Frequently Asked Questions

Games-based, concept training is a positive reinforcement method that uses short, purposeful games to teach your dog how to think, not just what to do. It builds core skills like focus, confidence, impulse control, calmness, and flexibility—helping your dog make better choices in everyday life.

Traditional training often emphasizes commands and repetition. Games-based training develops the underlying concepts that make those behaviors easier, like disengaging from distractions or settling calmly in new environments.

Some changes happen quickly—even within days or after a single session. More complex behavior changes take time and consistency. Just a few minutes of games each day can create lasting progress. Training should be a Fun Time, Not a Long Time!

Dogs of all ages benefit from puppies to seniors. Games are tailored to your dog’s stage of life and needs.

Games-based training can address:

• Reactivity or overexcitement
• Separation anxiety
• Lack of recall or ignoring cues
• Jumping, barking, or mouthing
• Confidence issues or fearfulness

General manners and obedience
…and more.

Yes. Concept training is especially effective for dogs with fear, anxiety, or reactivity. By building confidence and emotional resilience, we help them feel safer and more capable.

Absolutely. Games can be played anywhere—at home, out and about, in the car, or your yard. Training should be a fun time, not a long time. Short training sessions take just 3–5 minutes and fit easily into your daily routine.

Yes. We offer private coaching (in-person or online) and group classes. Private sessions are entirely tailored to your goals. Group classes help build more specific skills while addressing each dog’s needs.

Definitely, games-based training helps service, therapy, and working dogs develop confidence, focus, calmness, decision-making under pressure, and because we are using relationship-first training, we are building longevity in our companions and a desire to work.

Every experience shapes your dog’s behavior. If they practice calmness, they become calmer. If they practice reacting to every noise, they become more reactive. We guide those daily practices in the right direction—through games.

Yes, we use rewards like food, toys, touch, movement, and praise. Motivation is key—but it’s not about bribery. Rewards are part of short, purposeful games that build real-life skills.