• Positive Motivation, including toys, praise, treats, etc.  
• Full instruction to properly use motivators correctly without becoming "treat dependant" 
• Blend of modern motivational techniques with tried and true traditional methods  
• Dogs do NOT need to be handled harshly to earn respect!  
• Emphasis on communication between people and dogs  
• Focus on owner education and skills (we train you to train your dog)  
• Results you can see as quickly as the first session!  
• Specializing in "real life" manners and training  
• Skilled in learning methods, to help YOU retain and understand information  
• FUN!  
• Non"breedist" all types of dogs welcome   
• Socializing/free play  
• Classes open for observation, references available 

Basic Commands:  Sit, Down, Stay, Come when called, Heel

Manners:  Stop bad habits such as nipping, jumping on people & furniture, chewing, etc.  Teach your dog to greet people calmly, socialize well with other animals, and more.

General Care:  Learn to clip nails, get grooming tips. Also health & safety information.

Special issues: Housebreaking programs,  Dominance Issues, Systematic Desensitization for fears (such as cars, thunder, people, etc.)

More Creative Options:anything from fetch newspaper to jump through hoop 
 

DOG CHARACTERISTICS: Age: 12 weeks to 12 years (maybe even older)  Breed: Any breed or mixed breeds  Experience: first timers, re-training, or refreshers

OWNER CHARACTERISTICS: All humans are considered regardless of age,  breeding, gender or experience.  The only requirements are a genuine love and commitment to your dog, a willingness to learn, and a healthy dose of patience (a sense of humor is helpful too).

• Private Sessions:  

* Maximum individual attention for best results.
*  At home, "in studio" or out with "real life" distractions. 
*  Scheduled for convenience (day, evening or weekends) 
*  Designed to help you (and family) teach your dog.
*  60 to 90 minutes sessions weekly & brief daily practice. 
* Packages include 6' leather leash, initial training supplies and a safe doggie chew. 
* Distraction & socializing are part of the overall program.
* Sessions are customized to suit your needs. 
* For more information, please call for a free evaluation.


• Puppy Kindergarten:
  
  * for puppies 12 to 18 weeks old
  * excellent start for training AND socializing
  * utilizes developmental period in pup's life to maximize learning and adjustment
  * prevent behavior problems before they start (in the dog too!)
  * highly reccommended for first time owners and experienced alike
  

• Beginner Group Classes 

* Also designed to help you teach your dog. 
* More economical than private sessions.
* Class size limited for maximum individual attention. 
* Groups are one hour each week for 6 weeks.
* Separate classes for puppies (12 weeks to 6 months) & adult dogs (6 months and up). 
* Students may repeat group at more advanced level.
* Can be combined with private sessions (no minimum).
* Classes are filled by pre-registration. 

Choosing a dog trainer that meets your needs can seem confusing.  Dog trainers often use different titles such as behaviorist, canine specialist or master trainer.  Following some common sense guidelines can make the process easier:
* Ask your friends & associates about their trainers.
* Talk to your veterinarian and other dog care professionals (groomers, pet sitters, etc.).
* Meet with potential trainers and observe how they interact with you and your dog.
* Ask questions about the trainers experiences, background and current dog related activities.
* Feel comfortable with the trainer and their methods.
For more information,call The Association of Pet Dog Trainers at 1 800 PET-DOGS or visit their website at http://www.apdt.com/

Competition Prep: 
No knowledge required. Learn how to be an obedience competitor or just look like one.

Training Games:
Keep skills sharp with fun and challenging games. 

Canine Good Citizen Class & Certification
Nationally recognized AKC certification for purebred or mixed breeds to demonstrate manners & control.   Often used by landlords/hotels as criteria for acceptance.

Recall Workshop
Intensive short term class focused on improving skills for getting your dog to come when called.

Clicker Training
Applied reinforcement at its best! Precise and exact timing marker improves learning.

see complete Events Listings for details