Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Teamworks General Questions
Puppy Questions
Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Questions
Therapy Dog Questions
Agility Classes Questions
In-Home Consultation Questions

Teamworks General Questions

I just got a dog…which class?

Is your dog 8 weeks to 6 months of age? If so, you should probably consider a Puppy Class. Has your dog already taken a puppy class? Consider our Puppy Confidence & Agility Class. Is your dog over 6 months of age but needs some socialization? Consider our Puppy Confidence & Agility Class. Is your dog over 12 months and needs some manners training? Try our Canine Good Citizen Class. Does your dog have all of the basic Canine Good Citizen skills, but needs to practice them around distractions? Take a look at our Distraction Proofing Class. Has your dog already passed the Canine Good Citizen test? You are eligible to take the Pre-Agility class, Intro to Barn Hunt class, Intro to Scent Work class, Intro to Tracking class, Flyball classes, or the Therapy Dog class.

Do you accept antibody titers?

Yes. Antibody titers (the amount of antibody to a particular virus that a dog has in its “immune system memory”) can be done instead of vaccinations at your veterinarian’s office. The veterinarian will draw blood and send it off for testing. The results will show whether your dog has enough “antibody” (which is what is produced when we vaccinate dogs) to protect against disease. You can send us the titer report in lieu of vaccination records.

Other family members in class?

Sure! Guests are always welcome to come watch our group classes*. However, for the sake of consistency for the dog, we ask that you choose one “primary” handler to actually work with the dog in every class (a spouse or a child between the age of 8-18 may sign up as the “assistant” and also attend class to help the primary handler). For best results in the first class a dog takes, choose the person the dog already “looks up to” the most to be the primary handler in class. With this person there, the dog will best be able to focus on the tasks and be less worried about distractions. Then, that person can help other members of the family train the dog at home (where there will be less distractions). Especially during the period of time when the dog is learning, it is very important that the person training the dog be very consistent with commands and training; this is the reason for having a primary adult handler. (There is also a legal requirement for a parent to accompany anyone under the age of 18. Please note that children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by another adult in class so that the primary handler can focus on training the dog.) * Please note that only adult handlers are allowed in our Fearful Fidos, Reactive Dogs, and Leash Manners & Polite Greetings classes due to the nature of the behavior of the dogs in the class.

Should I enroll immediately?

Actually, that’s the most common thought of new dog owners — and the desire to get started off on the right foot is certainly to be commended! While that might be a good idea for a puppy, it is much more beneficial with a rescue dog to wait at least one month to give the dog time to adjust to his new home environment before coming to class. During this time, you and the dog will get to know each other…and the dog will come to see you as his “pack”. This way, when he comes to the new and exciting environment of class for the first time, he has a familiar face to look to for guidance…you. As it turns out, the CGC class usually fills up at least one month ahead of time. So, if you enroll now, you’ll be ready to take the class in a month or so.

What is clicker training?

Clicker training is a type of precise tool used in positive reinforcement training that can allow you to train specific behaviors at a distance from your dog. Our Puppy and Canine Good Citizen classes offer instruction in clicker training, but clicker training is not required. Clicker training is very useful in agility training, flyball training, scent work, and treibball training.

Why are there age minimums?

The Puppy Class is designed for dogs that are still in the formative stages of life. During this stage of development, puppies need lots of socialization and exposure to many different people, places, and things. It is very helpful for them to also learn beginning obedience and to bond with their owners. These elements are designed into the Puppy class. There is an age maximum in this class of 6 months.

The CGC class will focus on training dogs in their adolescence. Teaching a puppy younger than 6 months is very different and usually much more straight-forward than teaching an adolescent dog. Puppies normally follow humans readily and are very dependent on them. Many time new dog owners marvel at what a great puppy they have and then all of a sudden one day, there’s a different dog at the end of the leash. Dogs in adolescence are usually experimenting with rebellion and leadership challenge. They seem to care more about impressing other dogs than they care about following their owners around anymore. Not surprisingly, most dogs in animal shelters are surrendered during this period — between 6 months and 2 years of age. Having dogs at two very different developmental stages in class would decrease the benefit derived from this class for all. For this reason, we have designed the Puppy Class and the CGC class to cater to the dogs’ developmental stage. The age minimum of the CGC class is 6 months because its designed for adolescent dogs.  The Puppy Confidence and Agility Class is a great class for puppies older than 6 months, but less than a year old, as it allows some socialization, but the focus is on building confidence in the “tweener” puppy.

