This Dog Training Agreement (“Agreement”) is made effective as of [Insert Date], by and between:

  • Trainer: [Your Full Name / Business Name] ("Trainer")

  • Client: [Client’s Full Name] ("Client")

  • Dog’s Name: [Dog’s Name]

  • Breed / Age / Notes: [Details]

1. Services Provided

  • Trainer will provide one-on-one dog training services using balanced training techniques.

  • Training takes place in the Client’s home and/or public environments and may address behavioral issues such as reactivity, aggression, or fear-based responses.

  • Client will receive access to DYAD Academy online courses for supplemental training.

  • Client agrees not to enroll in additional training programs during the term of this agreement without written consent from Trainer.

2. Client Responsibilities

  • Client acknowledges full responsibility for their dog’s behavior at all times.

  • Client agrees to practice Trainer's guidance consistently outside of sessions and communicate progress or issues openly.

  • All regular handlers of the dog should attend sessions to ensure consistency. Missed information due to non-attendance may hinder progress.

3. Tools & Equipment

  • Trainer may recommend or provide training tools such as the DYAD Slip Collar and others as needed.

  • Client assumes responsibility for the appropriate and safe use of all equipment.

  • Trainer is not liable for misuse of training tools or outcomes from use outside of supervised sessions.

4. Fees & Payments

  • Total training fee: $__________, due [Upfront / Per Session / Package Schedule].

  • All payments are non-refundable, including for missed sessions or early termination.

  • 24-hour notice is required for cancellations. Late cancellations or no-shows will result in a forfeited session or a $____ fee.

  • Additional sessions beyond the initial agreement will be billed separately.

5. Liability & Assumption of Risk

  • Client understands that training, especially behavior modification, carries inherent risk.

  • Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Trainer from any claims, injuries, losses, or damages caused by their dog during or after training.

  • Trainer is not responsible for injuries, illness, property damage, or behavioral regressions resulting from misuse of training methods, lack of follow-through, or undisclosed health/behavioral issues.

6. Disclosure Requirement

Client agrees to fully disclose:

  • Any history of aggression, bite incidents, or reactivity.

  • Any medical conditions or injuries that may affect training.

Failure to disclose known issues may result in termination of services with no refund.

7. Termination of Agreement

  • Trainer may terminate services at any time due to safety risks, non-compliance, or unworkable conditions.

  • Client may terminate services, understanding all fees paid are non-refundable.

8. Media Release (Optional)

Client: ☐ Grants permission
    ☐ Declines permission
…to allow the Trainer to photograph or record training sessions for educational or promotional use. No identifying information will be shared without consent.

9. Governing Law

This Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of California. All disputes shall be resolved in the courts of [Your County Name] County.

Client Signature: ___________________________  Date: _______________
Trainer Signature: ___________________________  Date: _______________

T📘 Dog Training Policies – [Your Business Name]

Sessions

  • Training sessions are private one-on-one designed to build behaviors and address specific issues by creating a communication and behavioral foundation, all of which build upon the previous. Sessions are typically last an hour and take place at the client’s residence or in public space spaces, including but not limited to, parks, stores, and events. Due to the consistency that is required in dog training, all regular handlers (family, roommates, etc.) are expected to attend sessions.

Students

Clients are responsible for ensuring they are ready for each session by

Scheduling & Cancellations

  • Sessions are to be scheduled in advance and can be cancelled or rescheduled up to 24 hours prior. Cancellations, reschedules and no-shows may result in forfeited sessions of additional fees.

  • Sessions begin and end at the scheduled times. Arriving late will reduce your training time.

  • 24-hour cancellation notice is required. Late cancellations or no-shows may result in loss of session or a fee of $_____.

  • Sessions start and end at the scheduled time. Arriving late shortens the session.

Payment

  • All payments are due up front, at the time of the first scheduled session. Payments are non-refundable. We accept cash, check, Venmo, and Paypal.

Dog Health & Behavior

  • Dogs must be in good health and current on core vaccines (rabies and DHPP). Dogs that are sick or injured, should not participate in training sessions. For us to help to the fullest extent, and for safety reasons, all relevant bite history, and aggression must be disclosed.

Tools & Equipment

Dogs must have on an ID collar, and training collar attached to a leash at all times. A DYAD Slip Collar will be provided to all clients, unless otherwise specified. Proper and recommended tools are available for purchase through website. Recommendations for tool use will be made through training, based on safety, effectiveness, and the dog’s temperament. Clients are responsible for safe use of tools outside of supervised sessions.

