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pet care company in Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
Which areas of Sydney do you work in?
Our services are offered all across Sydney. We have clients in the:
- Inner City / City Centre
- Eastern Suburbs
- Inner West
- Lower North Shore
- Upper North Shore
- Northern Beaches
- Hills District
- Western Sydney
- South Sydney / St George
What if I am not in Sydney?
We help support clients all over the world through our online training. We even have clients in Sydney who prefer to learn online only. Please join our community to see what is available. Our Community
What is the ethos behind your dog training?
Developing a well behaved dog has 2 parts: dog psychology & dog training. We focus first on understanding your dog and getting them to choose to follow and listen to us. When dogs aren't making all the decisions, they calm down and relax, making them far more receptive to training. To do this, we don't need to use force, fear or aggression. In fact the opposite. Whether dealing with barking, leash pulling, jumping, or aggression, these behaviours typically stem from dogs being too excited, reactive, and emotional. The key is getting them to turn to you and listen when it matters. Once they're calm and looking to you for guidance, you can effectively show them how to behave.
In short: before you train the dog, you need to win their mind.
What qualifications do you have?
All our team members are required to pass AFP background checks before working with us as well as sitting and passing the Red Cross Pet First Aid Australia course. I trained under Dan Adbelnoor and graduate from the Dog Trainer Academy whilst also being a Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS) from Pet Sitters International.
Can you guarantee results?
No dog trainer or behaviourist can guarantee outcomes in a given timeframe unless they are willing to use unethical methods (eg shock collars etc). As a completely dog training organisation, we would never use these methods. There are 4 important factors when it comes to training:
- Your ability to be consistent (the most important)
- Your personality
- Your dog's breed
- Your dog's background We always tell our clients that if you follow our training, are patient and diligent you should see the 1/1/1 rule. That is gradual improvement in 1 day, 1 week and 1 month. The methods we used have helped over 100,000 other dog owners to solve their dog's behavioural issues.
What are the main services you offer?
The Toe Beans Co offers the following services: puppy school & programs, adolescent dog training, adult dog training, adult dog behaviourism, pet sitting, dog walking and doggy daycare services.
Does your training use pain, fear, force or aggression?
ABSOLUTELY NOT. If you want a method like that I suggest you call the 1980's, go back there and never get a dog. We teach the dog calming code, a method based on positive action that reinforces your role as the leader in your dog's eyes.
What is the best way to get in touch?
You can always give us a ring if you have questions or book a complimentary meet and greet by following this link: Book Now
What is included within the community?
We have an online community which you can join for free. On this we offer free support for common issues and host weekly webinars/ Q&As about different dog training and pet topics. You will join other pet owners who are trying to do the best for their pet. Different modules include:
- Breed specific behavioural guides
- General behavioural guides
- History of Dog Training and breakdown of modern dog training methods
- Our complete puppy program
- Community calls and weekly zooms to help owners suffering from different behavioural issues
How can I join the community?
You can join our community by following this link
- Step 1: Create Your Account
- Step 2: Open up our community and head to "Classroom" and then follow the intro course
What is the best dog training method?
That is a great question. There are currently 4 major ethical schools of thought that have significant evidence behind them in terms of results for owners. Plenty of trainers have a "die on a hill" mentality when it comes to their method. Our view is simple. it's similar to dieting. If you want to lose weight, the best diet for you is the one you follow. Different people are likely to stick with different things. All that matters is that you do something consistently. Our method is a great foundation and has worked for huge numbers of owners. For those looking for something different we can incorporate other methods on top of this core behaviourism training.
How is your method different to other trainers?
You've tried everything with your dog. The endless treats, brain games and a range of random youtube videos with trainers saying they have some magic bullet but Nothing sticks. At The Toe Beans Co, we don't start by training your dog. We start by understanding the why — through the dog's eyes.
What are the most common issues you help owners with?
We have covered a range of issues including:
- Leash and walking issues
- Jumping up on people
- Excessive barking
- Aggression problems
- Separation anxiety
- Biting, nipping, and destructive chewing
- Recall issues
- Potty training problems
- Fearfulness and anxiety
- Multi-dog household problems
What support do I get for the adult dog training?