The Distraction Proofing class stresses distraction training and builds on the level of confidence gained from the Beginner basics. The class involves lots of noises and movement and having other dogs nearby. For this type of training, the dog should be mature enough to handle distractions. There is also a developmental fear period in dogs at around 10 months that can cause some dogs to react oddly to common distractions, like a mechanical toy. For this reason, it is important that dog owners be aware of this stage and be willing to work through this period with their dogs. Distraction Proofing class will provide the format to help owners work through the fear period, as well as the other common issues of adolescence.

For the Agility classes, there are also age minimums. Most dogs have bones, joints, and tendons in their legs that are still growing and forming until they are 18 months of age. For this reason, there are organizations in which dogs can’t even compete in agility until they are 18 months. Injuries that occur while the dog’s growth plates are still forming can cause serious and irreparable damage. It is highly recommended that dogs do not jump their full shoulder height until they are 18 months of age. Thus, we ask that dogs be 7 months of age to take the Pre-Agility class (where we do no more than half height jumping) and 1 year of age to take the Novice level class (where dogs jump full height).

Proof of vaccinations?

There are several diseases for which all dogs should be protected against. Rabies is a zoonotic disease (meaning it can be passed from animals to people) and can be fatal to both. Parvo virus is an extremely tough virus that can live almost anywhere in the environment for years. When contracted by a dog, it destroys the dog’s intestines, often leading to death. Since there are so many dogs coming through our building, we must make sure that every one of them is protected against the most dangerous, but preventable, canine diseases — Rabies, Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvo virus. Yearly Bordetella vaccines and the Canine Influenza vaccine are highly recommended. Any type of print out or statement indicating the dog’s vaccination record is acceptable. Please send us a photocopy, though, so we can keep it on file. Once you’ve sent in one copy, you only need to send us updates. Please note: if you are registering for the Puppy class, you may bring your most recent copy of vaccinations to the first class. Please send us a copy of what your puppy currently has with your registration. We MUST have proof of rabies vaccination due to insurance regulations, but will accept it as per veterinarian’s protocol.

What training methods are used?

Excellent question! As a dog owner, you should be concerned about the training methods that are used in class. We use positive reinforcement training in this class. We start off by SETTING THE DOG UP FOR SUCCESS an rewarding the dog for the right behavior — NOT by setting the dog up to fail and punishing the dog. While most people say “I don’t want my dog to pull on a leash”, they might not know what to say when you ask “Well, exactly what do you want your dog to do instead?” The key is to define, in black and white, the exact behavior the dog should be doing and to associate that behavior with lots of rewards. The dog figures it out, the tail wags, and an understanding between the dog and the handler happens. With increased communication and humane leadership techniques, the relationship between the dog and the handler strengthens. We don’t use fear, intimidation or inhumane physical force methods because these methods escalate aggression and cause the relationship between the dog and handler to break down. While we do use toys and treats, we also teach you how to wean the dog off of receiving treats for every behavior. We also adopt a “work-to-eat/work-to-play” philosophy that lets the dog understand that it can earn its rewards in life by being obedient.

Is my dog too old to learn?

As long as your dog is in good health, there isn’t any reason an old dog can’t learn new tricks. In fact, many times the older dogs do quite well because they are more self-confident. For this reason there is no age maximum for the Canine Good Citizen classes. However, the maximum age to participate in agility depends on a dog’s health and state of being, particularly as far as the limbs, back and joints are concerned. If your dog is over the age of 7 years old or has health problems, you should seek approval from your veterinarian before starting agility classes.

What about females in heat?

Females in heat will get the attention of every dog in class – male and female. Generally, all dogs behave very differently around females in heat and will be extremely distracted by her. Moreover, females in heat can leave scents behind that will distract dogs for many days forward. We ask that you leave dogs in heat at home. Under these circumstances, we’d be happy to reschedule you to a future class at no additional charge.

Why the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) requirement?

We have a Canine Good Citizen test requirement for some of our classes, like the agility, barn hunt, scent work, and therapy dog classes. The Canine Good Citizen test is a standardized test for dogs that is consistent across the country. Canine Good Citizens are able to demonstrate obedience basics – sit/stay, down/stay, come when called, walk on a loose leash around mild distractions, sit politely for petting, pass a neutral dog calmly. These are the basic skills needed before entering the more advanced classes at Teamworks.

What if I need to cancel a class?

We understand that life happens. Please review our refund policy in our waiver as stated below. Then, please fill out a cancellation request.

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Puppy Questions

What is a typical course progression for a puppy?

