FAQs

We keep pet parents involved every step of the way- no board-and-train, no handing you a “fixed” dog and a remote. Every method we use is force-free and science-based, our class sizes are kept small, and private sessions include resources so you always know what to practice before your next session. We also don’t stop at obedience. From scent work to Barkour to Cooperative Care, we treat training as enrichment for the whole dog, not just a list of cues.

We’re also one of the most flexible programs around: no waiting for the next class cycle to start. Our membership gives you drop-in flexibility to book classes around your own schedule, join in whenever you’re ready, and cancel anytime with no long-term commitment – memberships renew every 4 weeks.

Yes! In-home (private) training is one of our core services, alongside sessions at our training center. In-home sessions are especially helpful for behaviors that show up in your dog’s everyday environment, like jumping on guests, barking at the window, or door manners.

Yes. Private training starts with a full initial consultation, followed by a written summary of our observations and recommendations, and a plan tailored to you and your dog. Private sessions can be taken on their own or alongside group classes for extra practice, and are often the best fit for dogs who don’t yet thrive in a group setting, including dogs working through reactivity, fear, or aggression.

Classes and private training sessions last approximately 50-60 minutes. Training consults typically last between 60-90 minutes.

You will recieve a virtual orientation prior to class with a reminder of what to bring. All classes require treats and a 4-6 foot leash. Water bowls, mats and bait bags are optional but recommended.

Families with multiple dogs must have each registered and enrolled in the appropriate membership or class. We recommend bringing dogs individually to encourage independence and one-on-one time with handlers. This “shared” membership comes at a 30% discount for each additional pup.

If you would prefer to bring two dogs at once, each must have their own handler and a full membership.

Kids are welcome and encouraged to get involved in training! We ask that kids are thoroughly supervised and do NOT approach other dogs or run around the facility for everyone’s safety.

Memberships can typically be placed on hold for up to 4 weeks in a calendar year. Please contact us if you feel you need to pause your membership mid-cycle.

We do not offer Board and Train as we believe dog handlers should be involved in every step of their dog’s training.

Yes! Our trainers are certified evaluators. This allows us to perform CGC, STAR Puppy and Trick Dog evaluations. Please contact us if you’re looking for a test or stay tuned for upcoming events!

We offer award-winning pet services through our sister company, also owned by Jessica, RCO Pet Care. Where Sit Happens members may be eligible for pet care discounts!

While we would love to spend all that time with your pup, we unfortunately do not have the facility to board. We do offer pet sitting through our sister company RCO Pet Care. For a facility, we recommend Paws Pet Resort in Cheshire. CT.

Where Sit Happens accept all major credit cards.

The best time to start is as soon as you bring your puppy home. Puppies under 6 months of age can join Puppy Pre-K after two DHPP vaccines. We encourage training as soon as you are able as positive experiences at this age pay off for life.

That said, adult and senior dogs are never too old to learn – training and enrichment benefit dogs at every age and stage, whether you’re building new skills, working through a specific behavior, or just giving your dog’s brain a job to do.

We use force-free, positive reinforcement (R+) training exclusively. Instead of punishing what your dog is doing wrong, we teach and reward what they’re doing right, which builds lasting behavior change, confidence, and trust rather than compliance out of fear or discomfort. This methodology is recommended by veterinary behavior experts.

A clicker is a small tool that makes a distinct “click” sound to mark the exact moment your dog does something right, right before you deliver a reward. It’s not required – we use marker words (like “yes!”) just as often as clickers, and we’ll help you find whichever marker is most effective for you and your dog.

A vocal dog in class is common, and it’s not something to be embarrassed about. Our trainers are used to it and can help in the moment with visual barriers, swapping their spot in the room, and more.

We ask for as much notice as possible so we can offer that spot to a waiting classmate. However, we understand things happen! This is typically not a problem unless there are chronic last minute cancellations which we would discuss with you to help find a solution.

If it’s more than 12 hours before class you can reschedule directly through your online account, or contact us at 203-587-8857 or info@wheresithappens.com!

Puppies under 6 months old joining Puppy Pre-K need at least two DHPP vaccines and must be under 6 months old.

Older dogs require up to date rabies, DHPP and bordetella vaccinations.

A clean fecal sample is required for Day School.

We do sell gift certificates! Contact us and we’ll be happy to get you set up!

Our facility is matted and climate controlled so we can operate in most weather. In the case of a storm we may cancel classes for everyone’s safety. These updates are typically communicated via text message and email.

Timelines vary by dog and by goal, but many owners start noticing shifts within the first few sessions as their dog begins to understand what’s being asked of them. For skill-building (like our Levels classes), most dogs with regular attendance and home practice reach Level 2 in just a few weeks.. Behavior modification work like reactivity or fear-based issues typically takes longer and follows a written plan your trainer builds specifically for your dog, since real, lasting change (not just suppressed behavior) takes consistency over time.

We intentionally keep our group classes small so every dog and handler gets meaningful attention from their trainer. Most classes cap at 4-5 dogs with the exception of Puppy Pre-K/Essentials which has room for 6.

Yes! We work with reactivity very often. If your dog barks, lunges, or struggles around other dogs, that’s not “bad behavior,” it’s a dog who’s overwhelmed and needs help learning a better way to cope. We support reactive dogs through private training (often starting with a consultation, sometimes a two-part virtual-then-in-person consult for more intense cases) and our ‘Big Feelings Club’ course. Many reactive dogs start one-on-one and graduate into group settings once they’re ready.