All of our at home dog training clients get access to: At home dog training consultation (2 - 2.5hours), Lifetime access to the dog calming code video tutorials, 3 months of phone, email and chat support, Access to our clients only community section.
How long does the training for adult dogs take every day?
The first 4 rules we teach you involve not doing things, rather than the opposite. There are no time consuming brain games or 40 point plans. All in all, this should take no more than 10 extra minutes a day for the first week and then 5 minutes a day.
What is included in the video support extension?
Some owners want to get support through our online video tutorial platform. Courses include: Solve Reactivity & Aggression, Master The Walk, Quit Jumping Up, Stop Separation Anxiety, Biting/Nipping/Chewing, Won't Come Or Listen, Excessive Barking Be Gone, Fearful or Hyperactive Dogs, Potty Training Troubles, New Puppy Nightmares.
Are there any examples when your training has not worked?
Any trainer or behaviourist that tells you they have a 100% record is bending some truths. Our methods don't require much: 5 minutes of extra work a day, a calm mindset, patience and most importantly, consistency. Success depends heavily on owner commitment and consistency.
What is included in the puppy program? (Short Version)
Our puppy program includes: 4 x 1 hour group puppy school sessions, 2 hour at home 1:1 puppy training, Lifetime access to 28 module online puppy program, 6 months of support, Lifetime access to the dog calming code, Pictures and goodies, Breed specific guides, Equipment where required.
What is included in the puppy program (long version)
Our puppy program includes the following:
- Initial Home Puppy Consult: We come and meet you and your puppy in your own home. We can help with how to set up your puppy area's and with issues such as toileting and teething.
- Access a 4 Week Puppy School (puppy age 12 - 16 weeks): Our 4 week puppy school covers socialisation, behaviourism, command training and owner education. 4 x 50 minute puppy classes between 12 and 16 weeks covering everything that you need to know
- Choose Your Support Level: Choose between our different levels of support to access more 1:1 training, individual phone support and lifetime access. Choose between Silver, Gold and Platinum. Common issues we support on are recall, calm walking, toilet training, separation anxiety, barking and how to teach your children good habits around your dog
- Access Our Complete Puppy Program: Our full program contains 28 modules to give you the confidence that you can solve any problem with your puppy. From toileting issues, to breed specific challenges and week by week routines
- Access Our Behavioural And Breed Specific Courses: We identify the most common issues with breeds and how to solve them as well as 20+ other behavioural issues
- Your Puppy Team Cohort: Everyone who joins the program, joins in one of our cohorts. You can ask people how they solved problems or just vent that yor puppy won't stop crying at night.
- Lifetime Calming Code Access (Though Online Dog Trainer): Receive lifetime access to the Dog Calming Code as soon as you sign up for the course
- Phone, Chat and Group Chat Support Through The Community: All our programs comes with ongoing support through our online community. You can also get one-to-one phone and text support on some of our advanced programs
- Additional Support: Workshops: We offer additional support through access to our Video Tutorial Platform which includes 4 Puppy Specific Courses and tutorials on solving 10 specific behavioural challenges
- Additional Video Support: Owners that select our "Platinum" program receive 6 months free access to our video tutorial database with over 300+ videos including 4 Puppy Specific Courses and tutorials on solving 10 specific behavioural challenges
- During sessions, if required, we will also provide equipment such as front pull harnesses and long lines
What comes with the puppy program?
The Toe Beans Co offers our Complete Puppy Program which includes: a 4 week group puppy school, 1:1 sessions, access to our 26 module online training course covering every element of puppy development with breed specific support up to 8 months old and 6 months community and phone support.
Are there age limits for puppy school?
You can start our puppy program at any age. Your puppy must be 11 - 13 weeks old to start puppy school and have received their second vaccination.
Do you offer fully private puppy training?
All of our puppy programs come with at least 1 x at home one to one session included. We are able to offer a full one to one experience for clients that are able to prove they can fully socialise their dog outside of our training.
Is group training included in the price?
The group class element of our puppy programs are 4 weeks long. They are 45 - 60 minutes once per week between 12 and 16 weeks old. The overall course lasts 6 months.
