more reliable; thereafter, we maintain the behavior with praise, life rewards and occasional food rewards. Training based upon harsh physical punishment or fear is NEVER an option at AnimalSense.

How do I register for classes?

There are two ways to register for classes.  For your convenience, you can submit an on-line application at any time by clicking on the "Apply now" link on our home page and filling in the required fields.  This will hold your space and save you time on the first day of class.  Alternatively, you can fill out an application at orientation or the first day of class.

What happens if I miss a class?

If your dog is unable to attend class due to injury or illness, we recommend that you attend without your dog, so you can learn the new material and even have a chance to practice with a “loaner” dog! If you must miss a class during a session, we will work with you to schedule a makeup class during the session. There are no makeups or refunds given after the session ends.

How many classes will it take to train my dog?

It depends upon your goals, your dog, and the amount of time you spend practicing. Some skills can be learned in a few minutes; other, more complex skills (such as polite leash walking) may take weeks or months to master. Younger dogs typically need a year of training in order to achieve a solid skill base and to optimize socialization. Many AnimalSense students return for advanced training classes in order to keep their dogs challenged.

Where are your classes located?

AnimalSense offers classes in two convenient locations. Most classes are held at Oak Park Canine Learning Center, in the Pet Vets Animal Hospital, located at 342 West Harrison Street in Oak Park (one block north of the Eisenhower, just east of Ridgeland). On-street parking is available on Harrison or Cuyler and our entrance is in the alley behind Pet Vets - look for the blue-green garage doors. Other classes are offered at Bow Wow Lounge, located at 945 West Dakin Street in Chicago (one block south of Irving Park Road, just east of Sheridan/Sheffield).

How much do classes cost and is a deposit required?

Most hour-long classes cost $180 for a six-week session or $153 for dogs adopted from a shelter or rescue organization. Semi-Private Lesson Class is $300 (no rescue discount applies to this offering). No advance deposit is required at this time, but the class fee must be paid by cash or check by the first day of class. You can pay at orientation, on the first day of class or by using PayPal. Note: We only accept cash or checks at class, however you may use a credit card on the PayPal system.

Is there a discount if my dog was adopted from a shelter or rescue organization?

There is a 15% discount on group classes for any dog adopted from a shelter or rescue organization, for as long as you are a student. AnimalSense is strongly committed to animal sheltering and this discount is one way we support that mission.

Is there a discount if I want to enroll my dog in more than one class?

If your dog is enrolled in two classes during the same session, there is a 50% discount on the fee for the second class.

Is there a discount if I enroll two dogs in classes?

We believe that training is an essential part of every dog's life, so we do not offer a multi-dog discount at this time.

Is there an age requirement for enrollment?

Puppies as young as 7 weeks and adult dogs of any age enjoy learning new skills.   AnimalSense has class offerings to suit all ages and skill levels so that learning is fun and enjoyable for you and your dog.

How many dogs are in each class?

Class size varies, but we strive to limit adult classes to 6-10 dogs and puppy classes to 8-12 puppies so we can provide each student with individual attention.

What class is right for my dog?

Our detailed class descriptions should help point you in the right direction, but if you are unsure about which class to take, our training staff will be happy to answer any questions. If your dog is aggressive, extremely fearful or exhibits other behavior issues, please consult with our staff so that we can best address your needs.

Are my children able to attend classes?

We encourage all members of the household to attend classes.  This gives everyone the opportunity to practice new skills with the help of our training staff.  Children as young as 7 are usually able to participate in training with some adult assistance.  In addition, AnimalSense periodically offers “Kids and Dogs” and “Moms and Dogs” classes which are specifically designed to encourage appropriate interactions between children and dogs. Please note that for safety reasons, children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring to class on the first day?

For classes you will need a six foot leash, a buckle or snap collar, some soft treats, a poop bag (for “accidents” on the way to and from class), a check or cash for your class fee, and of course, your dog! If you are using any other training equipment, such as a Gentle Leader head collar, please bring that as well. (Please note that we do not allow flexi or retractable leads in class for safety reasons.) Wear comfortable clothes and shoes and dress warmly in winter.

