Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just train my dog on my own?

Yes, you can absolutely work on training your dog yourself—but professional dog training can make a big difference. A structured program helps prevent behavioral issues like anxiety, aggression, and destructive chewing, while also teaching essential obedience skills that make your dog a better companion.

How long does training take?

Training timelines vary depending on your dog’s age, breed, temperament, and the goals you have in mind. Basic obedience can typically take a few weeks, while more advanced training or behavior modification may take several months.

Consistency, practice, and completing homework between sessions are key to long-term success.

What age is best to start training?

The earlier, the better! Puppies go through a critical socialization period between 3 and 14 weeks of age, during which they are especially open to learning and new experiences. Starting training during this time helps set the foundation for a well-behaved, confident dog.

That said, it’s never too late to start—dogs of any age can benefit from training!

Is my dog too old to train?

Not at all! Dogs can be trained at any age. With consistency, patience, and the right approach, older dogs are fully capable of learning new behaviors and improving existing ones. The key is your willingness to learn, stay committed, and put in the work alongside your dog.

It’s never too late to start building better habits and a stronger bond.

What breeds do you train?

We train all breeds and all sizes—from tiny Yorkies to towering Irish Wolfhounds. No matter the breed, size, or background, we tailor our training to fit each dog’s individual needs and personality.

Big or small, we train them all!

What kinds of behavioral issues can training help?

Professional dog training can help address a wide range of behavioral challenges, including: fear of loud noises or unfamiliar situations, destructive chewing or digging, excessive barking or whining, jumping, leash pulling, and other impulse control issues. With consistent training and the right strategies, many of these behaviors can be significantly improved—or resolved entirely.

What kinds of issues do you not work with?

We do not handle cases involving aggression, whether dog-to-dog, dog-to-person, or severe anxiety. These complex behaviors require specialized expertise and will be referred to a qualified behaviorist who is trained to address such challenges.

How do I get started?

The first step is to book a phone consultation. This allows us to learn more about your dog and understand what you’d like to achieve through training. We’ll discuss your goals, explain our training approach, and answer any questions you may have.

Consultations typically take about 30 minutes and are the perfect way to determine the best path forward for you and your dog.

Why do I have to provide vaccination records?

Vaccination records are required for all dogs enrolled with Barrio Dog Training. They help protect your dog—and others—by preventing the spread of serious and potentially deadly diseases like Distemper, Parvo, and Rabies.

Ensuring all dogs are properly vaccinated keeps our training environment safe, healthy, and responsible for everyone involved.

Does my puppy need to be fully vaccinated before starting?

Puppies should have at least two rounds of core vaccinations before any training that will require leaving your residence. This provides a basic level of protection while allowing them to start learning during their critical socialization period.

For certain classes, like group exposure sessions or public outings, full vaccination may be required.

Always consult with your veterinarian to ensure your puppy is ready for training based on their age and vaccination schedule.