What should I bring to puppy school?
To puppy training classes, you should bring a collar and leash, your puppy's favourite treats, a couple of their favourite toys, a water bowl, and any necessary vaccination documents.
How long do puppy training classes last?
The group class element of our puppy programs are 4 weeks long. They are 45 - 60 minutes once per week. The overall course lasts 6 months.
How do I sign up for the program?
Getting enrolled in the program is simple. Go to our puppy page and decide your level of support. Once you have decided this choose your puppy school date, and then you will be asked to book in for your 1:1 sessions.
What age should I start puppy training?
We recommend that your puppy starts training as early as possible. Our program runs from day 1 at home up until they are 8 months. For the group puppy school your puppy must be 11 - 13 weeks old and have received their second vaccination.
What support comes as standard?
You receive ongoing online, phone and community support including our 26 module course up until they are 8 months. If your dog is older than 16 weeks we offer an adolescent program with additional 1:1 sessions.
Can I get more detail on your puppy school?
The puppy school is 4 consecutive weeks, sessions last up to 1 hour with up to 10 puppies. Covers behaviourism, command training, socialisation and owner education. Must be 12-16 weeks to attend.
What topics are covered in the online course?
The online course covers 25+ modules including: Am I Ready For A Puppy, Choosing The Right Puppy, Preparing Your Home, 8-24 Week Reference Guide, Gotcha Day & First 24 Hours, 5 Golden Rules, Working With Your Vet, Command Training Foundations, Common Puppy Problems, Puppy School weeks 12-16, Adolescent phases, Breed-Specific Behaviour, Health & First Aid, and more.
My Puppy is Already 12/14/16 etc weeks old. Can I Still Join?
Absolutely. You can join the course at any time. Your puppy must be 12/13 weeks old to start the puppy school for safety reasons. You can still view the online puppy school videos at any age.
Why don't you offer puppy school only?
Based on client feedback, many dogs that received a gold star at puppy school still had issues months later. Helping your puppy develop is far more than just puppy school — it is just a piece of the puzzle.
How do we match puppies for puppy school?
We match dogs based on their relative size and age, while maintaining a good mix of breeds in all classes.
What are the different levels of support you offer for puppy school?
We offer 3 levels: Silver (standard - includes 1:1 home session and support), Gold (Silver + 2 additional home training sessions), Platinum (most extensive - additional 1:1 sessions, dedicated phone support and lifetime program access, only 2-5 clients accepted at any time).
How long do training sessions last?
For adult dog training, sessions are a minimum of 2 hours. For puppy programs: 1:1 sessions last 90 minutes to 2 hours, group sessions around 1 hour.
What is the length of the puppy program course?
The program covers your puppy's first 6 months, from before arrival through to 6-8 months old. The 4-week in-person Puppy School runs when your puppy is 12-16 weeks old.
Is the community really free?
Yes, absolutely. You can access all of them through our free community where we also host weekly dog training zoom calls. You can stay as long as you like.
What is the purpose of the community?
Our community exists to help improve owner education across the world. We believe better-educated owners are more likely to have the relationship with their pet they have always dreamed of.
What if I cannot find my dog breed?
Don't panic. We have worked with a long tail of rarer breeds and are happy to write guides if you need help. Join the community and ask.
What is the best dog training method for me?
There are 4 major schools: Pragmatic Positive Trainers, Relational Leadership (Us), Scientific Conditioners, and Empathetic Trainers. All have helped hundreds of thousands of people. Join our community and we can help you find which suits you best.
Who are Homeward Bound Hounds?
Homeward Bound Hounds are a New South Wales based Greyhound rescue. The Toe Beans Co provides free services for recent adopters, both in person and online.
I don't have a dog yet. Can I join?
Absolutely. Choosing the right dog and getting prepared is one of the most undervalued time periods in dog ownership. We have breed guides, lifestyle quizzes and financial readiness assessments.
Are there any dog breeds you do not work with?
No. We work with all breeds regardless of size, temperament or reputation.
Do you work with cats?
Absolutely. Cat training is becoming far more common nowadays and we are happy to help with set up and behaviour.
