FREQUENTLY ASKED
Have questions? We've got you.
Everything you might want to know before you reach out.
THE BASICS
Are you accepting new clients?
Yes. We’d love to hear from you. Call or text 585-271-8458 and we’ll help you get started.
Where are you located?
Our private training studio is at 1030 N. Winton Rd in Rochester, NY.
Everything happens right here, by appointment.
What areas do you serve?
Families come to the studio from all over the Rochester area and the surrounding suburbs, Brighton, Pittsford, Webster, Penfield, Fairport, Irondequoit, Greece, Henrietta, and beyond.
WHAT WE DO (& DON’T)
Is training private or in groups?
Always private, one-on-one. Just you, your dog, and me. No group classes, that’s the whole point, so I can give you 100% of my attention.
Do you offer board and train/residential training?
No. You are a part of every lesson from beginning to end.
Do you offer daycare or boarding?
No. We’re a training studio, not a daycare or boarding facility.
Do you come to my house?
No. Every lesson happens at the studio. It’s quiet, it’s set up for learning, and after 30 years I can tell you it works beautifully.
Do you accept walk-ins?
No. Rochester Canine Academy is by appointment only.
Lessons are scheduled Wednesdays through Saturdays from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
GETTING STARTED & COST
How do I get started?
The first step is to connect with Lyss, our admin, by phone, text, email, or through our Contact Us page. She can answer initial questions, schedule your evaluation, and handle billing for that first appointment.
Your 1-hour evaluation is then with Alisson, your trainer and owner of Rochester Canine Academy. During that appointment, Alisson learns all about you, your dog, your goals, and discusses the training programs that may be the best fit.
Do I need an evaluation?
If your dog is 13 weeks or older, yes, we start with a one-hour evaluation so I can meet you and your dog so that I can get a full picture of what your goals and concerns are before choosing a training program.
Puppies under 13 weeks can jump right into the Start Smart Puppy Program, no evaluation needed.
What happens at the evaluation?
It’s a one-hour, in-person visit. I meet you and your dog, hear what’s driving you a little crazy and where you want to end up, and walk you through the program that fits. You don’t need to know which one you want before you come in, that’s my job.
How much does it cost?
The evaluation is $100, and it applies toward your program deposit if you enroll during your appointment. Full program pricing is something we talk through at the evaluation, once I’ve met your dog, because the right recommendation depends on your dog and your goals.
Do I have to know which program I want before meeting you?
Nope. Figuring that out together is exactly what the first step is for. You just have to reach out.
APPROACH & FIT
What ages of dogs do you work with?
All ages! Puppies under 13 weeks start with the Start Smart Puppy Program. Dogs 16 weeks and over start with an evaluation and one of our Signature Programs. Puppies between the ages of 13-15 weeks can get their evaluation out of the way so that we can start a Signature Program as soon as they turn 16 weeks old.
What kind of training methods do you use?
We use clear communication, structure, rewards, guidance, and accountability to teach your dog what ‘yes’ means and what ‘no’ means. That’s how dogs learn reliable real-world behavior. Training is tailored to the individual dog, the goals of the owner, and what is needed to help that dog succeed.
Do you work with reactive dogs?
Yes. We welcome most reactivity cases.
Do you work with aggression cases?
Dogs who have previously bitten people or other dogs are accepted on a case-by-case basis.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
We are happy to answer them and help you get started.
Call or Text: 585-271-8458