Virtual Dog Training
via Zoom
Even on Zoom, we can still teach pup-parents to read body language, train manners, & more.
With virtual training, we teach you the principles and processes, and coach you to practice consistently.
Recall, Basic Manners, Obedience, Leash Walking: we will demo the techniques using video, talk you through the approach, and coach you as you practice on-camera.
Anxiety, Bravery, Reactivity: while in-person training is better suited for these complex challenges, virtual training can help. We rely on you to capture video in-between sessions, and then we will help you analyze the video together on-screen. Then we demonstrate the training approaches using video, while you practice on-camera.
Virtual Training Approach
Just like with in-person training, our virtual training focuses on positive reinforcement, teaching people and dogs to understand each other.
Over zoom, it’s nearly impossible to use punishment-based training techniques, and rest assured, we never teach parents or handlers these techniques. We believe punishment is counter-productive towards reaching a state of partnership, empathy, and trust.
The concept of “no” is just as important as the concept of “yes”, but there are gentle and humane ways to establish boundaires.
Virtual Training Process
Free Consultation: just like with in-person training, we start with a free 30-min consultation over Zoom.
Training Proposal: next we send you a training plan proposal, with details on pricing, number of sessions, etc.
Week-By-Week Booking: use Acuity Scheduling to book your appointment at a day and time that works for you.
Video Capture: virtual training relies on us being able to see video of your pup exhibiting the behaviors we are working on. We ask you to record video, and we give you a secure, private folder to upload your clips. We watch and analyze them in advance of the weekly session, and then we review highlights together during the training session.
Virtual Training Sessions: virtual training sessions are 60 or 90 minutes in length. Watching and interpreting your videos helps us discuss body language. Then we demo training techniques using video. Finally, we give you a chance to practice on-camera while we provide coaching. If you have a partner who can hold the phone, we can also take the training out into the field so to speak, using the Zoom app on your phone.
Daily Practice: We’ll provide detailed step-by-step guides. But remember, a sheet of paper can’t train your pup - you get out what you put in.
Pricing
Virtual training programs vary in length, based on the complexity of the challenge.
In most cases, when our clients stick to their daily practice, goals can be achieved in 4-6 sessions.
Anxiety, Bravery and Reactivity are longer journeys, requiring even more care and consistency. We often make a lot of progress in the first 6-8 weeks, after which we can meet less frequently.
Our base pricing for virtual training is $120/hour. This includes the virtual session itself, video analysis, and a step-by-step guide for practice each week.