Frequently Asked Questions

Wonder Dogs has been creating wonder dogs for 20 years!

Our instructors have more than 40 years combined experience, from Montana to NYC to Rhode Island and even right here in Oregon. We understand that behavior change (including yours!) takes time and consistency, and we want you both to succeed!

Q. what should I bring for my dog’s training?

A. Your dog needs lots of support to make good choices during training! Our goal is to teach you to set him/her up for success, since this makes training your dog easier for you. We also have many of the required supplies available for purchase before or after class, even pre-stuffed and frozen chew toys!

Here’s a list of items you’ll need EVERY time you bring your dog to Wonder Dogs:

  • Your hungry dog, who has had a chance to potty

  • 2-4 cups of pea-sized soft treats (no dry dog food)

  • Pouch, apron or treat bag (no ziplock bags)

  • Size-appropriate blanket, dog bed or mat

  • 2 stuffed kongs, toppls or licky mats

  • 2 chew toys (examples: nylabone, antler, bully stick, benebone, etc)

  • Tug toy

  • Harness or collar (no chain, prong or choke collars)

  • 6-foot nylon, leather or biothane leash (no metal or retractable)

  • NO electronic collars or punishment devices of any kind


Q. at what age can puppies start group class?

A. Depending on your puppy's age at the start of class, you'll sign up for either:

Class curriculum is dictated by age and natural canine development stages, not skills acquired.

Q. what if I have to miss a class?

A. Our curriculum is designed specifically to make training progress in the most timely and effective way possible, so attendance to all classes is paramount. But we understand that sometimes, life happens!

  • Group Training:

    • If your dog is sick they should not be brought to class. Humans may attend in person without their dog or via zoom with their dog from home. Continuing to practice at home is critical to your success!

    • We offer group makeup sessions and drop-ins for all students twice monthly for a nominal fee.

    • Use your Wonder Student Resources Page!

    • We understand that circumstances may change suddenly or unexpectedly. If you must withdraw from a class within the first three weeks, 50% of remaining classes can be refunded or used for a one-time transfer to a different class.

    • If withdrawal is due to unexpected human or dog injury, 100% of remaining classes can be refunded or used for a one-time transfer to a different class with presentation of doctor/vet note.

    • Wonder Dogs does not offer credits on client accounts for future classes not currently scheduled. If you are unable to commit to a different class, we are happy to provide a partial refund.

    • No refunds or transfers after the first three weeks of class.

    • Intact dogs are welcome to attend Wonder Dogs classes. If your female comes into season, please notify us and plan to bring her in dog britches for cleanliness.

  • Private Training:

    • We require a 72 hour notice to reschedule or cancel these personalized services because we are dedicated to giving professional, personalized attention and care to all our clients. We are always working to help you get the best possible outcome from training, so the importance of these sessions for meeting your goals cannot be stressed highly enough. Please schedule them carefully and login to your account to double-check appointment times and locations.

    • Should you need to reschedule or cancel your lesson, please contact us a minimum of 72 hours prior to lesson time or a $50.00 cancellation fee will be applied.

    • Same-day cancellations and no-show appointments will be forfeit and billed in full for liquidated damages.

 

Q. what is your vaccination policy?

A. We require that all puppies have their first round of shots before attending puppy class. Puppies need to be up to date on their vaccinations for their age but it's extremely important to start training and socialization before vaccinations are done. Please read the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior position statement on socialization vs vaccination. The current gold standard of proper puppy development includes adequate and proper socialization before your puppy is 12 weeks old. These vaccines are optional but not required: Bordetella, Lepto, Lyme, Canine Flu.

  

Q. can my dog skip a prerequisite for a class?

A. Our curriculum is designed by professional trainers, along with the latest science and the best minds in the business. The saying goes “Beginner dancers want to take intermediate classes. Intermediate dancers want to take advanced classes. Advanced dancers take private lessons to work on their basics.” We are positive you will learn something new every time you attend a Wonder Dogs class, so we don’t allow students to skip their foundations.

If you’d prefer to accelerate your dog’s learning, you can register for a private lesson to supplement your dog’s training, fast-track a specific skill and/or discuss your training needs and goals.


Q. my dog cowers/barks/lunges/growls at other dogs or people. can I take group class?

A. Reactivity to others dogs or unfamiliar people is very common and there are lots of things we can do to improve overall sociability. Contact us about our behavior modification and therapy services for issues such as overexcitement, fear, anxiety, reactivity and aggression.

  • Start with a behavior consultation to address the underlying emotional issue and develop protocols for moving forward. You’ll also get a referral to services more appropriate for your dogs needs, such as S.T.A.R. class, tutoring or private coaching.

  • If you have questions or concerns about whether your dog is suitable for class, please email us. We are happy to help!

  • You can also attend ANY group class that Wonder Dogs offers and avoid distractions by attending via zoom!