The DogSmith Training & Behavior Modification Services

The DogSmith offers individualized, measurable, attainable, and realistic training programs with set timelines, all based on the most up-to-date scientific research and Applied Behavior Analysis. They emphasize active involvement from both the dog and its owner in the learning process, believing that greater learning occurs through participation rather than passive observation.

Newly acquired skills require frequent repetition in various contexts to ensure they are fully learned and can be generalized to new situations while also allowing the dog to discriminate when appropriate. The training philosophy prioritizes positive reinforcement for correct behaviors, with rewards like food and toys gradually replaced by life rewards such as attention and petting. The DogSmith uses training and behavior change methods that are minimally invasive and intrusive to the animal, always holding the dog’s welfare as their top priority. They do not condone or endorse any physically or mentally cruel treatment and will opt out of an agreement rather than manage an unethical course of action. Aggressive dogs are prohibited from group classes but can attend one-on-one training sessions. They do not administer sedatives to pets unless agreed upon in writing as part of a behavior change program and veterinarian prescribed for board and train. They also do not diagnose or make therapy decisions, referring all veterinary/medical concerns to a veterinarian.

Pricing Summary

Payment in full is due at the time of reservation, and reservations are not held until payment is received. A $35.00 service charge applies for each returned check. A holiday surcharge is applied to each day of service on Christmas (December 24th & 25th), New Year’s (December 31st & January 1st), Thanksgiving (November 25th & 26th), Labor Day (September 6th), Memorial Day (May 31st), and Independence Day (July 4th).

The general cancellation policy provides a full refund if cancellation is received at least 8 days prior to scheduled service. A 20% cancellation fee applies if cancellation is received within 2-7 days of scheduled services. A 100% cancellation fee applies if cancellation is received within 48 hours of a scheduled service or within 7 days of a national holiday. No refunds are provided for clients returning home early from reservations. Payments for private and group lessons are non-refundable, though credit may be given against other lessons or courses at the discretion of the local DogSmith. Pre-paid daycare packages are non-refundable. Late pick-up fees may apply for daycare, and cancellations not made by 6:30 PM one business day prior to the scheduled daycare day will be charged full fees.

Policies

Payment in full is due at the time of reservation, and a $35.00 service charge applies for returned checks. Holiday surcharges are applied on specific national holidays. The general cancellation policy offers a full refund for cancellations made at least 8 days prior to service, a 20% fee for cancellations within 2-7 days, and a 100% fee for cancellations within 48 hours or 7 days of a national holiday. No refunds are given for early returns from reservations. Payments for private and group lessons are non-refundable, but credit may be offered at the local DogSmith’s discretion. Pre-paid daycare packages are non-refundable, and late cancellations for daycare are charged full fees.

The DogSmith reserves the right to terminate contracts if a pet poses a danger to itself, other pets, other people, or the Pet Care Technician, with the owner responsible for all associated charges. Clients waive claims against The DogSmith for negligence, except for claims involving hired Independent Pet Care Technicians who are required to carry liability insurance. Clients are asked to notify DogSmith of any concerns within 24 hours of their return.

For in-home pet care, DogSmith is not responsible for plants, damage beyond their control (e.g., water leaks, electrical problems, acts of nature), or security if other individuals have access to the home or if it’s not properly secured. They are not liable for burglary. Pet owners must have legal rights to place animals in care and are responsible for pet-proofing the house and yard, ensuring fence security, and supplying necessary safety equipment, supplies, and medications. Owners are responsible for all medical expenses and damages resulting from an injury caused by their pet to a Pet Care Technician or other persons.

For slumber parties and board and train, pets not picked up within 2 days of the scheduled date may be considered abandoned and re-homed according to local laws. All dogs must be current on DHLPP, Rabies, Bordetella, and heartworm treatment, with written vaccination records required. Dogs must wear nylon collars with rabies tags, name, and home telephone number, and a nylon leash must be provided. All pets must be treated with a flea, tick, and heartworm preventative; flea baths will be given at the owner’s expense if fleas are found. Sedatives are generally not administered unless agreed upon in writing as part of a behavior change program and veterinarian prescribed for board and train.

For boutique boarding, all pets must have a veterinarian and be current on DHLPP, Rabies, and Bordetella vaccinations. Flea, tick, and heartworm preventative is required. They do not care for acutely ill animals or those with uncontrolled medical conditions, and pets infected with ringworm are not admitted. Any known behavioral and/or aggression problems must be communicated. Aggressive animals are not accepted for boutique boarding or dog walking services. They will not walk unruly or untrained dogs or dogs that choke themselves on their leash, and will not walk more than two dogs at one time.

