What training methods do you use?
We use positive reinforcement, which means rewarding the behaviors we want to see more of. Our approach focuses on building communication, confidence, and a strong relationship between you and your dog. We never use prong, choke, or shock collars, or training methods based on fear or pain.
How old does my dog need to be to start training?
Dogs of any age can learn new skills! Puppies can begin learning as soon as they come home, typically around 8 weeks of age. We help puppy owners build good habits early, while adult and senior dogs can continue learning and improving their manners at any stage of life.
Where do training sessions take place?
Training sessions take place in your home, in your neighborhood, or in appropriate public locations where your dog needs practice. Mountain Strong Dog Training is based in Clarksville, Maryland, and serves clients throughout Howard County and Montgomery County, as well as northern Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, and nearby communities.
For locations outside our standard service area, please contact us to discuss availability and applicable travel fees. Travel fees are based on round-trip driving distance and are confirmed before booking.
How many training sessions will my dog need?
Every dog and training goal is different. Many basic obedience and everyday manners goals can be addressed in approximately 4–6 sessions, while puppy training and behavior concerns such as reactivity, fear, or anxiety may require additional time and practice.
During your free 15-minute consultation, we’ll discuss your goals, learn more about your dog, and recommend an appropriate starting point. We’ll provide honest guidance about what to expect and adjust the plan as your dog progresses.
Do you guarantee training results?
No trainer can guarantee how a dog will behave in every situation. Progress depends on several factors, including your dog’s individual needs, training history, environment, and consistency with practice between sessions.
What we do promise is a personalized training plan, clear instruction, honest feedback, and ongoing support to help you and your dog work toward your goals.
Does my dog need to be vaccinated before training?
Yes. To help protect the health and safety of the dogs we work with, we ask that dogs be appropriately vaccinated for their age, health, and lifestyle, in consultation with their veterinarian. Rabies vaccination must meet applicable legal requirements.
Puppies who are still completing their vaccination series may be eligible to participate, depending on their age, vaccination status, and training environment. Please discuss any vaccination concerns or medical exemptions with your veterinarian and let us know before your first session. Proof of vaccination may be requested.
For everyone’s safety, please contact us to reschedule if your dog is showing signs of a potentially contagious illness, including coughing, vomiting, or diarrhea.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
We ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment.
- Cancellations with at least 24 hours’ notice: You may reschedule without a fee or request a refund for a canceled, prepaid individual appointment.
- Late cancellations: Each client receives one courtesy late cancellation. Subsequent cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice are subject to a $50 fee.
- Missed appointments: No-shows may be charged the full session fee or counted as a used session for prepaid packages, subject to applicable law and any agreed exceptions.
- Training packages: Packages expire six months from purchase, with reasonable extensions for illness, emergencies, or trainer-caused delays. If you decide not to continue, you may request a refund for eligible unused sessions. Completed sessions will be deducted at the regular individual-session rate ($125 per session), and any remaining balance will be refunded.
- Cancellations by Mountain Strong Dog Training: If we cancel an appointment, you may reschedule at no additional charge or request a refund for that appointment.
We understand that illness and unexpected emergencies happen. Please contact us as soon as possible, and we’ll consider the circumstances. All cancellation and refund terms are subject to any rights provided by applicable law.
How can I pay for training?
We accept Venmo, PayPal, and Zelle.
Payment arrangements will be confirmed when you book. All services and packages must be purchased online or by phone before your scheduled appointment; we do not accept payment for new services or packages during in-home training sessions.
Before completing your purchase, you’ll receive the service details, pricing, and applicable cancellation and refund terms. Payment confirms your booking once the appointment has been agreed upon and scheduled.