Business Details
About
Dog TrainerPet Trainer
Elevate Canine Academy provides dog training programs in Fargo and Bismarck, ND.
Details
- Wheelchair accessible entranceAvailable
- Wheelchair accessible restroomAvailable
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.9
78 reviews
5 stars
76
4 stars1
3 stars0
2 stars0
1 star1
- SSSarah SwartzOct 22, 20255.0My husband and I are incredibly impressed with the results of training for one of our dogs. Our dog completed Elevate's 3-week day training program and we are so proud of how far he’s come! We brought him there to work on reactivity/fear, over-excitement, and general obedience. From the very first day, we saw a major improvement in his behavior, listening to commands, and best of all he is now calmer and more confident in all environments. There are some behaviors that have been harder to overcome than others, but with this training package, they give you the tools to continue training at home (which is the most important part for longevity of the results!). We knew going into this training that a majority of the progress would be working consistently with the dog at home, and anyone interested in this program must be willing to put in that work for the best results. When looking at the pre-training questionnaire and the post-training questionnaire we filled out, he improved immensely on his "bad" behaviors and obedience/commands. The team there is fantastic and we will miss seeing them every day but are excited for him to continue improving from home.
- ACAndrea ChaneyOct 2, 20255.0I couldn’t be happier with the training Britta and I received at Elevate Canine Academy. I’ve seen such a positive transformation in her—she now has much better impulse control and her aggression toward other dogs has decreased. The trainers were incredibly patient and supportive, not only teaching Britta good manners but also helping me with questions and situations that came up at home. I tried training her on my own and that did not go well- I was frustrated and almost in tears. The investment was absolutely worth it—I couldn’t have done it without them. If you’re on the fence about going to Elevate Canine Academy, I’d say go for it! It will strengthen the bond you have with your dog and give you the tools and confidence to enjoy your time together even more.
- ALAspen LacyOct 1, 20255.0My dog, Lemon, really enjoyed going to Elevate during her 2-week training program! We noticed a difference in her behavior almost immediately. We ended the program with great tools to continue her training journey!
- MLMolly LundonSep 18, 20255.0We had our puppy go through their puppy school, which is a great starter when getting a new dog. After we finished that course, we did the 10 day obedience and it was an absolute joy! I would highly recommend this academy to anyone who recently just got a new dog or is looking to get off to the right step when it comes to training your dog. We will definitely be adding the punch card, where we can drop our pup off when needed and continue to build on his enrichment and obedience training!!
- JGjenny gamerSep 15, 20255.0Elevate did amazing work with my dog! I feel so much more comfortable with managing her now. When we moved from the country it was too much stress for her! The trainers were all great and really helped my dog become more confident and comfortable around all kinds of situations- especially other dogs. I wish I would have brought her 6 months ago!
Frequently Asked Questions About Elevate Canine Academy
If my dog goes through training, don't I need training as well?
Indeed, you do. We often say that 70% of the training is for the human, while 30% is for the dog. Dogs typically learn commands quickly, but it's the owner's responsibility to maintain consistency and accountability. Our programs include one-on-one sessions with you, along with follow-up emails containing video demonstrations of what to practice at home. For certain programs, we also conduct home visits after the dog's training to ensure you're applying what was learned in the home environment.
My dog is aggressive, but I don't want to waste money if the training isn't going to work. How do we know it will work?
The success of the training largely depends on the owner's commitment. For behavioral issues, it's crucial that you're willing to set boundaries, provide consequences, and maintain consistency. If you're unable to enforce rules or follow through with the training, it may not be effective. Our approach focuses on teaching dogs rules and boundaries, then consistently enforcing them. Progress is achievable with most dogs, but long-term success relies on the owner's dedication to maintaining the training principles.
Do you guarantee the training will work?
We don't offer guarantees, as the long-term effectiveness of training depends significantly on the owner's consistency in maintaining the learned behaviors. However, we have a track record of making progress with every dog we've worked with. The training program establishes a foundation, but it's the owner's responsibility to reinforce and uphold the training consistently. Dogs learn at different rates, and their behavior can regress if owners don't maintain the established rules and boundaries.
Are you a positive only training facility, or balanced training facility?
We employ a balanced training approach, which means we use both positive reinforcement for desired behaviors and consequences for unwanted behaviors. This method is particularly effective for addressing behavioral issues such as reactivity, aggression, excessive barking, or leash pulling. While positive reinforcement is excellent for teaching new commands, we've found that incorporating consequences for undesirable behaviors leads to more comprehensive and lasting results, especially in situations where treats alone are ineffective in managing a dog's impulsive behaviors.