Training Environment

  • Training sessions are conducted in at the client’s home and in public locations. Home-based sessions serve to address fundamental lifestyle changes and habits that may hinder progress or contribute to unhealthy behaviors. It is essential to limit distractions, such as other pets, toys, visitors, etc, unless instructed by Trainer. Please ensure all dog’s are leashed, and clients prepared, when Trainer arrives. It’s essential

Media Use

We may document sessions for education and promotional purposes. You may opt out by notifying us in writing or during your intake session.

Legal & Safety

  • All clients must sign the Dog Training Agreement & Liability Waiver.

  • Trainer reserves the right to end any session or program if the dog or handler creates a safety risk.

Communication

  • Contact us via [phone/text/email] for scheduling or support.

  • We respond within [X hours] during business hours: [Insert hours/days].

By booking services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by these policies.

 

Dog Training Agreement

This Dog Training Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into between:

Trainer: [Your Full Name / Business Name] (“Trainer”)
Client: [Client’s Full Name] (“Client”)
Date: [Insert Date]

Dog’s Name: [Dog’s Name]
Breed / Age / Notes: [Details]

1. Services Provided

a. Trainer agrees to provide dog training services to Client, based on professional knowledge, training techniques, and experience. These services are designed to teach the Client how to train and manage their dog effectively.
b. Trainer will work with Client to schedule mutually agreed-upon sessions and will remain available for reasonable guidance and follow-up during and after the training period.

c. Client will be granted access to DYAD Academy online courses for further training and theory comprehension.
d. Client agrees not to concurrently engage other dog training services or programs without written consent from Trainer, as conflicting methods may hinder progress.

2. Client Responsibilities

a. Client accepts full responsibility for their dog’s behavior. This includes, but is not limited to, erratic behavior, aggression,

b. Client understands that dog training requires consistent reinforcement, practice, and commitment outside of scheduled sessions.
b. Client agrees to practice the exercises and instructions provided by Trainer during and between sessions to ensure effective progress.
c. Client agrees to communicate openly with Trainer about concerns, difficulties, or behavioral developments related to their dog.

d. Client understands that sessions should be attended by everyone who will handle and train the dog on a regular basis. Covering past lessons and topics due to lack of attendance may result in an inability to progress.

3. Tools & Equipment

a. Trainer will provide a DYAD Slip Collar for training purposes, unless otherwise specified. Trainer may recommend specific training tools or equipment (e.g., leashes, collars, crates, treats) based on the dog’s individual progress.
b. The Client may choose to purchase these tools at their own discretion. Trainer makes recommendations based on safety and efficacy but is not liable for misuse of equipment.

4. Fees and Payments

a. The total training fee is $__________, due [insert due date: upfront/upon each session/etc.].
b. All fees are non-refundable, including for missed sessions, early withdrawal, or perceived lack of progress.
c. Cancellations must be made with at least 24-hours’ notice. Late cancellations or no-shows may result in forfeited sessions or additional fees.
d. Additional sessions or services requested beyond the agreed package may be billed separately.

5. Liability and Risk

a. Client understands that dog training, while generally safe, is not without risks. Trainer is not liable for any injury, damage, or loss caused by Client’s dog during or outside of sessions.
b. Client accepts full responsibility for their dog’s behavior, including injury to themselves, Trainer, other animals, or any third party.
c. Trainer will not be held responsible for any injuries, illness, or accidents that may occur due to misuse of training methods or tools, or failure to follow guidance.
d. Client agrees to disclose any history of aggression, behavioral concerns, or medical issues related to their dog.

6. Termination

a. Trainer reserves the right to terminate services at any time if the dog or Client poses a safety risk, fails to follow instructions, or otherwise prevents successful training.
b. Client may also terminate services, understanding that fees paid are non-refundable.

7. Media Release (Optional)

Client agrees / does not agree (circle one) to allow Trainer to photograph or record training sessions for educational or promotional purposes. No identifying information will be shared without prior consent.

8. Governing Law

This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of California. Any disputes arising from this Agreement shall be resolved in [your county name] County.

Client Signature: ___________________________ Date: _______________
Trainer Signature: ___________________________ Date: _______________

Optional Add-ons You Might Want to Include:

  • Vaccination requirement (for group classes)

  • Aggression/biting disclaimer

  • Travel/transportation policy (if you go to the client’s home)

  • COVID or health-related clauses

 

Absolutely! Here's a comprehensive liability waiver template tailored for a professional dog trainer. It's written in clear, professional language and can be customized for your specific services and location. After the draft, I’ll note any variables you may want to adjust.

