Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers the most common questions about dog training, Kathleen’s approach, and how to get started. If you don’t see your question here, please get in touch.
What areas do you serve in Colorado?
Cosmic Dog Training is based in Lafayette, CO, and serves Boulder County and the northern Denver area, including Louisville, Broomfield, Erie, and Westminster. Virtual training is available anywhere.
Do you offer puppy training classes in Lafayette, CO?
Yes. Puppy training classes in Lafayette are available for dogs under six months. Classes build confidence, focus, and real-world skills using positive reinforcement, with the goal of preventing behavior issues before they start.
What types of behaviors can this training help with?
Games-based training can help with reactivity, separation anxiety, leash pulling, jumping, barking, fearfulness, lack of recall, resource guarding, and general manners. If you do not see your dog’s specific challenge listed, please ask. We have likely helped with it.
What is games-based concept training?
Games-based concept training is how science-based principles are put into practice. Short, purposeful games 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. Sessions are fun, fast, and designed to fit into your daily routine.
What is science-based dog training?
Science-based dog training applies current behavioral research to how dogs learn. The focus is on positive reinforcement, emotional well-being, and building real skills, rather than punishment or corrections. Kathleen holds advanced certifications from Absolute Dogs and is completing a bachelor’s degree in Canine Behaviour through Canine Behaviour College, keeping her training methods current with the latest research.
How is games-based concept training different from other dog training methods?
Most dog training focuses on teaching commands and managing behavior. Games-based concept training develops the underlying skills, like disengaging from distractions, settling calmly in new environments, and choosing to check in with you rather than react to the world.
Every session at Cosmic Dog Training includes a behavior assessment, so Kathleen understands what is causing your dog’s behavior. From there, a training plan is built around your dog’s specific triggers and history rather than a standard curriculum.
Is positive reinforcement dog training effective?
Yes. Positive reinforcement is one of the most well-researched training approaches available. It builds trust and lasting behavior change without fear or punishment, and it works for dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments.
Do you offer in-home training or group classes?
Both are available. Group classes are great for building foundational skills alongside other dogs in a structured environment. Private training is better suited for specific behavior challenges, owners who prefer personalized attention, or dogs who do better working in their own home or out in the world.
Do you work with reactive or aggressive dogs?
Yes. Every training session starts with an assessment of what’s driving your dog’s behavior. For reactivity, anxiety, fear, or aggression, Kathleen builds a plan around your dog’s specific triggers and needs. Severely reactive dogs often do better in private or virtual sessions than in a group setting. If you are not sure which is the right fit, a free phone consult is the best place to start..
What age dog is this training suitable for?
Dogs of all ages benefit, from puppies to seniors. Games are tailored to your dog’s stage of life, energy level, and specific needs.
Is this training suitable for service or working dogs?
Yes. Games-based training helps service, therapy, and working dogs develop confidence, focus, calmness, and decision-making under pressure. Because the approach is relationship-first, it builds both longevity and a genuine desire to work.