Do you require the use of an e-collar in training?
Yes, we do incorporate e-collars in our training. We view the e-collar as a communication tool that allows us to convey a wide range of information to the dog, including positive feedback and corrections when necessary. Our approach uses the concept of pressure on and off, teaching dogs to respond to light sensations. This method is particularly effective for achieving reliable off-leash obedience, regardless of the dog's size or temperament. Our goal is to provide our clients with the tools to have full control over their dogs in various environments.
Do you use prong collars; they must hurt the dog?
We do use prong collars in our training, but contrary to their appearance, they don't cause pain when used correctly. We employ them as a communication tool for all dogs, regardless of size or temperament. The prong collar allows us to use the pressure on and off concept, where the dog learns to respond to the tightening of the collar by returning to the desired position. This method is effective for teaching leash manners without putting pressure on the dog's trachea. While corrections are sometimes necessary, the primary purpose is to enhance communication between dog and handler.
My dog is five years old, is he too old to start training?
A five-year-old dog is certainly not too old for training. We generally recommend training for dogs up to about seven years old. However, for dogs nearing the end of their average lifespan (around 13 years), we might advise against extensive training as the return on investment would be limited. For most adult dogs, including those at 5 years old, training can still be highly beneficial and effective in improving behavior and strengthening the bond between dog and owner.
We only have one thing we are concerned about. Can we get help with that one item?
Our training approach is comprehensive rather than focused on isolated issues. We believe that behavioral problems are often interconnected and stem from broader training gaps. Our program aims to establish clear rules and boundaries, teaching owners how to consistently enforce these guidelines. This holistic approach addresses the root causes of problematic behaviors, leading to overall improvement in the dog's conduct and the owner-dog relationship.
We have already spent money on training, and weren't happy with the results. Is it a waste of money to go through your training program?
It's not uncommon for clients to come to us after unsatisfactory experiences with other trainers. Our approach differs in that we focus on achieving high standards of obedience and behavior modification. For instance, we train dogs not just to respond to commands, but to maintain the commanded position until released, even with distractions present. Our program has consistently shown improvements for dogs previously trained elsewhere. We set high expectations and work towards significant behavioral changes that make a real difference in the dog-owner relationship.
What should I expect coming through your program?
Our program aims for substantial improvement in both obedience and behavior. We use a scoring system based on a questionnaire filled out by owners before and after training. On average, dogs start with a score of 40 and finish with a score of 78, indicating significant progress in obedience and reduction of problematic behaviors. While perfection isn't guaranteed, this level of improvement typically results in a markedly better relationship between dogs and their owners. The key to success lies in the owner's commitment to consistently applying the training principles learned.
Do I need dog training as well if my dog goes through training?
Yes, owner training is essential, making up about 70% of effective training to ensure consistency and accountability at home. Our programs include one-on-one sessions and follow-ups with video demonstrations for owners.
Will training work for an aggressive dog?
Training success depends heavily on the owner's commitment to setting boundaries and consistently enforcing rules. While progress is achievable, long-term results rely on dedicated owner involvement.
Is training guaranteed to work?
No guarantees are offered as lasting results depend on owner consistency maintaining the training, though we have progressed with every dog trained.
Does Elevate Canine Academy use positive-only training or balanced training?
They use a balanced training approach, combining positive reinforcement with consequences to effectively address behavioral issues.
Do you require the use of e-collars during training?
Yes, e-collars are used as communication tools providing pressure on/off signals to help achieve reliable off-leash obedience.
Are prong collars harmful to dogs?
When used correctly, prong collars do not cause pain but serve as communication tools to teach leash manners without trachea pressure.
Is my five-year-old dog too old to start training?
No, dogs up to about seven years old benefit from training; five years is still an excellent age to start.
What payment options are accepted at Elevate Canine Academy?
They accept American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa.
What are the business hours and availability?
They are open Monday to Thursday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Friday until 4:00 PM, closed on weekends, with evening classes and walk-ins welcome during business hours.
How can nearby places assist me when visiting Elevate Canine Academy?
Nearby spots like Cafe Aladdin or Pho TiTi offer dining before or after training sessions; Natural Pet Center can provide grooming; and nearby financial services like Bell Bank are convenient for errands during your visit.
Are there nearby places where I can get pet supplies or grooming?
Yes, Natural Pet Center nearby offers pet supplies and grooming services, useful for maintaining your dog's care alongside training.
What local amenities can I visit while attending Elevate Canine Academy?
You can visit nearby places like Pink Polish - Fargo for a beauty salon visit, Electric Underground for music, or relax at Dollar Tree for shopping during your training visits.