Typically, puppies 12 weeks to 6 months of age start with a Puppy Class. After that, many puppies enjoy the Puppy Agility and Confidence Class. After your dog over 6 months of age you can take our Canine Good Citizen Class. Next, to really proof the basic skills, handlers love our Distraction Proofing Class. After your dog has passed the Canine Good Citizen test you can enroll him in CGC Out on the Town for more proofing to real-life situations.  You are also eligible to enroll in Agility classes, Tracking classes, Flyball classes, Scent Work class, Tricks class, or the Therapy Dog class. Please see our package deals to help save you money on your puppy’s education.

Are puppies allowed in class before they receive a rabies vaccination?

Yes. However, your puppy should be vaccinated for rabies as soon as your vet allows. By law in North Carolina, puppies can receive their rabies vaccination no sooner than 12 weeks and no later than 4 months of age (as per Department of Agriculture regulations). Rabies is a deadly virus to both dogs and humans that can lay dormant (with the animal showing no symptoms) for up to a year. Rabies is transmitted from saliva to mucous membranes. This means that an infected puppy kissing someone in the face could transmit the disease. Although the likelihood of incidence is very small, puppy vaccinations should still be taken seriously. We highly recommend owners bring their puppies to as many places as possible when they are under 12 weeks. However, for the puppy’s safety, it is best to carry the puppy at that age. Parvo virus is a deadly virus to dogs and lives in the soil. Puppies are not fully protected from Parvo virus until they complete their vaccination series. This series is often completed about 12-16 weeks. Thus, for your safety and your puppy’s safety, be sure to stay on schedule for all vaccinations!

What if the breeder vaccinated my dog?

Please ask your breeder to sign the form provided with the application. Breeders are not allowed to give rabies vaccinations by law, though, and you will also need a Rabies vaccination form from your veterinarian.

What if my puppy is scheduled to be spayed or neutered during the month of a class?

If you schedule your puppy’s surgery for the day after class, typically, most puppies will be recovered and ready for class the next week. If, for some reason there are complications from surgery and your puppy is not able to attend class, please let your instructor know.

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Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Questions

What are the Class Objectives?

The class is based upon the Canine Good Citizen Goals:

  • Sit / Stay and Down / Stay
  • Come When Called
  • Walk on a Loose Leash Without Pulling and Around Distractions (other dogs, people, noises, objects)
  • Accept a Friendly Stranger and Sit Calmly for Petting
  • Stay with a Friendly Stranger while the Handler is out of Sight (without showing signs of separation anxiety)
  • Accept Handling and Distractions Without Showing Shyness or Fear

In the process of teaching the basics of these exercises, you will also learn hand signals, dog “tricks”, and positive reinforcement techniques like targeting. We will also provide help with problem behaviors.

What if I have already taught my dog to sit and to lay down?

That’s great! Many people have begun to teach these commands before they come to class. However, most people taking the Canine Good Citizen class say that their dog only sits for as long as the dog wants to, and then it gets up. In Canine Good Citizen class, we will teach your dog to stay until you release it. There are other dogs who can do all of the commands at home, but not in the presence of other people and other dogs. Sure, the dog can sit at home in the quiet kitchen….but can he sit and stay at the vet’s office or the park? If this is the case, you could consider taking the Distraction Proofing class if you dog knows the basics (including stay) already.

What’s the difference between the Puppy Class and the CGC class?

The CGC class focuses on the objectives of the Canine Good Citizen test. It is designed for the adolescent dog who has started to have “selective hearing”…meaning the dog comes when it wants to come, sits when it wants to sit. This is a normal developmental characteristic of adolescence — essentially, the dog is now in his “teens”. This is why the minimum age for the CGC class is 6 months. Most dogs don’t reach adolescence until 6 months, although it varies with breed and by individual. The Puppy Class is designed for the dog between 3 months and 6 months. Generally, puppies in this stage are still very obedient because they are very dependent on their owners — just like small children are. During this stage of development, it is critical that puppies have socialization with other dogs so that they learn to communicate in “dog language” with other dogs. By the same token, it is important that owners bond with puppies and that puppies learn basic obedience during this time.

What’s the difference between the CGC & Distraction Proofing classes?

The CGG class assumes that the dog really doesn’t know the commands “come”, “sit”, and “down” very well. It is a perfect first class or a next class after Puppy Kindergarten. The Beginner class includes a Canine Good Citizen test at the end but is really focused on making sure the dog really understands the basics.