Dog Training Liability Waiver and Release of Liability

This agreement is made between:

Dog Trainer/Business Name: [Your Name or Business Name]
Business Address: [Business Address]
Phone: [Phone Number]
Email: [Email Address]

and

Client Name: ____________________________
Phone: ____________________
Email: ____________________
Address: _______________________________
Dog’s Name: ____________________
Breed: ____________________
Age: ________
Known Behavioral Issues (if any): _____________________________________

1. Acknowledgment of Risk

I, the undersigned, acknowledge that dog training, behavior modification, and related activities involve inherent and unavoidable risks, including but not limited to the risk of injury to myself, my dog, other people, or other animals. I understand that dogs, even when well-trained, may be unpredictable and that accidents can happen.

2. Assumption of Responsibility

I agree to take full responsibility for the actions and behavior of my dog(s) at all times before, during, and after any training sessions. I confirm that my dog is current on vaccinations, is in good general health, and has not shown signs of illness, aggression, or other dangerous behavior that I have not disclosed to [Your Name/Business Name].

3. Release of Liability

I hereby release, waive, and discharge [Your Name/Business Name], its employees, contractors, and agents from any and all liability, claims, demands, causes of action, or damages arising out of or related to my participation in training sessions, including any injury or damage to my dog, myself, third parties, or property. This includes any incidents occurring on the trainer’s premises, in transit, or at off-site locations.

4. Indemnification

I agree to indemnify and hold harmless [Your Name/Business Name] from any and all claims, actions, damages, or losses, including legal fees, caused by my dog or arising from my participation in training or services provided by [Your Name/Business Name].

5. Emergency Veterinary Care

In the event of an emergency, I authorize [Your Name/Business Name] to obtain veterinary care for my dog as deemed necessary. I agree to be solely responsible for any and all veterinary costs incurred on behalf of my dog.

6. Cancellation and Refund Policy

I acknowledge that [Your Name/Business Name] requires [insert your policy, e.g., 24 hours] notice for cancellations. Missed or cancelled appointments without proper notice may be subject to full charges. Refunds are provided at the sole discretion of the trainer.

7. Media Release (Optional)

☐ I give permission for [Your Name/Business Name] to take and use photographs and/or video recordings of my dog for promotional, educational, or marketing purposes.
☐ I do NOT give permission for media use.

8. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

This agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of [Your State]. Any disputes arising under this agreement shall be resolved through [mediation/arbitration/court – choose one], to take place in [City, State].

9. Acknowledgment and Acceptance

I certify that I am at least 18 years of age and the legal owner of the dog(s) listed above. I have read this agreement in its entirety, understand its contents, and agree to its terms voluntarily and of my own free will.

Client Signature: ___________________________  Date: _______________
Printed Name: _____________________________

Trainer/Business Representative: ___________________________  Date: _______________

🔧 Customize the following:

  • Business name, contact info

  • Cancellation/refund policy

  • Emergency care handling

  • Governing law (state/city)

  • Media release preference

  • Any unique service details (e.g., group vs. private training, aggressive dog protocols)

Would you like this waiver as a downloadable PDF, or should I help you format it for online signature (e.g., for use with JotForm, DocuSign, or Google Forms)?

 

Private Training and Online Coaching

Cancellation/rescheduling must be made at least 48 hours in advance of the appointment or client will be invoiced for the full amount. Pre-paid sessions must be used within time frame as outlined by trainer and as written on client receipt.  If Company, for any reason, must cancel any scheduled event, Client will be refunded the full amount paid.

We do not offer refunds for pay-as-you-go private training services.

Payment

We accept personal checks made payable to The Inquisitive Canine, LLC, or cash. Payment is due at time of (or before) private training services, or the start of the first class or play session. There is a $25 fee for all returned checks. We do NOT accept Venmo, PayPal, Zelle, or EFT for private training services. PayPal is accepted through the payment gateway of our group classes and workshops.

Doggy Dress Code

Our rewards-based training environment encompasses a fashion-forward style. Please note that we do not use electronic, choke, prong or citronella collars. Required items are marked with an “*”, other items listed are optional:

  • A flat or plain collar*

  • Your dog’s ID tag*

  • Leash (4-6 foot) made of cotton, nylon or leather (no retractable please)*

  • Harness (with both front and back leash attachment points is ideal)

  • Muzzle: plastic basket, metal or leather (if necessary)

For In-Person Group Classes and Workshops

Safety Upon Arrival

When you enter the classroom, please take care around other dogs you see, since some may become overly excited and do all they can to meet your dog. If your dog is hard to control, or you have difficulties entering the classroom, please wait outside and an assistant or the trainer will come out to help you and your dog enter. Thank you for your cooperation!

