We recognize that puppy owners have to weigh the risks of socialization against their puppy’s vulnerability to disease.
Two sets of vaccinations and a first deworming are required prior to attending. Please bring proof with you to the first class. A vet receipt is fine.
We also ask that puppies be kept up-to-date on vaccines throughout the class.
If your puppy shows any signs of illness, please keep your puppy home and let us know how your puppy is feeling.
We maintain contacts with many veterinarians in the area to stay up to date about any local health concerns.
We have set the criteria for attendance in our puppy classes based on position statements from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association (JAHA), the American Kennel Club (AKC), and the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB). All of these organizations encourage owners to attend group classes with their puppies to promote socialization behavior and help prevent behavioral problems.
Tailored, Small Classes
Training with Intent | Adjusted for every dog as needed | Focused on your goals
We tailor each class to meet the unique needs of both the people and their dogs—these are not cookie-cutter sessions. Our classes are designed to a much higher standard!
There is an outline and planned topics, then we adjust the pace and focus based on your specific goals. That’s why we keep class sizes small.
We focus on the challenges you’re facing and what you hope to achieve, ensuring that each dog’s individuality is considered. Our priority is for every dog to make meaningful progress throughout the course.
How We Train
30+ years experience
Training with Intent | Adjusted for every dog as needed | Focused on your goals
Experience & Knowledge
With over 30 years of experience, I continually expand my skills and techniques. I use a wide array of methods and tools because every dog deserves a tailored approach—and your dog isn’t just any dog.
MANY METHODS
My training style blends multiple methods, with a focus on concept-based training as well as lure-and-reward techniques.
ADAPTABILITY
Dog training is like a two-way conversation; you communicate, the dog reacts to you, you react to the dog. Skilled training requires listening as well as adjusting to react appropriately.
CLARITY
The clearer the message, the faster and better your dog can learn. Good training simplifies the message, making it easier for dogs to understand and succeed.
GOOD CHOICES
My goal is to set your dog up for success by encouraging good choices, like waiting calmly at doors or staying out of the trash. The goal is to reinforce and reward those positive decisions.
HABIT BUILDING
Building strong, lasting habits is the foundation for long-term success. Our goal is for your dog to be a wonderful, easy companion—whatever that looks like to you!
MAKE IT FUN
The best training results in a dog that’s enthusiastic about following commands. I aim to make training enjoyable for you and your dog both so these new habits are lifelong.
Classes combine talking, demonstrating, and practice. While the humans talk, dogs have the opportunity to practice calming themselves and self control around other people and dogs. Then you and your dog practice new exercises and communicating together. We’re here to help both you and your dog.