Preparing for your training session

Once you have booked an appointment, you will be sent an intake questionnaire. This gives your trainer all the necessary information to ensure we can meet your dogs unique needs. 

Please complete and submit this form at least 24 hours prior to your booked appointment.

Dogs are required to be up to date on vaccines.

Please email a copy of your dog's vaccination record to info@smartypaws.ca by no later than 24 hours prior to your ppointment,

Please prepare for your training session by having the following items close at hand:

A selection of tiny sized tasty treats

Standard harness with a front clip leash attachment

Standard 6 foot leash

Your dog's bed or blanket

Smarty Paws utilizes positive reinforcement, reward based training. 

E-Collars, citronella collars, choke chains and prong collars will not be used for training.

This equipment can be uncomfortable or painful for dogs and create negative associations between you and the world around you which carries the risk of behavioural fallout.

If you are already using these tools, we are happy to work with you and your dog and create a training plan that replaces these items with other methods.

At this time, we do not offer training for complex behaviors. 

Melissa is a certified professional dog trainer, qualified to provide puppy training as well as foundational and life skills for dogs of all ages. She can also assess and implement training strategies for common challenges such as excessive barking, crate and vehicle anxiety, pulling during walks, destructive chewing, digging, and other concerns.

Melissa is currently studying to become a certified canine behavior consultant, and is expected to graduate in April 2026. We plan to expand our services to include complex behavior such as aggression and reactivity at that time.

Unfortunately, the canine industry is unregulated, meaning that anyone can call themselves a dog trainer or behavior consultant regardless of their experience, education, or methods.

We believe that training and behavior modification should be handled by professionals with formal education. Using current, evidence-based methods ensures the best outcomes for pets and their owners. Effective training strengthens the bond between pets and families, while encouraging positive changes in a safe and humane manner. Trusting qualified experts is key to achieving lasting results in pet training.

For assistance with complex behavioral issues such as reactivity and aggression, please consult a certified canine behavior consultant or a veterinary behaviorist.

Due to the nature of private, in home training sessions, if you or your dog have symptoms of illness we ask that you let us know right away to discuss whether your session should be rescheduled.

Many viruses are easily transmitted onto clothing or equipment. We are committed to your dog's well being and don't want to potentially bring viruses from one home into another - especially a home with young puppies that aren't yet fully vaccinated or dogs who may have medical issues that make them more vulnerable. 

If you or another member of your family is sick, we ask that you contact us prior to our arrival for your appointment. We strive to ensure appointments are kept as planned. If your trainer picks up an illness from one home, it becomes inconvenient and disappointing for other clients who then need to be rescheduled.

If you or your dog shows signs of coughing, cold or GI upset prior to your appointment, please contact us so we can discuss whether it's appropriate to keep or reschedule your appointment. Please also contact your veterinarian to ensure your dog's well being.