Do you offer clicker training classes?

An introduction to clicker training is included in our “Tricks and Clicks” class. Our other classes utilize a verbal marker (“yes!”) instead of a clicker, but individual students who are familiar with clicker training are welcome to use a clicker as long as the instructor is notified in advance and it is not disruptive to the class.

Why do you use food or treats in your training?

Dogs are just like humans and every other living creature – they “work” (or do behaviors) in order to get something they need or like (i.e., food, praise, petting, play) or to avoid something they don't like (i.e., pain). Most people do not work for free and neither do our dogs. We use treats as part of our reward-based training methods because treats are the easiest and most convenient type of reward to give in a training environment. Soft treats cut or broken up into pea-sized pieces work best for training because they are tasty and can be eaten quickly. We recommend and carry Wholesome Pet treats. You can also use hotdogs, cheese, soft dog treats, or anything your dog really likes. Avoid feeding your dog before class so your dog will be highly motivated to earn that treat!

If I train with food, will my dog work without food? Will food training ruin my relationship with my dog?

We use food as part of the learning process, first to elicit new behaviors and second to reward for performing the behaviors on cue. Once a new behavior is learned, we will teach you how to pair the food reward with praise and then “fade” the food reward, so you are relying less on treats and more on praise. We will still use treats occasionally to reward well-established behaviors in order to maintain those behaviors. Unlike punishment-based methods, reward-based training with food will not damage your relationship with your dog; to the contrary, your dog will learn quickly to earn good things by complying with your requests.

What if my dog is not motivated by food?

Experience has taught us that most dogs will work for especially tasty food rewards, although dogs who are not hungry, are very stressed or have a medical problem may be less receptive to food. Keep in mind that any reward you choose must be interesting enough to your dog to compete with distractions in the environment. This means that your dog may need tastier treats to focus at class than the treats you use for training in the living room. If your dog truly is not food-motivated or has dietary restrictions, we will use other rewards including toys, praise, petting, and life rewards to motivate your pup.

Do you offer in-home training or private lessons?

Private, one-on-one lessons for you and your dog are available in your home or at our training facilities. Private lessons provide individual obedience instruction to enhance skills learned in class, to accelerate learning, or to provide instruction for those students who are unable to attend group classes. They are perfect for the new dog owner, the busy family, and anyone else who enjoys a fast-paced, self-directed learning environment. One of our trainers will work with you to discuss training goals and expectations and formulate a training plan specifically for your dog. Lessons can be scheduled at your convenience and you are not required to purchase a block of lessons. Private lessons begin at $75/hour.

What is the difference between a private lesson and a behavior consultation?

Private lessons are intended to enhance overall obedience skills or to address specific obedience issues such as polite leash walking, jumping up, and counter-surfing (to name a few examples). Behavior consultations are designed to address behavior problems such as aggression, fearfulness, anxiety, resource guarding, or interactions with other pets (again, to name a few examples). If your dog is experiencing behavior problems, our knowledgeable staff is here to help. We will work with you to assess the situation, discuss options, and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Behavior consultations begin at $200.00 and include a detailed report of findings, treatment recommendations and follow up.

Do you use choke chains, pinch collars or prong collars in your classes?

We do not use choke chains in our classes and discourage their use because a choke chain is designed to punish your dog by cutting off its air supply. Choke chains can easily be misused and can injure your dog. We do not use prong or pinch collars in our training classes as a general rule; however, we will allow students to use them if they are fitted and used properly, and on rare occasions will recommend them as an option where appropriate for a particular dog or situation. These types of collars should never be used on a puppy.

Do you offer board-and-train or “boot camp” training?

AnimalSense does not offer board-and-train or “boot camp” style training because we strongly believe it is important for you to participate in the training process and to know precisely what methods are being used to train your dog. Ultimately, you are the dog trainer; we are here to help enhance your ability to communicate effectively with your dog.