PUPPY TRAINING: I train puppies from 10 weeks to 5 months of age. I love puppies and have a blast watching them grow. Puppy training is based on Socialization and Positive Motivation techniques with little to no corrections. I use food, toys and affection as lures and rewards (not bribes). That's not to say that I won't be firm, its just important that the overall experience is fun and rewarding for you and your puppy. This is not a "Positive Only" training outfit. I will still focus on leadership and structure but my main goal is to create positive associations with training and listening to you. I also want to be sure that your puppy has positive experiences with other dogs and people. This is the best way to avoid fear or aggression issues. Properly training and socializing a puppy is the best thing you can do. It is much easier to train a puppy and raise a healthy, balanced dog than it is to rehabilitate an adult dog with issues.

DOG TRAINING: Training continues from 6 months to the life of the dog. Yes you can teach old dogs new tricks. My training is based on the philosophy of Fun, Firm and Fair. I take an integrated approach to dog training. That is to say I pay attention to the dog (and the handler) and draw from a large tool box of training techniques. Together, we will let the dog tell us how to train. We look for ways to motivate the dog as well as what kind of corrections to use for that particular dog. I don't just train your dog, I teach you how to train your dog. We will focus on:

• Bonding with your dog
• Dog psychology and pack structure
• obedience training 
• Motivation and drive
• Proper corrections
• Body language
• Problem solving
• Socializing
• Working around disractions
• Good manners 
• Diet and exercise
• Any unique issues

Prices :

$85 -The initial consult/training session. Involves some paperwork, Q & A, work on behaviors around the house, leadership skills and some obedience training.

$45 - Follow up session. 

(Packages are available or we can create a plan that's right for you. These are flat rates, not hourly.)

FREE Guarantee!

If you are not satisfied after the first consult/training it is totally free and a complete refund will be given if you paid in advance or bought a package. I would not feel right taking your money if I was not of assistance. Results Guranteed!

-Aggression - Fear/Phobias - House Breaking - Barking - Chewing - Digging -

-Jumping - Biting - Getting on Furniture - Unruly in the house

Group classes are a fun, exciting and affordable way to train your dog. It can be a bit challenging because it drops you right into the distraction phase of training but as long as you pay attention, ask questions and do your homework, it will be a great experience for you and your dog. I like to keep classes fun and upbeat, encouraging questions, smiles and wagging tails. 

We begin introducing the dogs to non-competitive agility fairly early into the program. This is a fun and active way to bond with your dog while building confidence and trust. 

I always remind people that being in class is a huge distraction and not to get frustrated if their dog doesn't perform as well in class as they do at home. Some of you may want to do a private session before or in tandem with the group class, but many of you may find that the group classes provide you with all of the tools you will need to be a great dog handler as well as a dog lover.

• Basic, Intermediate and Advanced Obedience
• Agility (non-competitive)
• Proper Greetings
• Socializing
• Working Around Major Distractions
• Real World Training
• Off Leash Training

See Calendar page for dates, times, locations, prices, etc.

Going for a daily walk should be the cornerstone of any dog's routine. It provides not only physical exercise but mental stimulation as well. Done properly, it will serve to establish your leadership, drain your dog's energy, and build a strong bond between you and your dog.

Whether you are going away, have a hectic schedule, are unable to meet your dog's exercise needs or just want a well trained, well mannered dog, I am here to help.

As a trainer I always suggest my clients walk their dogs at least 30 min. everyday. That is not always possible so I am now offering dog walking services. When you are unable I would be glad to make sure they are getting out in the world, exploring and exercising.

I also offer Training and Intensified Exercise with the walks for those who want and need it. I can:

• Teach you to properly walk your dog (no pulling)
• Walk your dog for you when you are unable
• Bike with high energy dogs
• Train your dog on the walk
• Walk and feed your dog while you are away
  

"Turn Key" dog training means that I will train your dog for you, but, it will require your participation in occasional transfer sessions and following through. There are a variety of ways to do this and prices will vary accordingly. Please contact me for a free phone consultation to see what will work for you.  Some of the things your dogs will learn include:

• To Walk Without Pulling
• Basic to advanced obedience
• Good manners and socializing skills
• To play fetch (which means bring it back and give it back)
• Run along with a bicycle
• Modification of behavior issues

Prices (May vary depending on your needs and location)

Walking/Pet Sitting = $20 per guaranteed 30 min. walk in the South County Area. There is no extra fee for training or biking during the session.

"Turn-Key" Training (a.k.a. Board and Train or Boot Camp) = $100 per day for week 1, $75 per day for week 2, $50 per day for weeks 3 and beyond.

I am always happy to customize a plan to fit your needs.

Once a month or so we do a group dog hike. These are a lot of fun and are a great way to bond with and socialize your dog. Please go to the Calendar page on this site and/or sign up for the email list for updates on the next event. Just email chad@thrivingcanine.com and say add me to the list.