The Distraction Proofing class assumes the dog will obey the commands “come”, “sit”, and “down”, but maybe not always in the presence of distractions. It is a perfect follow-up class to the CGC class and will prepare the dog and handler to pass the Canine Good Citizen test with flying colors.

If I have 2 dogs, can I put them in the same class?

Experience shows that two dogs from the same “pack” do much better if enrolled in separate classes, especially for the first class they take. The goal of this class is to strengthen the relationship of the handler and the dog. With the other doggie “pack-mate” present, and in the presence of other people and dogs, the two dogs are much more likely to be focused on each other and pack dynamics. You and your dog will get much more out of the class if you enroll each dog in a separate class where each dog will get 100% of your attention…which is what you want back from your dog.

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Therapy Dog Questions

What is the minimum age for a person to become a registered therapy dog handler?

Handlers between 10 years and 18 years of age can be certified with 4 Paws Therapy organization, but need to be accompanied in class and on actual visits by an adult.

Dogs should be one year of age to take the 4 Paws Therapy assessment. They should also have lived with the handler for a minimum of 6 months.

Why do we have to have a CGC title to enroll in the Therapy Dog class?

Yes. To be sure that all of the dogs in the class have the same basic skills, your dog must have a CGC title to take the Therapy Dog Class. The class goals will assume you and your dog are able to perform all of these objectives and then will build upon them to teach you more advanced skills needed for the Therapy environment.

If I’m pretty sure my dog will pass the Canine Good Citizen test, do I have to take the CGC class first, or can I just be tested?

We’d be happy to evaluate you and your dog for the Canine Good Citizen test for a minimal charge.  Please sign up online to make arrangements. However, if you decide your dog might need to brush up on one or two skills, please consider our Distraction Proofing class.

What if I’m not sure my dog will be the “perfect” therapy dog?

No dog is completely perfect in every situation. There are as many different types of therapy environments as there are types of dogs and handlers. What we will focus on in the class is figuring out what your dog’s potential strengths and weaknesses are, and helping you match your skills as a team to the right type of therapy environment. Please see our videos for examples of therapy dog behavior.

Do I have to take the Therapy Dog class before getting evaluated?

You must take the Therapy Dog class at least one time with your first therapy dog. In the Therapy Dog class, we will introduce intense therapy-environment distractions like working around medical equipment, positioning techniques, and visitation skills. We will also speak on topics like infection control and special patient populations. You will receive a comprehensive home-study manual and information on therapy dog programs in the local area. You can sign up for a class online or by emailing our office at teamworkshelp@gmail.com.

What if I have two dogs I’d like to have certified?

Additional dogs certified at an extra charge per dog. Rules specify though, that you may only visit with one dog at a time and only certified handlers may take the dog on visits. Each handler must take the Therapy Dog class at least one time.

Once my dog is certified, can he occasionally visit with my spouse or other family member instead of myself?

Dogs and handlers are evaluated as a team. If you would like your spouse or friend to fill in for you occasionally, that person should also take the class and then take the evaluation with your dog. Additional teams are certified at an extra charge per team.

What benefits do I receive from becoming a member of an organization like 4 Paws Therapy?

You will receive an identification card. You will also receive supplemental liability insurance, as well as help and support, should an incident occur. You will have someone to talk to about a particular visit or concern. More than anything else, being a member of an accredited organization assures all volunteers that therapy dog programs will continue to be allowed and supported in the local area. Realizing this, an increasing number of facilities are starting to require certification for dogs and handlers.

What is the difference between therapy organizations and why do you offer the 4 Paws Therapy evaluation?

Most certifying therapy organizations do not require that the handler and dog take a preparation class. 4 Paws feels the preparation class is very important for the first-time around handler. 4 Paws  values its volunteers and provides a complete and user-friendly program. Certification with the 4 Paws Therapy program allows you to visit as a part of a therapy program (working with an Occupational or Physical Therapist) as well as for just simple companionship. Consequently, the 4 Paws Therapy screening contains more elements and certification is given in “skill levels” so that teams are matched to therapy environments properly. Also, the 4 Paws Therapy program requires a team to be re-tested every two years to assure that the team’s skills are still at the same level. Since dogs can change behaviorally over the course of time, becoming more resilient or less tolerant, this re-screening has proven itself to be a valuable tool. We feel that the 4 PawsTherapy evaluation is the most accurate test available to handlers.

What if I have a Therapy cat or other domestic animal?

4 Paws Therapy is a dog-centered program. Only dogs will be considered for new registrations.

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Agility Classes Questions

Can the other family members come to agility class?

