About T.C. Canines, LLC

T.C. Canines is a full-service facility rather than a training-only business, and it says so directly: "T.C. CANINES, LLC offers professional pet training services, quality dog training and behavior management at an affordable cost. We also provide doggy daycare, dog boarding and Pet transportation and dog bathing services as well."

The two training routes

Private lessons happen indoors and quietly on purpose: "With Private Lessons you receive one on one hands on private training lessons at our training facility with little to no distraction which is a key element in your dog's ability to perform desired canine obedience behavior." The residential program deliberately goes the other way: "With The Board and Train Programs your dog will receive intense training at our facility as well as off site training to shape good behavior in public which is very effective and your dog will be able to retain the training upon completion." Training in the quiet room and then in the real world is the combination most owners actually need. The booking page lists a six-day basic obedience board and train and a separate behavior modification program.

What the owner gets

Two things beyond the dog: "You are provided with verbal and written training instructions specifically formatted for your dog's training needs and you will also receive behavior counseling from the Trainer as well as associated outside resources." And a safety skill that few trainers advertise: "The Trainer will not only show you how to correct unwanted behavior or shape desired behavior such as: sit, down, leash walking, etc… You will also learn how to identify warning signs that could lead to aggression and could possibly injure you or someone else."

Daycare, boarding and the practical terms

"We have an awesome doggy daycare where your furry family members can enjoy socializing with other dogs from 7am – 7 pm Monday through Friday and 7am- 3 pm on Saturdays. Feel free to pack a snack." Boarding has one policy worth knowing in advance, because it is not universal: "Dogs that board at our facility are not required to be spayed or neutered, but they are required to be up to date on vaccine shots." Bathing and full grooming are available on request.

Reach

"We service the following areas: Portsmouth VA, Norfolk VA, Chesapeake VA, Virginia Beach VA, Newport News VA, Hampton VA, Suffolk VA, Franklin VA, Williamsburg VA, Richmond VA, Elizabeth City NC, Currituck North Carolina, and Moyock NC." The facility itself is in Portsmouth; the North Carolina towns are served, not sited.

What to ask

Ask who the trainer is, what certifications they hold and which method they use; prices appear against individual booking items.