Yes, the dogs live in the prison with their trainers. They have a dedicated crate room in their housing unit. We currently have two different sections of a housing unit (one for adults and one for puppies). Each dog has their own dedicated crate. The dogs go with their handlers during training sessions and the further advanced they get, they can begin to accompany the handler to various groups and classes. Dogs are not allowed in the dining area but do get some training around food, as there is also food in the housing unit. We also have a dedicated fenced in area for the dogs which have some kennels and a fenced in area to be off leash. 

Yes, the dogs are crate trained. They sleep in their crates at night (usually…in advanced training, they may sleep in the dorm style room with their handler). They also crate while their handler is at school or groups.

Yes…BUT…keep in mind that we provide an extremely structured scenario. Because we are in a prison, the dogs are leash walked/pottied beginning at 6:00a.m. through 9p.m. Because we can’t just “open a door” when they tell us they need to go out. Instead, we ensure they get out on a regular basis to potty. They are clean inside and in their crate (absent being sick). They will need  you to show the art of being able to ask for the door to be opened for them. Most dogs pick up on this very quickly. Puppies will obviously need continued potty training. 

All dogs in our program do basic and intermediate levels of training.

They do crate training, potty training, sit, down, stand, leave it, look, watch, loose lead walking, stay, come and bed. When eligible a CGC Test is administered to show competency in their training. 

Each dog is evaluated for playgroup. Suitable dogs interact in regular playgroups. Dogs with difficulty receive training in being neutral around playgroups and often learn how to become a part of playgroups. Some dogs, though, are not suitable (read most herding dogs). They will typically learn to socialize with at least one or two dog friends, even if they are unable to be integrated into the big group. They learn to be neutral and do obedience when in close proximity of other dogs.

Yes, dogs are contextual and while they get extensive training inside, they need to know that the same rules apply in your home. That can only be accomplished by you.

We have a video program which will help guide you in how we have laid the foundation and show you how you can pick up on it. We have online training most every week (2 weeks of Q&A, and 2 weeks of lecture with access to Q&A). We have in person options available for people working through our online program.

Especially if you have a puppy, you should plan to seek out additional training as they age. It takes two years to grow up a puppy into your fabulous companion!

I am not going to lie. I have lost guys from the program because of this part of things. But, this is a part of their rehabilitation. Our trainers put the needs of the dogs above their own desires. Our trainers are doing this to save dogs lives from the shelter. It is a way for them to make amends.

While they are sad (read devastated) when the dogs leave, I have another dog in their hands within 48 hours. That’s the deal. We are trying to save lives from the shelter and our guys are soooo overjoyed when their dog is successfully adopted (despite their personal heartbreak for themselves). This is the whole point of our program, so please consider adopting from us, so that we can open up room to save more dogs!