For dog daycare, all dogs must be spayed or neutered (unless under 6 months of age), have up-to-date vaccinations (DHPP, Rabies, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, and 6-monthly Bordetella), and be in good health. Dogs ill in the last 30 days require a veterinarian certification of health. All dogs are examined for fleas and ticks at check-in and will not be admitted if signs are noticed; treatment will be applied and charged to the owner if found during daycare. All dogs must pass The DogSmith Proprietary Behavioral Assessment and be non-aggressive and not food or toy protective. Puppies may begin before rabies vaccine and spay/neuter if completed by 6 months of age. Dogs in daycare do not wear collars for safety; quick release collars or body harnesses are required on arrival. A minimum one-day/week program participation is required, with reassessment if the commitment is not met or if the dog has been out of daycare for two months or longer. Dues are payable at the end of each day, and pre-paid packages are non-refundable.

For spa services, pets will not be bathed if it is unsafe, or if they are too large or heavy to handle. Services may be stopped mid-bath for safety, with the client potentially charged the service price. Severe mats will be shaved, not combed out, and heavy matting may be referred to a professional groomer. They do not offer spa services for sedated animals, do not administer sedatives, do not express anal glands, and refer adverse ear conditions to a veterinarian. Nail trimming may not be 100% “technically accurate” to avoid mental distress or physical discomfort to the pet.

The DogSmith Training & Behavior Modification Services is a national company providing force-free, learning-theory based dog training and pet care programs. Their mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship and overall quality of life.

They are committed to a “do no harm” philosophy, emphasizing a holistic approach to pet care that considers the physical, emotional, and environmental well-being of animals. The DogSmith also supports animal shelters and rescue organizations to help minimize the number of unwanted pets.

Services offered include basic obedience, puppy training, behavior modification, and specialized programs like Dog Sports and Scent Training. They also provide comprehensive pet care services such as in-home pet sitting, dog walking, doggie daycare, kitty services, slumber parties (in-home boarding with a technician), and DogVenture, which is a scientifically based enrichment system. Virtual training and training retreats (board and train) are also available.

Their programs are individualized, measurable, attainable, realistic, and have set timelines, all founded on up-to-date scientific research and Applied Behavior Analysis. They focus on active participation from both the dog and owner, frequent repetition for skill generalization, and consistent positive reinforcement.

The DogSmith aims to provide the most effective methods to train and care for pets while giving back to the community and offering a fulfilling business opportunity for its owners.

Accomplishments

The DogSmith was established by Niki Tudge, who possesses extensive corporate experience in Executive Management, Leadership, People Training Skills, and Customer Service. Niki is the Founder and President of The Pet Professional Guild, which is described as the only force-free pet professional association in the United States, and also founded DogNostics Career College, the educational arm of The DogSmith system. In 2015, she was appointed President for Doggone Safe, a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for dog bite safety.

Niki Tudge holds an MBA from Oxford Brookes University, England. She is accredited as a Professional Canine Behavior Consultant (PCBC-A) and Professional Canine Trainer (PCT-A) by The Pet Professional Accreditation Board. Her academic background includes diplomas in Animal Behavior Technology and Dog Behavior Consulting from the Companion Animal Science Institute, and a Pet Doula Certificate from The University of Vermont. Additionally, she holds various certifications including Certified People Trainer, Certified Project Manager, Certified Transformation Specialist, Business Mentor & Coach, Certified Walking & Running Coach, ISSA Certified Elite Trainer, and ISSA Certified Nutritionist. Niki is the author of several books, including “Pet Training and Behavior Consulting: A Model for Raising the Bar to Protect Professionals, Pets and Their People,” “People Training Skills,” “Get Coaching Now,” “Big Training for a Small Business,” and “The Kids Comprehensive Guide To Speaking Dog.” She is also a Certified Six Sigma Black Belt & Project Manager and a Certified Project Facilitator. Her work has been featured in numerous publications such as the New York Times Newspaper, Walton Sun, Panama City News Herald Newspaper, Coastal Style Magazine, and 850 Business Magazine.

How to Get Started!

To begin, clients can request a FREE DogSmith Telephone Consultation. This consultation is designed to help determine the most appropriate service option for their needs. Request forms are forwarded to the local DogSmith in the client’s area. If there is no DogSmith operating in the client’s area, the Corporate Office, led by Niki Tudge, will respond with an offer of Virtual Training Support. In extreme situations, the DogSmith will provide management advice to support the safety and welfare of all involved before an in-person meeting.