Frequently Asked
Questions

General

What are Hog Dog Productions' hours of operation?

Hog Dog does not have set opening and closing hours. The property is available only during class or event time. Arrangements can be made for private access for your group.

Agility

What is Dog Agility?

From “Wikipedia” Dog agility is a dog sport in which a handler directs a dog through an obstacle course in a race for both time and accuracy. Dogs run off-leash with no food or toys as incentives, and the handler can touch neither dog nor obstacles. Consequently the handler’s controls are limited to voice, movement, and various body signals, requiring exceptional training of the animal and coordination of the handler. In its simplest form, an agility course consists of a set of standard obstacles laid out by a judge in a design of his or her own choosing in an area of a specified size. The surface may be of grass, dirt, rubber, or special matting. Depending on the type of competition, the obstacles may be marked with numbers indicating the order in which they must be completed. Courses are complicated enough that a dog could not complete them correctly without human direction. In competition, the handler must assess the course, decide on handling strategies, and direct the dog through the course, with precision and speed equally important. Many strategies exist to compensate for the inherent difference in human and dog speeds and the strengths and weaknesses of the various dogs and handlers.

How can I start Agility with my dog?

Contact one of the above instructors about an introductory or foundation class. Please keep in mind that currently almost all classes are full and many have a wait list.

My dog is very agile. Would they be good at Agility?

Yes, but remember that Agility is a TEAM sport. You must be physically and mentally able to contribute towards the team.

My dog is not good with other dogs or is very reactive, can he still join a class?

A class may not be the best solution for your dog. Contact the teacher or consider private lessons. Or consider See Spot Grin’s Classbefore starting.

How should I choose an instructor?

Either choose by the day or the week you are available OR by the type of agility they teach. Chelsea teaches a lot of the beginners the foundations need for any venue. Debi teaches primarily NADAC or AKC. Cynthia teaches AKC, USDAA and UKI styles.

Dock Diving and Swimming

Are there Dock Diving classes available?

We have found that the dogs progress at such different speeds that individual lessons work better.

How do I get started in dock diving? How do I know if my dog will jump?

First start with a strong swimmer. Many dogs are afraid of clear water (it looks like there is no bottom). But generally it is the drive to get the toy you bring that gets your dog to jump. A great toy chase is a definite asset.

How do I schedule a private Dock Diving lesson?

Contact Mindy Len at mindymins00@gmail.com to schedule your lesson.

Why aren't people allowed in the pools?

There is no lifeguard nor are the pools monitored for human safety. Our pools are cleaner than our local waterways, but we do not specifically treat them for human use. (And they are usually VERY hairy!)

Do you teach dogs to swim?

Yes, swimming lessons are also available. Contact Lee at fluple@hotmail.com to schedule. Please be aware if your dog shows a fear of the water and I can not work him or her through it, I will not force your dog in the water.

Can I cancel my reservation?

If you need to cancel or change your time, you must do do at least 48 hours before your scheduled time. I will cancel the reservation and refund your money, then just book again for the time you want.

What if it rains during my reservation?

I will cancel and refund for weather, even if it is less than 48 hours.

K9 Nosework

What is K9 Nosework?

Tapping into a dog’s natural hunting instinct, K9 Nose Work is a fun activity for dogs of all ages, sizes and abilities. Whether your dog is a pet, retired or up and coming in a performance dog, shy, reactive, or has other issues that prevent them from attending other dog classes, if your dog has a nose, he can play! Play at home or choose to compete, the sky’s the limit in how K9 Nose Work can work for you and your dog. You’ll be amazed with your dog’s scenting abilities. The nose knows!

What are the benefits of K9 Nosework?

Offers job opportunities to dogs who can’t otherwise work due to physical limitations.
Builds confidence in shy and reactive dogs by giving them something else to do.
Allows dogs to burn off extra energy through intense mental exercise.
Easy to incorporate at home and when you’re on the go with your dog.
It’s just plain fun!

What is the Connection, Cooperation and Control class about?

The Connection, Cooperation & Control (CCC)™ training system can help you create the kind of connection and cooperation you want with your dog. Firmly founded on the principles of Suzanne Clothier’s Relationship Centered Training™, the CCC training system helps you create mutual connection with your dog, while you also develop cheerful cooperation. See more about CCC here.

Sheep Herding

What if I can not come when Susan is at Hog Dog?

You can try to reach Susan for lessons in Virginia.

Do you have anything besides sheep my dog can herd?

Susan brings ducks with her, but there are no resident ducks. No cows either.

HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?

Feel free to shoot us a message! Contact instructors directly for more class information. Visit our sports page for instructor contact information.

CONTACT INSTRUCTORS DIRECTLY FOR CLASS INFORMATION!

HAVE ANY OTHER FACILITY QUESTIONS?