Private Lessons can be done "a la carte" or in a special series that teaches your dog basic good manners in a less distracting environment than group classes and is more flexible with your schedule. Lessons can be held here at the Dog Ranch, or entirely at your home, and can be customized to your specific needs.

How does the private lessons series work?

There are five sessions in the Private Lesson Series. The first session is held at your home to customize the program to your particular dog, environment, and needs. The lesson begins with a detailed behavior interview that provides a complete picture of your dog, your situation, and any specific problems you may be experiencing. We then get you and your dog started with exercises! This lesson can take up to 2 hours.

The next three sessions are held here at the Dog Ranch and last approximately one hour. 

The last lesson (also one hour) is your choice – you can choose to meet here, at your home, or go to a more public area (i.e.: a park, a local pet store, the vet...) for work with increased distractions.

The private lesson series can also be held entirely at your home for an additional fee.

What training methods do you use? 

We adhere to the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) approach to training and behavior modification. For that reason, we do not use choke collars, prong collars, or electronic collars. We do support the use of less intrusive management tools during training such as harnesses (particularly harnesses designed specifically to reduce pulling) and in some instances, head halters. Details on the use of LIMA in training and behavior modification can be found at: www.iaabc.org/about/LIMA

What can I expect at the end of the Series?

That depends largely on you and your dog! Graduates of the Private Lesson Series usually transition to Levels 2 in the Canine Academy Classes or start a Novice Rally obedience class. Should you wish to move to a group class upon completion of the Private Lesson series, you may join the Academy Classes at Level 2 under the Continuing Education plan, or a Novice Rally class for 20% off that regular class price.

What does it cost?

$740.00 for five lessons - six hours of training . For lessons held entirely at your home, the cost is $890.00 for the series. 

WE ARE CURRENTLY CLOSED TO NEW CLIENTS THROUGH THE END OF THE YEAR AS WE RELOCATE TO MAINE. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE NOTIFIED WHEN WE RE-OPEN OUR SCHEDULE FOR VIRTUAL SESSIONS OR IN-PERSON IN MAINE, PLEASE VISIT THE CONTACT US PAGE BELOW. THANKS!