FAQs
Where does training take place?
The greater Bismarck-Mandan, ND area. Because dogs are social and pack animals, we integrate socialization into training and may train in your home and various social settings.
What type of training do you provide?
Basic/Foundational Skills, Intermediate, and Advanced Training,
American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen (AKC CGC) Training and Testing
Therapy Dog Training and Testing
AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Training
Trick Dog Testing
Do you have training packages?
Yes. Packages vary in number of sessions and price depending on your training goals. Your training is personalized to your specific interest and needs based on the completion of a Dog Training Goals Questionnaire and Training Agreement. Most dog owners will initially select five training sessions if their dog has not had any previous formal training.
What training methods do you use?
Primarily positive reinforcement, praise, and reward-based training. However, one method or approach does not fit all dogs. Each dog is different. So other effective learning strategies may be used to help your dog learn the skills and commands being taught. Informational materials relating to the training are also provided to dog owners.
What is your background?
Dr. VanLoon is a Certified Dog Trainer (CDT-C), American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, and has a Doctorate in Educational Psychology. He has studied learning theory, operant conditioning, and classical conditioning. He has written four books about his dog, Rocky, The Therapy Dog, who is a Certified Therapy Dog with over 700 pet therapy visits, has the Supreme therapy dog title from the AKC, and is an Advanced Level Trick Dog. Dr. VanLoon and Rocky also volunteer for the American Red Cross as a pet therapy team with Service to the Armed Forces.
Why do you train dogs?
I love dogs! They are a gift, and we can learn much from them. I want dog owners to build a stronger bond with their four-legged friend and have safe and happy relationship with their dog.
What do you recommend for dog owners to be successful in training?
Socialization, regular practice with your dog, consistency in applying the skills taught, patience, and learn what motivates your dog and how to communicate with them. We believe that “with proper training, a human can be a dog’s best friend.”
Do you have gift certificates?
Absolutely. Gift certificates are great gifts for someone wanting to have a well-trained dog and companion.
How do I begin training?
Send a message through the Contact Form on the website for Rock Solid Dog Training, LLC or an email to RSDT4U@gmail.com. You can also call us at (701) 751-3434.
Do you have any recommendations?
You are welcome to check out our ratings and reviews on our Google and Facebook pages.