The Fast Track course is a requirement for safety purposes. During these walks, your trainer will teach your dog the skills necessary to enjoy group hikes safely. In the woods there are prey animals, other dogs, people, bikers, electric scooters, and many other distractions. We do not allow our hikers to chase or approach others and we do not let off-leash dogs charge members of our group. Safety is our number one priority. This means that we will not compromise on our recommendations if your trainer deems that your dog needs more than the 9-session minimum, or more intensive training, before joining group hikes. We also do not guarantee that all dogs are a good fit for group hikes. Initial recommendations and a joint decision will be made between you and your trainer during your initial consultation. The private training session is required to teach you what your dog has learned so you can reinforce it, and your dog is just as well behaved on hikes with you as when hiking with us!