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Frequently asked questions

Answers from across the site, in one place. Pick a topic to jump straight to it.

Getting started

Do you come to my home?

Yes. Training happens in your home and neighborhood. Ryan travels from Stafford, VA to clients across Northern Virginia, DC and Maryland.

Who will I work with?

Ryan Morris, the founder of Ruff House Dog Training.

What happens on the free phone consult?

Ryan calls you back as soon as he can. You tell him what’s going on, he talks you through the options, and you decide whether to book. There’s no obligation.

What's the difference between the free call and the paid virtual meeting?

The free call is about fit and next steps for in-home training. The 15-minute virtual meeting is a separate paid product.

What methods do you use?

A balanced approach, using tools and techniques suited to your dog. Ryan explains what he uses and why.

Do you guarantee results?

No one can honestly guarantee how a dog will behave. Progress depends on the dog and on practice at home. Ryan’s job is to give you a clear plan and the coaching to follow it.

My dog has growled at or bitten someone. Can you help?

Tell us on the consult request. Ryan will talk with you first to understand the situation before recommending anything.

Can the kids take part?

Yes. Training works best when everyone in the household practices the same way.

Booking

Do you work with more than one dog?

Yes. Ryan can train two dogs together. With three or more dogs, extra sessions may be needed; he’ll go over it on your consult.

How do I book?

Start with a free phone consult. Ryan explains the options and payment on the call, and you decide whether to book. There’s no obligation.

Can I check whether you come to my address?

Yes. Use the ZIP code checker on the service areas page, or share your ZIP code when you request a free phone consult.

Service area

Where do you train?

In your home and neighborhood, across Northern Virginia, DC and parts of Maryland. See the service areas.

Do you come to my address?

Yes. Ryan comes to you from Stafford, VA. Check your ZIP code, or share it when you request a free phone consult.

Do you have a training facility?

No. All Ruff House Dog Training sessions are in-home; Ryan comes to you.

Do you train in apartments and condos?

Yes. Sessions often start inside, then move to the hallway, elevator and sidewalk.

What if I live far from Stafford?

Ryan may still come to you. Ask on your free phone consult. Ruff to Ready online training is also available anywhere.

90-Minute In-Home Training

Where does the session happen?

At your home, and on your street or usual walking route when that is where the problem shows up.

How long is it?

About 90 minutes.

How should I prepare?

Nothing special. Have your usual leash and gear handy and plan for the people who handle the dog to be there.

What can one session realistically achieve?

A clear starting point and a way to practice. Some changes happen quickly; lasting progress comes from practice afterward.

Is follow-up included?

Yes. After your session you can reach Ryan any time by text, email or phone with questions.

Six-Week Obedience

How are the sessions scheduled?

The program is six private sessions at your home, booked at times that work for you.

Is this only for puppies?

No. Adult dogs who never got a real foundation are a good fit too.

How much practice will I need to do?

Short, regular practice folded into normal life: meals, walks, doorbells. Ryan shows you how.

What support do I get after the program?

You can reach Ryan any time after your program by text, email or phone.

What happens after six weeks?

You keep practicing what you learned. If you want more, Ryan can discuss next steps.

Custom Training

Does my dog need another program first?

Not necessarily. Ryan will recommend a starting point on the call.

How long does a custom plan last?

It depends on your goals and your dog. You agree on the plan before starting.

Do you work with reactive dogs?

Reactivity is a common reason people ask about custom training. Ryan will talk with you first to understand the situation.

Group classes

When are the classes?

Dates are coming soon. Save your spot on the list and we’ll email you as soon as registration opens.

Where exactly will classes meet?

In or near McLean, Fairfax, Bethesda and Upper Marlboro. We’ll pick the exact outdoor spots based on where most people on the list live.

How many people are in a class?

Only 8–10 dog/handler teams, so everyone gets attention.

Can my puppy come?

Dogs of all ages and training levels are welcome.

What vaccinations does my dog need?

Current Bordetella, distemper and rabies vaccinations.

What if I need to cancel or it rains?

Cancel at least 24 hours ahead for a refund. If weather cancels a class it is rescheduled, and if you can’t make the new date you can choose a refund, another date or another location. See the terms and refund policy.

What if my dog doesn't do well around other dogs?

Tell us when you save your spot. Ryan will talk with you first about whether a group class or private training is the right starting point.

Online training & courses

Can I train online instead?

Yes. Ruff to Ready is Ryan’s self-paced online training for people who prefer to learn on their own or live outside the DC area.

Is online training right for my dog?

It suits owners who like to learn at their own pace, dogs whose challenges are everyday basics, and people outside the in-home area. If your dog has a bite history or serious reactivity, individual help is the better starting point.

How do I access the course after I buy?

You’ll get an order email and can log in to your account to start the course.

Is there a refund for the online course?

The video course has a conditional 30-day guarantee. See the course refund policy for the full terms. It does not apply to in-home training.

Is the workshop really free?

Yes. Enter your name and email on the workshop page and we will send you the link to watch at your own pace.

Current clients

How do I book my next session?

Pick a time on Ryan’s calendar, or go to the client dashboard.

Where do I find my online course?

Log in to My Account and choose My online training, or go straight to My courses.

I have a question about my program.

Send us a message or call (904) 595-7438.

Let’s make a plan for your dog.

Tell us what’s going on. We’ll help you find the right next step.

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