dog training

Rich started training dogs in 2010 when he became an apprentice trainer and handler at N.E.A.D.S, a non-profit that specializes in providing service dogs for people with a large range of disabilities, as well as dogs who provide comfort to those in hospitals, classrooms or court rooms. After working with N.E.A.D.S for three years, he became a certified trainer and was able to train his clients' dogs to learn over 40 commands to help people in their everyday lives. He then moved on to working at Palmer Kennels where he continued to train dogs, and started to learn grooming skills which he incorporates into his training programs.

In 2016, Rich became a trainer for America's VetDogs. America's VetDogs was designed to "... provide enhanced mobility and renewed independence to veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders with disabilities, allowing them to once again live with pride and self-reliance." While working with VetDogs, he was able to continue training service dogs and has expanded his training ability to reliably teach over 70 commands. He has multiple certifications from America's VetDogs that allow him to train a wide range of skills including puppy obedience, helping to shape current unwanted/negative behaviors, socialization, impulse control, and many more. 

Although his preferred method of training is using positive reinforcement, he adapts his training styles based on the needs of his clients and their dogs to make sure that they get the best chance at succeeding in his programs. 

 Start your puppy off right with teaching them the foundation work for further training. During these classes your dog will learn 7 basic commands (and more!) and be able to respond to them with and without distraction by the end of the course, as well as in new places outside the training facility. 

You and your dog will learn: 

Sit, down, stay, come, no, leave it, bite inhibition, loose leash walking, food bowl exercises, eye contact, handling & grooming, saying hello/greetings, leash wraps, and more.  

This course is designed for puppies 2 to 5 months old.

February 24th at 10am - In Session

May 4th at 10am - Next Session - ENROLLMENT IS OPEN

For dogs over 6 months old. Classes will begin with going over the basic commands: sit, stay, down, eye contact, etc. They will then learn recall & come with distractions (both physical and sound distractions), stand, fetch, handling, and greeting people politely. Once the class is confident with the commands, you will then work with them off site with the trainer. 

This course is designed for dogs over the age of 6 months.

March 16th at 10am - In Session

May 4th at 9am - Next Session - ENROLLMENT IS OPEN

Classes will begin with going over the commands they have learned in their previous obedience classes. They will then learn different aspects of the commands with more distractions, recall, place, heel, fetch, off, and more. They will learn to use their new skills while socializing with new objects/sounds, as well as in new places outside of the training facility. 

Dogs need to have already passed a basic obedience course to attend. 

Please call to schedule this class.

Private training will resume at the end of this summer!

Private training sessions are available for those who have dogs who do not do great in group settings, those that are leash, or dog reactive, or for parents who would prefer a one-on-one training situation.  The initial meeting is $125 and will be used to assess the dog and come up with a training program specifically tailored to your dog and its needs. Classes are then $75 for a 60-minute private class. 

Available for any breed or age. 

Buy 3 private training sessions for $199 (save $25!) Classes must be used within 30 days of purchase. Private Training Session Bundles are non-refundable. 

Dates and times can be arranged between the trainer and client. Please email woof@thedowntownpaw.com to set up your first meeting.