I adopted a slightly older rescue, can you help?
If you have a rescue and are looking for support, we can absolutely help. Rescue dogs are usually too old for puppy school but you can join the adolescent program (8 months+).
What does your adolescent puppy program teach?
The adolescent program teaches dog psychology, dog behaviourism and dog training. We combine our Adult Dog Training method with the online puppy program to cover all common adolescent behavioural issues.
What does the entire adolescent program include?
Includes: 2 x 1:1 home training sessions (2-2.5 hrs each), 28-module complete puppy program, behavioural and breed specific courses, lifetime Calming Code access, community and phone support, additional video workshops, and equipment if necessary.
How do I pick a service?
For all of our services you will find an in-built calendar to allow you to pick the time you want. If you run into difficulties please get in touch.
How long do you dog sit for?
Dog sitting can last from 1 hour to an entire day. As it is one on one dog sitting we can help with training or take your dog out for playtime.
Do you help out with puppy sitting?
This is a very common session we do with clients whilst they are at work. We pop round and do an hours training and make sure they are moving along nicely.
Do you send photos?
Absolutely. We will send photos of our play time together.
Can I book last minute?
If you need to book in last minute you absolutely can. Ideally please book more than 48 hours in advance.
Are you insured?
Yes, we are fully insured.
Are your sitters pet first aid trained?
Yes, all pet sitters and dog walkers go through the Red Cross Australia pet first aid course.
Can you incorporate training into walks?
Yes. We can work on tailored behavioural support such as leash control and recall during walks.
How long is a dog walking slot?
1 hour dog walking slot includes a minimum of 45 minutes of walking time.
Where do you offer dog walking?
We offer this service all across the Eastern Suburbs and the Inner West.
Do I need to book a meet and greet for dog walking?
For solo dog walking you do not need to book a meet and greet. For group dog walking a meet and greet is mandatory.
How many dogs are on a group walk?
We will only take a maximum of 3 dogs on a single group dog walk.
Do you offer meet and greets?
For group dog walking, a meet and greet is mandatory before any walking can take place to make sure that everyone is safe.
Do you offer solo walks?
Yes, we do offer solo walks and can help to integrate training into the walk.
Do you offer puppy walks?
Yes, we offer puppy walks to help young puppies socialise with their surroundings. Strict vaccine requirements apply.
Can you house sit multiple cats?
Yes, we can do multi-pet house sitting.
How long are pet sitting bookings?
We can come from a minimum of 1 hour to an entire day.
Do you do overnight stays?
Yes. We can do overnight in-house stays at your home.
Can you help with feeding and medication?
Yes we can help with feeding and basic medication support for your pet.
How many dogs are in puppy school?
We aim for between 6 and 10 dogs in puppy school to balance quality and socialisation.
Do I need to be an experienced dog owner to enrol?
Absolutely not. We have owners from all different backgrounds, from first-time puppy parents to seasoned veterans.
Refunds and Conditions
For more information on our policies please visit our Refunds and Returns Policy and Terms and Conditions pages.
How long is the puppy program?
The program covers your puppy's first 6 months, from before arrival through to 6-8 months old.
Do you offer free meet and greets?
Yes, we offer complimentary meet and greets for all of our services. Call +61431622887 if you cannot find a time.
What is your cancellation policy?
We have a clear cancellation policy. You can find details on our cancellation policy page.
Can dog-dog aggression be solved?
The key distinction is reactivity vs aggression. Reactive dogs are usually scared. True aggression (about 1 in 100 dogs) is more severe and can take much longer to solve.
Can dog-human aggression be solved?
Similar to dog-dog aggression but with more moving parts. This can be solved using different methods. Can be exacerbated around newborns.
Is barking fixable?
Yes and no. Certain breeds (like Dachshunds) are more inclined to bark and changing these behaviours is very challenging. For other breeds it is possible with consistency and effort.
Can you make your dog walk calmly next to you?
Yes. You would be amazed how much your dog can improve. There are many factors that determine the level of success you will have.
Is separation anxiety curable?
This is the most common issue in Sydney. There is no single fix and it usually takes a combination of elements. There is no guarantee of fixing separation anxiety.