Approaching and Petting Dogs

Some dogs are not friendly toward or comfortable around people they don’t know. Please do not approach or pet any other dogs in the class. If you have a child attending class with you and your child wants to meet another dog, please note that greeting other dogs can only be done after obtaining permission from the other dog’s owner and must take place during non-classroom teaching time.

Illness and Attendance (Canines)

For the comfort of all our students, we only allow healthy dogs to attend class. We are sorry if your dog is ill, but kindly keep him or her at home, so as not to spread germs, and be sure to contact your veterinarian if needed. We also request that dog parents stay home when ill, and send along another family member with the dog to participate in the class, if possible.

Unaltered Dogs

For safety purposes, dogs that are not spayed or neutered are prohibited from attending classes where there is off-leash interaction between dogs, with the exception of Puppy Manners. Unaltered dogs are more frequently targeted in playgroups by other dogs because of the way they smell. Fights can ensue, which endanger all dogs and dog parents present, as well as the Inquisitive Canine staff. Please note, however, that unaltered dogs are permitted in classes in which dogs are on a leash.

Female Dogs in Heat

We apologize for the inconvenience, but female dogs in heat may not attend class.

Disruptive Dogs

In order to protect all participants in a class, we reserve the right to decline entry to, or remove from class, any dog who presents behavioral issues that may be deemed overly dangerous or disruptive, or that may be or exacerbated by participation in a group or class setting. Depending on the circumstance, credit for unattended sessions may be granted, and we may recommend our private training option, which includes behavior consulting. We have an excellent track record of success with dogs that are initially unable to attend a group class.

Biting and Fighting

If your dog has ever bitten anyone — including you, a family member, a friend or a stranger — enough to break the skin (excluding puppies playing), or if your dog has ever been involved in a dog fight, please call before registering. We often recommend private lessons and private consulting to help you successfully deal with this behavior.

Children in Class

We encourage children to share in the training process. Please observe our guidelines for their participation:

  • All minors (under 18) must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or have written permission from a parent or guardian to attend with another adult who will serve as the minor’s guardian during class.

  • Children must remain under parental supervision at all times. We ask that they remain seated during lectures and discussions, and remain alongside you and your dog during training exercises.

  • Children below age 9 must be supervised by an older sibling or adult.

  • Please use “indoor voices” in the classroom arena and do not run. “Heelies” or other types of shoes with wheels are not permitted.

  • If you feel your child may become restless during class, please feel free to bring quiet activities that he or she would enjoy.

Vaccinations

Dog(s) participating in private and group training service(s) must be current for Rabies and all other legally required vaccinations.

For group classes and workshops, all puppies are required to have completed the Parvo vaccine series.  Additional vaccinations, including distemper, hepatitis, and parainfluenza, are not required, but strongly encouraged unless otherwise directed by the indicated veterinarian. Owner to provide official documentation indicating vaccinations are contraindicated.  

If you chose/refuse to vaccinate your dog you agree to participate in training at your own risk and at the risk of your animal. Owners are solely responsible for their unvaccinated animal(s). 

Please bring a copy of your dog’s vaccination records to the first class so that we may view them; we do not keep records.

COVID-19 Policies

Our priority – as it has always been- is keeping people and dogs safe. The Inquisitive Canine follows current CDC and Santa Barbara Public Health recommendations regarding COVID-19. Rescheduling is necessary if either party is ill or has been in contact with someone who has contracted COVID. (1 week for group classes, 48 hours for private training.) Students who want to attend need to be vaccinated. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns regarding our ongoing dedication to keeping you and your families safe, today and always. Thank you for your cooperation.

Canceled Classes

If the class for which you’ve registered is canceled, you can either receive a credit for the registration amount toward a future class or you’ll be issued a full refund in the manner in which you’ve originally paid.

Refund Policies

Group Classes and Workshops

Cancelation of classes and workshops must be requested one week or more before start date of first class. A refund minus $15.00 service fee will issued if cancelled within the mentioned timeframe. After that, no refunds will be issued. No refunds for no-shows. No make-up classes will be offered. Students are welcome to send another person to work with their dog as long as that person signs a waiver and is acting as the dog’s caregiver.