Where is Deroga Dog Training located?

Our facility for group classes and private sessions is located at:

425 Simpson Ave, Hoquiam WA

We can come to you! We offer in-home private sessions across Grays Harbor County and Pacific County.

I live far away, can you come to me?

Yes! When you schedule a private session with us we can discuss an optimal location. We can have sessions in local parks, at your home, or anywhere dogs are allowed!

What do I need to bring to class?

Please bring a 5-8 foot leash, flat collar or harness, a container to hold treats, and at least 1 quart baggie FULL of pea sized treats your dogs love.

Optional additional items: Treat pouch, toys, stuffed kongs, long lasting chews, string cheese, blanket or towel, lightweight dog bed, long leash(10-20ft), notebook, water bottle, clicker.

What should I leave at home?

When you come to class please do not bring shock collars, electric collars, pinch/prong collars, choke chains, slip leads, or retractable leashes. Appropriately sized martingale collars are okay to bring. If you use a head collar/gentle leader for your dog you must also bring a flat collar or harness for them as well.

What techniques and methods do you use to teach dogs?

At Deroga Dog Training we follow the most up to date guidance on ethical modern practices. We do not use or advocate for pain, discomfort, fear, flooding or intimidation in animal training.

We use a variety of methods to work with a variety of cases, including positive reinforcement, counter-conditioning, desensitization, pattern games, and more.

Emotions can have a huge influence on behavior, Dax will always prioritize the emotional well being of your animal. Not only because we believe it is the right thing to do, but also because when we feel better we behave better. By focusing on creating positive conditioned emotional responses, and reducing frustration or anxiety many common problem behaviors can be quickly solved.

In addition to operant and classical conditioning, we teach you what your dog needs to be able to learn for example: ample sleep, enrichment activities throughout day, proper exercise, short training sessions, play involved training and more!

For more information on what resources helped shape our approach to animal training check out the AVSAB Position Statement on Humane Dog Training

Do you work with aggression cases or other complex cases?

Dax takes on dog-dog aggression cases, leash reactivity, resource guarding, and highly fearful dogs on a case by case basis. For all our cases that involve potentially dangerous behavior, we are lucky to be able to consult with many other trusted behavior consultants and dog trainers to ensure you are receiving the safest, most effective plans and advice.

We want the best for our clients, for that reason we refer the majority of complex cases out to colleagues who specialize in aggression, separation anxiety, etc. Cases that involve separation anxiety, human directed aggression, shadow/light chasing and other niche issues we refer out and highly recommend working with a behavior savvy vet. If you need a recommendation for a qualified behavior consultant please reach out.

I want the best for my dog, how much experience do you have?

Our head trainer Dax has over 7 years of experience working with dogs and their people.

In 2018 he started taking private lessons with his own reactive dog and an amazing trainer (turned mentor) then took several group classes before deciding in 2019 to pursue dog training professionally.

That led to becoming certified through the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers by taking an in-depth examination and completing 300 hours working with dogs professionally.

Dax earned a certificate from the University of Washington in Applied Animal Behavior. An amazing year long course that teaches about the ethology and domestication of many species, with a focus on canines.

Dax volunteered with PAWS of Grays Harbor, where he gained invaluable experience working with dogs who displayed aggressive behaviors, anxiety, fear and dogs who were just having a hard time.

He continues to pursue more education and experience, “I can spend a lifetime studying dogs, and still only scratch the surface of their complexity.”

Do you offer discounts or a sliding scale?

For those who have adopted a dog through Paws of Grays Harbor are eligible to receive 10% off any group classes or private sessions.

Other rescue groups or foster homes may also be eligible for discounts, contact us to find out.

A sliding scale is available to a limited number of customers at a time, if you want to attend classes or need help with your dog but cannot afford it please reach out and we can find an option that works for you.