FAQs
At Lakota’s Legacy Dog Behavior & Life Skills Training, we believe every dog deserves to be understood—not just managed. Whether you’re starting fresh with a new puppy or feeling overwhelmed by fear, reactivity, trauma, or aggression, our humane, science-based methods are designed to help. This page answers your most common questions about what to expect from our positive reinforcement approach, how we create lasting change, and why clients in Clarksville, Fort Campbell, Middle Tennessee and beyond trust us to guide their journey—virtually or in person.
What kind of training methods do you use? We use only positive rewards-based methods in our dog training.
What is your background? Please check out the Certs and Reviews Section on this website to get a glimpse of some of the courses and certifications held. Certifications include Trauma Informed Pet Professional with Animal Behavior Kent, and Certified Dog Behavior Consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
Will you work with my vet? Yes. From time to time we will involve your veterinarian in a particular situation.
Will this fix my dog? No. Your dog isn’t broken. My goal is to improve your dog’s Quality of Life with a customized plan that works on a cognitive and emotional level.
Will you ever use force, punishment, a pinch or shock e-collar? NO!
Can you help me with my aggressive dog? YES!
Can you help me with my crazy reactive dog? YES!
Can you help me understand my dog better? YES! Educating humans is a HUGE part of what I do.
Do you use dominance training? NO. That is an old debunked theory that won’t go away.
How long will it take for my dog to get better? That depends on your commitment to the process, your dog’s learning (some are quicker than others and that is okay), and ultimately up to the dog. We look at it all in a holistic way and work together as a team to help your dog.
Can you help me virtually online? Yes. I am set up to be able to help anyone with an internet connection. For certain dogs it is better that I am not in their presence as my goal is to reduce the amount of stress on the dog.
How will this help my dog if we never put my dog in the middle of the struggle? Because the dog needs to change how they feel about the situation/trigger, or learn how to make different choices through their behavior BEFORE we start working in the situation. I want your dog to be as equipped as possible, setting up both of you for success.
Can you guarantee results? No, there are no guarantees on your dog’s behavior any more than I can predict your behavior, or mine for that matter. Dog’s are animals with their own thoughts, feelings and behavior. The only way to guarantee results is through pain and punishment (including use of shock e-collars).
Do you train puppies? Yes. Puppies need a strong foundation on which to grow up on. We are not as focused on “obedience” but more of life skills to help the pup live a long happy life with their human family, avoiding tough behavior struggles as adults. We focus on building the dog’s confidence, optimism, self-control, self-management, for instance. These skills apply to just about anything else we want to do with our dogs from walking nicely on a leash to chilling out in the home and coming back when called. Our puppy training focuses on the relationship between you and your dog, making it one that is trusting, respectful, safe and fun.
How old should my puppy be to start puppy training? Anywhere from 8 weeks and up is optimum.
Do you offer payment plans? On certain services I do. Just get in touch and we can discuss.
What if I have a question about my dog’s training after our session? Drop me an email and I am happy to get back with you on it. I am here to help you succeed.
I can’t get my dog to walk nice on a leash. Can you help me with that? Yes. I have a really cool Reactive to Rockin 10 wk course you can check out in my services
What’s the difference between “Behavior Modification” and “Training”? Behavior Modification goes much deeper than the operant sit, down, and stay type of training. We are working on the dog’s behavior through their emotions and thoughts. We are building up the dog to empower them and teach them how to make better choices on their own without us “commanding” them to. My Life Skills training is similar in that aspect as we are teaching your dog how to make better choices for themselves and not bossing them or constantly telling them what to do. Training is a large umbrella that covers many different types: Agility, fly ball, obedience, rally, Schutzhund, Dock Diving, Search & Rescue, Task Force, Drug Detection, Therapy, Service Dog, Barn Hunt, Scent, for instance. I am a Concept Trainer.
What is a concept trainer? In Concept Training, we are reshaping the dog’s brain by helping them create new neural pathways which helps them to learn the skills they need to live in the human’s world. This is a deep, empowering, kind and fun way that the dog’s enjoy and understand. It becomes a new way to communicate with your dog.
What can I expect the first session? It depends on which training or consult you are enrolling in. Generally, there will be discussion, Q&A, and homework.
How do I get started? Shoot me an email via the contact form on the Contact tab and I will be in touch with you.
Debunking Canine Behavior Myths
Positive feedback for a book doesn’t necessarily reflect the author’s comprehensive understanding of what drives a dog’s actions.
A background as a military veteran or law enforcement officer with canine experience doesn’t equate to profound insights into dog psychology; it often relates more to training proficiency. Terms such as “command” and “obedience” are relics from a time when military dog training was the norm, but our approach to canine companionship has evolved since then.
The claim that “shock collars are harmless when used correctly” is misleading. Relying on such antiquated techniques indicates a deficit in both knowledge and skill. Improper use is common, and there’s ample research illustrating the detrimental impact of these devices on dogs. There are many strategies to modify behavior—shouldn’t we choose the most compassionate and humane?
Products advertised on television that promise to “stop your dog from barking” or “prevent your dog from pulling” are often quick fixes that can lead to discomfort or exacerbate behavioral issues. For instance, compulsive disorders may develop from something as seemingly harmless as chasing laser pointers.
The notion that “if it worked for my dog, it will work for yours” is flawed. Canine behavior is intricate and individualized; a one-size-fits-all solution is unrealistic. Dispensing training advice without an in-depth understanding of canine psychology can be counterproductive, if not harmful.
“Cheap trainers are just as good”. The adage “you get what you pay for” rings especially true in the realm of dog training. Investing in inexpensive trainers may seem like a bargain at first glance, but the real cost lies in the value of the guidance you receive. Opting for low-cost options can often lead to subpar advice, which not only fails to resolve behavioral issues but can exacerbate them, leading to further expenses down the line.
In contrast, seeking the expertise of a seasoned professional, one who has a wealth of experience with a variety of behaviors and employs a tailored approach, is an investment in lasting change. These experts don’t rely on one-size-fits-all solutions; they understand the intricate nuances of canine behavior and adapt their methods to meet the unique needs of each dog and owner.
So, when considering where to allocate your resources, ask yourself: Would you rather invest once in quality, effective training, or risk spending repeatedly on ineffective, generic advice? The choice is clear—choose wisely and invest in a trainer who offers not just a service, but a partnership in your dog’s behavioral success. Quality training is an investment in your dog’s future and your peace of mind.
The significance of professional certifications extends far beyond the alphabet soup that follows a name. These credentials are not mere decorations; they are badges of honor, earned through stringent examinations designed to validate a deep understanding of canine behavior. Accrediting bodies uphold strict standards, ensuring that their logos and titles are symbols of genuine expertise, not just empty claims.
Consider this: driving a truck doesn’t equate to being a certified mechanic, just as owning a dog (or having trained them) doesn’t automatically bestow upon one the title of a “behaviorist” (which is only earned through a college degree in the US). It’s crucial to recognize the ethical implications and the respect for the field that comes with legitimate certification. So, when selecting a professional for your beloved canine, heed this warning: look beyond the surface, seek out true qualifications, and trust in those who have dedicated themselves to rigorous study and practice. Your dog deserves the expertise that only true professionals can provide.