Game based dog training for real world results! Training for any breed, any level - puppy manners through agility. Harness your Feral and turn your naughty dog into a nice dog!
Train Them, Don’t Blame Them!
4 On The Floor Manners & More #1 (aka Puppy Class)
For dogs ages 10 weeks & up that have little to no training. Basic Obedience, boundaries and impulse control exercises are covered (sit/down/stay/come-recall/leash walking*heeling w/out pulling/ It’s Your Choice /Crate Games/Hot Zone Game &PBJ and more). we teach the lessons to prevent and/or solve negative behaviors before the undesired behavior is out of control. AKC Star Puppy test is available upon completion of this Class.
It is NEVER too early (or too late) to start training your puppy! Start puppy training early you will thank your self in the years to come.
4 On The Floor Manners & More #2
(Continuation of 4 On Floor #1)
For dogs any age that have completed 4 On the Floor Manners & More #1 – OR a similar Puppy Class; dogs should have some knowledge of general Obedience. This class will expand upon the basics, learning to work on and off leash with distractions, in order to teach the dog to be a good citizen. New impulse control games, introductions to tricks, as well as body awareness exercises will be covered. Dogs will be eligible to test for AKC Canine Good Citizen Test upon Completion of this class; Testing dates set up every other month, please contact us for more info.
4 On the Floor Tricks & More
For dog’s any age; dogs should have completed 4 On the Floor Manners & More #2 – OR a similar Obedience Level 1 Class. Dogs should have a good understanding of Basic Obedience that can perform reliably (sit/down/stay/come-recall / heeling). This class will utilize self-control exercises with trick training. Some of the tricks covered will be High Five, 1-2-3-4 Independent paws, back up (independent of handler), leg weaves, hide your eyes, cross paws, sit pretty, roll over, sleeping dog, touch, leg/arm jump, etc. Dogs will be able to test for AKC Trick Title Novice Test upon completion of this Class; AKC Trick Testing provided various time throughout the year, contact us for details.
Even if you never compete to earn titles in trick training or agility - both are fantastic ways to bond with your dog, grow their confidence, increase the dog’s understanding of impulse control , as well as great exercise both physically and mentally for both dog and handler!
Flatwork Foundations
For dogs of any age that have completed 4 On the Floor Manners & More #1 OR #2 OR Tricks & More – or a similar Obedience or Rally Level 2 Class. Dogs should have a basic understanding of Obedience. This class is an intro to performance/agility, learning foundations through directional work and body awareness exercises. Dogs will learn intro to distance work away from handler, wrapping, backsides, left/right, contacts on the ground, and our techniques for Amazing Start Line Stays! No jumps will be utilized in this class. Problem solving games, introduction to tunnel skills, as well as games for focus and commitment. A fun class even if you never do agility, all great games and skills to expand the dog & handler relationship.
Agility Foundations
For dogs that have completed Flatwork Foundations 1 & 2 or a similar class. Dogs must have an excellent understanding of Obedience that can perform off leash reliably with distractions. This class is with introduction to initial obstacle training, learning how to do each obstacle properly. Directional commands, body awareness exercises for both dog and handler will be taught; ground bars, tunnels, table, contact boards, all at lowered height may be used. Instructor approval is required for this class.
Novice / Open Agility
Baby Novice Agility
For dogs that have completed at least one obedience type class and an agility foundations class. These classes will focus on handling, building drive, sequencing and full courses with all equipment used. Heights may be lowered for young dogs. Instructor approval is required for this class.
Baby Novice Agility – Obstacle sequencing with a focus on drive, speed and accuracy using all obstacles. Bar heights may be lowered for younger dogs. Weave poles will be covered through the 2x2 methods for dogs minimum age 12 months. Dogs must have an excellent understanding of Obedience that can perform off leash reliably with distractions. Dogs MUST have completed our Performance and or Foundations classes or similar with another trainer. Instructor approval is required to join this class.
International/Masters Agility
For dogs and handlers that are proficient on all agility equipment, must be capable of 12 weave poles, and running full courses. Emphasis on handling techniques, incorporating various courses from UKI, ISC & AKC. This class requires instructor approval to join. Instructor approval is required for this class.
Mixed methodology is used in all training taught through operant conditioning, (“thinking games”), positive reinforcement and science based training techniques. We incorporate H360 training methods in all classes.
Classes held in Union Bridge, Maryland.
Private lessons available all locations or in your home
We teach YOU how to prevent & cure behavior issues
before it becomes a problem.
With our choice based positive reinforcement training your dog will gain a clear understanding of how to be a good canine citizen with results to last a lifetime.
Our energetic, fun and challenging classes are unlike typical boring obedience training. We train through games, body awareness exercises and trick training incorporated into every class! A truly unique training experience suitable for even first time dog owners!
Unlike most training centers, our group training classes are purposely kept small in order to give individualized attention to each student. We don’t believe in strict “time limits” per students; if a dog/handler are struggling to learn a particular lesson we will take our time to be sure there is a clear understanding before the student leaves that class. Melinda is always available to her students by email, phone or text for questions and input even after class has ended. *Homework given in every class - students are expected to practice!
