Canine Curriculum - Dog Training Business
“Canine Curriculum is a dog-training company, launched in July 2005 (Owned by Sean and Kristyn Savage), which offers in-home lessons and a four-week program in which dogs live with the business owners. Group programs also are offered.
How long did it take you to start your business and what was your background?
“It took us about six months to get our business up and running. We have trained various animals, including dolphins. The training is very similar. You are forced mentally to come up with methods that work without using force, fear or pain. When you work with large animals like dolphins, you can’t use those methods. Working with dolphins and sea lions helped us get into our proper mindset for training dogs. It helped with our timing, patience, consistency and communication.”
What advice do you have for others starting a business?
“We would certainly recommend having at least five years of experience in your field. Have a professional-looking Web site. Have a business cell phone that can take calls for you and check it regularly. Be sure you can get back to a customer relatively quickly. Also, you should know the area and know the market.”