Playful Pups FAQ

At Playful Pups LLC, certified dog trainer Katie Roppolo specializes in positive reinforcement dog training for dogs of all breeds and ages throughout Kinderhook, Chatham, and Upstate NY. Katie avoids the use of shock, prong, or choke collars, instead relying on rewards like treats, toys, and praise to motivate dogs and encourage lasting behavioral change. Leashes are only used when necessary for specific skills, such as loose leash walking, safety during group classes, or outdoor training.

Katie’s training approach is practical, flexible, and tailored to the needs of family dogs, focusing on real-life skills your dog will use every day. Whether your goal is to achieve AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) or therapy dog certification with a structured training plan, or simply to teach your dog basic commands like “sit,” reduce unwanted behaviors, and improve household manners, Katie adjusts her program to suit your dog and your family’s lifestyle.

Basic Questions About Our Dog Training Program

What type of training methods do you use?

Katie has only ever used positive reinforcement dog training methods.
She also uses marker training, which is proven to help dogs learn more quickly and to better retain what they are learning.

I'm not looking for a "perfect" dog, is that okay?

Katie's approach to dog training is practical and tailored to the needs of the average family dog, focusing on real-life scenarios your dog will encounter daily.
If your goal is to earn a certification, Katie will take a more structured and rigorous approach to help your dog achieve success.
If you simply want a dog that knows basic cues like “sit” and avoids behaviors like rummaging through the trash, Katie will happily adjust her training to suit your needs.

If I train with food rewards, will my dog only respond if I have food?

As long as you get rid of treats quickly and do not use them as a bribe, your dog will learn to listen even when there aren't treats.
Katie's methods often start with food rewards, but once your dog understands the cue, the food rewards go away and are used sparingly.

How do I know if a trainer is actually qualified to train my dog?

To ensure she is up-to-date on her dog training methods, Katie takes continuing education classes, which are also required in order for her to maintain her Professional Dog Trainer Certification from the Certifying Counsel of Dog Trainers.
Unfortunately, at this time there are no legal requirements or standards for dog trainers and anyone can declare themselves one, so always look for a certification from a reputable organization.

What age should my dog be for training?

Training can start as young as 10 weeks and there is no maximum age. You can, in fact, teach old dogs new tricks! Katie has successfully worked with dogs as old as 12!

Do you check my dog's vaccinations or for their license?

While Katie does strongly recommend that you vaccinate your dog according to your vet, for private training, Katie does not check vaccination records or for a license.
For dogs with behavioral problems, she may require a vet visit to ensure your dog is not ill or in pain.
For group dog training class, all dogs must be up to date on their Rabies, bordetella (kennel cough), and DHPP

Do you guarantee results?

No. Katie does not guarantee results for two big reasons.

Every dog is an individual and while Katie has never failed to teach a dog to sit, she cannot guarantee that she will never meet a dog who cannot learn it, whether it is because of fear or some physical reason.
A lot of your dog's training relies on you, the owner. No matter what your goals are, you are required to work with your dog daily and be consistent with their training. If you are not, then you will not reach your goals.

Group Class FAQs

Who should be in a group class

Group dog training classes are ideal for non-reactive dogs that need to work on basic manners in a fun, social setting. They’re perfect for teaching foundational skills like sit, stay, and coming when called or pursuing higher goals such as the AKC Canine Good Citizen or Therapy Dog certifications. These classes help dogs learn to focus and respond to cues around distractions, making them a great fit for building reliability and confidence in your dog while strengthening your bond.

Puppy Pre-k

For Puppies 10-20 weeks old
All puppies are required to have started their vaccinations and to remain on schedule.
Puppies get supervised play time mixed in with training.
Focus on Socialization with people and other puppies
Discuss common puppy behaviors such as potty training, jumping, chewing, biting, nipping
Start learning basic cues:
- Place, sit, down, drop-it/give
Classes are one hour a week for 6 weeks

Puppy Kindergarten

Puppies 16 - 26 weeks
Must have completed Puppy Pre-k or know the basics: sit, down, drop-it/give, wait, focus
Must be current on all vaccinations
Focus on sharpening the skills taught in Pre-k as well as learning a few new ones
Puppies get 15 minutes of supervised play time at the beginning and end of class, and 30 minutes of training in between
Classes are one hour a week for 6 weeks
Puppies come for all 6 weeks

Family Dog I

Dogs 6 months old and up
Start learning Basic Skills
- Sit, down, place, wait, drop-it/give, loose leash walking, and more
Preventing/Resolving Minor Behavioral Problems
- Jumping, digging, barking, potty training
Classes are one hour a week for 7 weeks
First class is for pet parents only
Lots of fun so bring the whole family!

Family Dog II

Dogs over 19 weeks of age
Must have completed Puppy Kindergarten or Family Dog I
Focus on sharpening the skills taught in Family Dog I as well as learning a few new ones
More Reliable Recalls
Classes are one hour a week for 6 weeks
Dogs come for all 6 weeks

Pro Dog I

Prepares for the Canine Good Citizen Certification
Last class is the CGC test
Go akc.org to see the CGC test
Must have completed Family Dog II
There is no age minimum, but given the difficultly of the tasks, Katie often recommends waiting until your pup is closer to a year, though there are often exceptions.

Pro Dog II

Prepares for Therapy Dog certification
Must have completed Pro Dog I

Private Training FAQs

Where does the training take place?

Most of the time, dog training takes place in your home, but training can also take place at an agreed upon location, usually a place like Home Depot or a village square.

Why do private training?

Private training ensures individualized support and can address specific challenges or goals that group classes may not cover.

What are training boost sessions?

The dog trainer comes to your home and works with your dog one-on-one to focus on the specific skills or behaviors you are working on that week.

When do you schedule training boosts?

Training boost session are scheduled at a time that best fits the trainers availability, allowing for maximum flexibility and consistency in training.

Can I just sign my dog up for boost sessions?

In order to sign up for boost sessions, you must be actively taking private sessions or group classes.