Dogs Trust USA recognizes the need for affordable behavioral and training support in the community. We believe that Dog School will help raise awareness of dog behavior, strengthen the bond between owners and their dogs and help to address and prevent the development of unwanted or problematic behaviors. We are hopeful that this service will improve the welfare of dogs in the USA, both by providing owners with support in the home environment and by reducing the number of dogs being relinquished for behavioral reasons.
Our training classes are aimed at giving you information and skills that you can apply to your puppy’s behavior in any situation. If you have an existing issue that you require help with please contact us and describe the problems you are having. It may be possible for us to help you in a class setting, or it may be that your coach will recommend a one on one session with a trainer or behaviorist. We will aim to give you the advice that we believe will be of the greatest benefit to you and your dog. In some cases, the class environment may not be the most suitable for your dog, in which case we will always strive to offer an alternative plan of action!
We aim to teach you to understand how your dog communicates and learns in a fun, interactive environment. We will support you in developing the skills needed to help them become happy, confident, well behaved canine citizens. We will achieve this through practical training and support for both you and your dog.
Anybody who is involved in the care of your dog is encouraged to come along to class, including children. Please bear in mind that your coaches will be talking to the class on a group level to teach you valuable key messages about behavior, so it is important that anybody attending is able to listen quietly. Let your coach know if you have any special requirements. To make sure you can concentrate on training your puppy, we would ask that you leave any other pets (including other dogs)in a different room in your home.
We only use positive training methods supported by the most up to date research on dog behavior. We will never use methods that intimidate or harm your dog.
Please have the following to hand for each class: your dog’s bed/blanket, a selection of your dog’s favorite treats and one or two of his/her favorite toys.
Yes! Please feel free to contact your coach between classes if you would like further support or have any questions. The best way of getting in touch is via email so that your coach has the time to give your response their full attention. Your coach will advise you on the best course of action. They should be able to provide you with some basic advice that you can put in place straight away and may recommend a one on one session if you require more in depth behavioral or training support.
Please try to let your coach know as soon as possible if you are unable to attend a class. You will be provided with the training guide for the week you missed so that you can catch up at home. We are not able to offer replacement classes or refunds but will help you catch up in time for the following class. If you require help in understanding or practising the guide for the week you missed get in touch with your coach for advice.
Our classes are in four locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Wantagh. Venue space has been kindly donated by either one of our existing partner organisations, or a local dog-friendly business.
Yes our 4 week course is a set price of $99. Whether you attend in person or virtually, you’ll receive the same great advice and support from our coaches, as well as 24/7 access to our online support hub