Training Philosophy 

I have studied and practiced dog training for many years and if you asked me my training philosophy I would call myself a natural trainer. I try to teach and lead my dogs- I do not train by domination and commands. We are all so brainwashed that teaching a dog to obey commands-“down, sit, stay” (often spoken in a harsh voice)- is what training is all about, but it really is not. Dogs learn best when we figure out how to communicate effectively with them and really teach them how to live in your home with your family and perhaps other dogs. Good manners and really “listening” and paying attention when spoken to are essential. If you teach your dog to listen and pay attention I can guarantee you the rest- sit, down, stay- will be a piece of cake!

Classes Offered

Puppy

For puppies eight weeks to six months old. Beginning obedience and socialization. The emphasis is to start the puppy out right with a lot of attention training mixed with supervised play.

Big Puppy

For puppies one year and older. For owners who bypassed obedience and are now faced with an adolescent canine family member who misbehaves regularly! This class focuses on laying a firm foundation of obedience so owner and pet can enjoy life together.

Canine Good Citizen

For puppy and big puppy graduates. This class takes the participants through all of the steps necessary to pass the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test and earn an American Kennel Club (AKC) certificate. 

Therapy Dog

 This is an advanced class for dogs and handlers who have achieved the CGC and are now ready to advance their training skills. Advanced handling and performance skills include food avoidance, ability to withstand clumsy petting and loud noises, dependable response to obedience commands while distracted  and 100% reliability from your therapy dog when handled by patients. Graduates of this class will be able to pass the therapy dog test and begin visiting hospitals, nursing homes, etc.

Reactive/Aggressive Dog

A small intensive class for dogs who have bitten other dogs or people. For most of these pets, this class is a last chance to stay with their families. Focus is on handling skills to distract the dog and diffuse ‘firing’ behavior when faced with a stimulating or fearful situation.