How will my dog respond to the training?
Like people, all dogs are different. What really matters is you. With calm and consistent action your dog will improve.
What is the right breed for me?
That really depends on your lifestyle and financial situation. There is no one size fits all. You can use our lifestyle calculator to learn more.
Should I get a dog?
For most people the answer is no. Dog ownership is expensive and time consuming, especially the first 6 months. You need to make sure you are ready.
What if I cannot find my breed?
Don't panic. We have worked with many rare breeds and are happy to write guides on request. Join the community and ask.
How does the training work?
Developing a well-behaved dog has 2 parts: dog psychology & dog training. We focus first on getting your dog to choose to follow and listen to you — without force, fear or aggression.
What are your puppy school locations?
Our puppy schools are run across multiple venues: Paddington, Marrickville, Neutral Bay, Zetland and Alexandria.
Is the in-home visit included?
Yes, always. We come to your home before the group sessions begin to set up the foundations of routine and environment.
Can Alexandria cater for all breed sizes?
Yes. The Alexandria facility is well set up for all sizes, from small companion breeds to larger working and sporting dogs.
My puppy is larger, is this class still suitable?
Yes. We accept all sizes and accommodate larger dogs well within our venues.
Can you help with apartment barking issues?
Yes. Apartment barking usually stems from separation anxiety or attention-seeking. We address the root cause, not just the symptom.
Do you train recall for the beach?
Recall training is part of our core programme. We use long-line training to build reliability before trusting off-leash freedom.
Can you help with barking in terrace houses?
Yes. Terrace barking creates urgent neighbour issues. We address separation anxiety and environmental triggers causing the behaviour.
Can you help with reactivity on narrow footpaths?
Yes. We teach management techniques and impulse control that work in confined spaces. The goal is calm passing regardless of path width.
Do you work with Beagles and their recall issues?
Yes. Beagles present specific challenges due to their scent-driven nature. We use long-line training and high-value rewards to build reliable recall.
Can you help with apartment barking?
Yes. We address both separation anxiety and boredom through structured independence training.
Can you help with reactivity from seeing the same dogs?
Yes. We teach calm greetings and impulse control specific to familiar dogs.
Do you offer private adult dog training?
For adult dogs (1 year+) we offer a completely 1:1 service with one or two sessions (2-2.5 hours each), plus full online, phone and community support.
Do you work with herding breeds?
Yes, we work with plenty of working breeds and are used to supporting owners in urban environments with these highly intelligent dogs.
Can you help with apartment barking and noise reactivity?
Yes. We address both separation anxiety and environmental triggers through desensitisation and independence training protocols.
How do you handle toilet training in apartments?
Apartment toilet training requires consistent scheduling and reward systems. We provide step-by-step guidance for high-rise living.
What is included in the Complete Puppy Program?
Includes: 4 week group puppy school, 1:1 sessions, 26-module online course, breed specific support up to 8 months, 6 months community and phone support. 3 levels: silver, gold and platinum.
What is included in the adult dog training?
Includes: 2-2.5 hour at-home 1:1 consultation, tailored training covering the 5 Golden Rules and your specific challenge, option to go offsite, and detailed input on implementing dog calming code training.
How long are meet and greets?
Meet and greets are usually between 15 and 30 minutes.
Are meet and greets in person?
We are able to do some meet and greets in person but our default is to do them via FaceTime. If you are more than 30 minutes from the centre of Sydney we are unable to drive for a meet and greet.
Are meet and greets free?
Meet and greets are completely free and there is no obligation to work with us after the meet and greet.
What happens at a meet and greet?
Think of this as an opportunity to ask any questions you have. We will ask about your dog's history and for group dog walking will want information about any behavioural incidents.
What is included in the adolescent training?
Includes: 2 dedicated at-home training sessions (2-2.5 hrs each), 1:1 home sessions, 26-module online puppy program, lifetime community access, 1:1 phone support, equipment if necessary, and lifetime access to the dog calming code.
Why is the adolescent phase different?
Between 4 and 12 months your dog grows from a cuddly puppy to full size. They build confidence and many owners feel they lose control during this adolescent phase.