Your questions, answered.
Straightforward answers about training, behaviour, online sessions, boarding and the Dog Owner Community.
How old should a puppy be before training starts?
Learning begins as soon as your puppy comes home. Start with short, age-appropriate routines and positive experiences rather than demanding long obedience sessions.
Can older dogs still be trained?
Yes. Older dogs can learn new skills; the pace and approach should fit their health, history and current needs.
Can aggressive behaviour be improved?
Many dogs can make progress with careful assessment and a suitable plan. Results vary, and safety and underlying medical issues should be considered first.
Why does my dog pull on the leash?
Pulling can be driven by excitement, habit or a reaction to the environment. Observe the triggers and teach loose-leash walking in manageable settings.
Why does my dog bark at strangers?
Barking may signal uncertainty, alerting or excitement. Body language and the situation help identify the reason.
Why does my dog jump on visitors?
Jumping often gets attention. A consistent, rewarded alternative greeting can help change the habit.
Why is my dog afraid of people?
Past experiences, limited socialisation, genetics and health can all play a part. Give your dog space and avoid forcing interaction.
Why does my dog destroy things at home?
Chewing or destruction may relate to boredom, unmet needs, puppy development or distress when alone. The context matters.
Why does my dog not listen to me?
Distractions, unclear cues or insufficient practice may be involved. Begin in an easier setting and reward the response you want.
How long does dog training take?
It depends on your goals, your dog’s history and how consistently you can practise. Behaviour change is usually a process, not a one-session fix.
Does dog training require the owner to participate?
Yes. Owner participation helps new habits continue at home and is central to Abin’s approach.
Can I train my dog through Zoom?
Yes. Online sessions can help with owner skills, routines and many behaviour concerns, although some cases may need in-person help.
Does online dog training really work?
It can work well when owners can practise between sessions and share clear information or videos. Suitability depends on the dog and concern.
Who is online training suitable for?
It suits owners who want personalised guidance but cannot visit regularly, including owners outside Kerala and abroad.
Can NRI dog owners join online training?
Yes. Online consultations are available for Indian dog owners living abroad, subject to scheduling and suitability.
Can you assess my dog’s behaviour from videos?
Video can add valuable context, but Abin may ask for history and a live conversation before suggesting a plan.
What happens during a behaviour consultation?
You discuss your dog’s history, current concern and daily routine, then receive guidance on sensible next steps.
What is the difference between obedience training and behaviour modification?
Obedience teaches useful skills. Behaviour work also looks at why a dog responds in a particular way and how to change the conditions around it.
What should I do if my dog suddenly becomes aggressive?
Prioritise safety and avoid triggers. A sudden change warrants a veterinary check to rule out pain or illness.
Can I send my dog for boarding and training?
Board & Train combines a structured stay with training. Owner guidance at handover remains important for lasting progress.
What is Board & Train?
It is a stay where your dog receives care and structured training, followed by guidance so you can continue the work at home.
How should I prepare my dog for boarding?
Discuss your dog’s health, routines, behaviour and care needs in advance. Bring any requested records and familiar essentials.
How much does dog training cost?
The fee depends on the type of training and your dog’s individual needs. Contact Abin to discuss the right option and current pricing.
How much is a one-to-one consultation?
A direct, one-to-one consultation with Abin Thampi costs ₹499 for 30 minutes (Modern Pet Parent 2026). This is separate from the Dog Owner Community membership.
Do you provide personalised training plans?
Personalised guidance is available through consultations and training programs after learning about your dog.
Can I join the Dog Owner Community?
Yes. Send an enquiry on WhatsApp to ask about joining and current access details.
What does the ₹199 community membership include?
₹199 gives you 30 days of access to the Dog Owner Community WhatsApp group for group education, training tips, Q&A and updates about paid classes, courses and Zoom training. It does not include a private consultation.
Can I upgrade from the community to a private consultation?
Yes. You can ask Abin about private guidance when your dog needs an individual plan.
What is a dog behaviour consultation?
A one-to-one conversation about your dog’s history, behaviour, routines and training concerns, followed by personalised guidance on next steps.
What is included in the ₹499 consultation?
A private discussion with Abin and guidance tailored to the information you share about your dog. It is separate from the community group and from ongoing training.
What is the difference between consultation and owner coaching?
The ₹499 consultation helps you understand a particular concern and decide on next steps. Owner coaching is practical training with your dog, either at home or at Kodand Dog Experience Centre.
Can I get help without bringing my dog?
Yes. An online owner-coaching session or a video assessment may be suitable. Abin can advise if your concern requires an in-person visit.
Can I send videos of my dog for assessment?
Yes. Video Behaviour Assessment costs ₹1,000. Describe the concern and share three relevant videos for review; this is guidance, not a diagnosis.
How many videos can I submit for behaviour assessment?
Three videos are reviewed as part of a video behaviour assessment. Share context about when the behaviour occurs too.
How much is coaching at Kodand Dog Experience Centre?
Dog coaching at Kodand Dog Experience Centre costs ₹1,500 for one hour. The date and time must be booked in advance.
What is home-visit coaching?
The first home visit costs ₹3,000 and lasts up to two hours. Each additional visit costs ₹3,000. Day or night timing depends on availability.
What is the distance covered for a home visit?
Home visits cover a travel distance of 20–25 km. Share your location with Abin to confirm availability.
What is included in boarding and training?
The package includes boarding, food and dog training, plus an owner handover so you can continue the work at home. Confirm your dog’s individual needs before booking.
How much does boarding and training cost?
Boarding & Training starts at ₹1,200 per day. The final total depends on the agreed stay and your dog’s requirements.
How long should my dog stay for training?
The available stays are 30, 45 or 60 days. Abin will discuss which duration is appropriate for your dog’s individual needs.
Does the owner need to participate after boarding and training?
Yes. The owner takes part in training and handover to continue practising once the dog returns home.
Can the training duration vary depending on my dog’s behaviour?
Yes. The appropriate duration depends on your dog’s behaviour, training goals and progress; it is discussed before confirming a stay.
What should I do if I am unsure which service I need?
Talk to Abin about your dog, location and goals. He can help you choose an appropriate starting point.
Not sure which service is right for your dog?
Talk to AbinStill unsure what your dog needs?
Tell us what you’re seeing. We’ll help you find the right next step.