Sure! Guests are always welcome to come watch classes! However, for the sake of consistency for the dog, we ask that you choose one “primary” handler to actually work with the dog in every class. For best results, choose the person the dog already “looks up to” the most to be the primary handler in class. (Please note that there is a legal requirement for a parent to accompany anyone under the age of 18. Please note that children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by another adult in class so that the primary handler can focus on training the dog.)

What kind of training methods are used?

in class. We use positive reinforcement training in this class. We don’t use fear, intimidation or inhumane physical force methods because these methods cause aggression to increase and the relationship between the dog and handler to break down. We use lots of target training and lots of praise! We also believe in safety and conditioning. This means that dogs need to learn how to navigate an obstacle confidently at a lowered height and difficulty before moving on to full-height obstacles. We feel that with safety and confidence comes speed. We also believe in making sure the dog is well-conditioned for the athletic sport of dog agility and that the handler is well-educated about the important aspects of this sport.

Why is the Canine Good Citizen certification a pre-requisite?

In order to safely do the sport of dog agility, a dog must be able to:

  • Sit / Stay
  • Down / Stay
  • Come When Called
  • Obey command in spite of Distractions (other dogs, people, noises, objects)
  • Be predictable and relaxed in a class full of other people and dogs

These objectives are covered in the Canine Good Citizen test.

What if I have already taken agility lessons from another facility?

Please read the class descriptions to choose the most appropriate class. You may find that we offer more classes at the pre-competition levels than most other places — this reflects our training philosophy, and our emphasis on safety and confidence. You will also still need to pass the Canine Good Citizen test to enroll in our agility classes. You can come take a test by checking out the testing dates on our Canine Good Citizen page.

Why is there an age minimum for the Agility classes?

Most dogs have bones in their legs that are still growing and forming until they are 18 months of age. For this reason, there are organizations in which dogs can’t even compete in agility until they are 18 months. Injuries that occur while the dog’s growth plates are still forming can cause serious and irreparable damage. It is highly recommended that dogs do not jump their full shoulder height until they are 18 months of age. Thus, we ask that dogs be at least 7 months of age to take the Pre-Agility class (where we do no real jumping) and 1 year of age to take the Novice level class (where dogs jump full height). We structure our Beginner, Intermediate, and Obstacle Proficiency classes so that dogs are not jumping full height if they are under 18 months of age.

Is there a maximum age for the Agility classes?

The maximum age to participate in agility depends on a dog’s health and state of being, particularly as far as the limbs, back and joints are concerned. If your dog is over the age of 7 years old or has health problems, you should seek approval from your veterinarian before starting agility classes.

What is a typical course progression for an agility dog at Teamworks?

Typically, puppies 14 weeks to 6 months of age start with a Puppy Class. After that, many puppies enjoy the Puppy Agility and Confidence Class and/or the Puppy Agility Foundation Workshops. After your dog over 6 months of age you can take our Canine Good Citizen Class. Next, to really proof the basic skills, handlers love our Distraction Proofing Class. After your dog has passed the Canine Good Citizen test you can enroll him in agility classes. The first class is Pre-Agility, then Beginner, Intermediate, Obstacle Proficiency, Advanced Obstacle Proficiency, Distance Class, Novice Agility, Open Agility, and Excellent Agility. Dogs are typically ready to try Course of the Week after Obstacle Proficiency class. Dogs are typically ready to try Show & Gos after Advanced Obstacle Proficiency class. Dogs are typically ready for competitions after Novice Agility class.

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In-Home Consultation Questions

  • What does the  pre-payment cover?
  • Do I need to commit to a certain number of consultations?
  • Should I tire my dog out before the consultation?

What does the pre-payment cover?

The pre-payment usually covers the initial consultation and, in some cases, books or training material as appropriate. The rates for in-home consultations are published on the In-Home Consultation web page.  If you do not use the one and a half hours of time, you might also receive a credit towards a recommended class. If you would prefer to have the trainer return for a second visit, you can use your credit towards another visit. Any additional time beyond the pre-payment will be at the quoted rate.

Do I need to commit to a certain number of consultations?

Every dog is different and every situation is different. Your Canine Behavior Counselor will talk to you about whether a follow-up visit is recommended. Some types of behavior problems require a stepwise progression and you might need coaching at each step. Other problems are quickly resolved with minimal follow-up.

Should I tire my dog out before the consultation?

No! It is best for the Behavior Counselor to see your dog as he usually is in his normal environment. Please have your dog restrained on leash, though, and have treats readily available.

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