Positive, Reward Based Dog Training @ The Behavior Barn!

The Behavior Barn offers dog owners a unique opportunity to develop your dog into a well behaved family companion. Our training method is based on canine learning theory. Canine learning theory is essentially how a dog's brain works in order for them to learn. We use this information to develop an efficient way of communicating with your dog. Our classes and curriculum are based on this theory and, in turn, you get fantastic results!  

Click here for our Dog Training Class Calendar

What is positive, reward based training?Positive dog training methods use positive reinforcement(usually food)to encourage a dog to repeat a desired behavior. With positive reinforcement your dog will be a willing participant and you will see how quickly your dog will change it's behavior for the better. We sincerely believe a well behaved dog starts with a positive bond with its owner. That bond cannot be formed without a clear understanding of how a dog learns and what motivates them to do what you ask. Your dog will learn the necessary behaviors needed to be a well behaved, family companion. You will learn how to "talk to your dog" in a way he will understand. 

Positive Dog Training Program with certified Dog Trainer, Ashley Lassila!

Click here for our dog training class calendar. 

Level 1

• Puppy Scouts-A 4 week class for any aged dog that has not had previous training. We start to introduce basic command, focus and good manners.
• AKC STAR Puppy-A 6 week class for puppies 3 to 7 months of age. Basic behaviors, manners, playtime and the STAR puppy test are all included. 

Level 2

• Kalm K9's-A 4 week class for dogs who have taken some sort of class previously. This class continues the basic behaviors adding in distraction, distance and duration. More emphasis on staying calm and focusing around distractions. We work on walking well on a leash and greeting strangers politely. 
• Focus Fun & Tricks-a level 2 class for all ages, this class brings focus exercises, boundary games, recall games and fun tricks to keep your dog busy in the winter. 

Focus Fun photos                      

K9 Fitness photos            

Level 3

• Off Leash Recall Games-A 4 week class that brings games and activities that orient your dog back to you in all situations. Dogs learn multiple games that help them focus and respond to you, with the goal of being able to enjoy life off leash. 
• K9 Partners-This 4 week class is a continuation of Kalm K9's where we will take our skills out in public.
• AKC Canine Good Citizen-A 6 week class to prepare your dog to pass the 10 item test. 
• K9 Fitness- A 4 week class to build muscle tone, building on shaping from previous tricks/focus fun class. 

Level 4 

• AKC Community Canine-This is a prep class to refresh skills needed to pass the AKC Community Canine test
• AKC Urban Dog-This is a prep class to build the proper skills to pass the AKC Urban Dog test

We also offer the following 

• AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Class(6 weeks) and testing
• AKC Canine Good Citizen testing 
• AKC Community Canine and Urban Dog testing
• AKC Trick Dog testing and titles
• Canine Social Skills
• Dog Daycare 
• Training consultations 

 The following are the medical requirements for joining any group service at The Behavior Barn

• Dogs must have up to date vaccinations, including the Distemper Combo, Rabies, Kennel Cough vaccines and a fecal test with negative results before joining a group class, daycare or puppy playtime. Daycare dogs MUST be on Vet approved intestinal parasite prevention and flea and tick preventative. 

Please call for more information! 

(607)687-1750 

   Daycare is available Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday's from 9:00-5:00    

Daycare offers social dogs a supervised play time to burn off energy and have tons of fun! We have an indoor and fenced in outdoor area where dogs can play and run with their friends while you work or run errands. There is occasional use of crates, but never a set amount of time. Dogs are provided training to instill manners, puzzle toys, games, and lots of love. For a small additional fee dogs can get one on one training sessions, bath, nail trims, leash walks or tooth brushing. Half and full day sessions are available. See our Doggy Daycare page for more information or give us a call.

Puppy Playtime has been cancelled temporarily to make time for more group classes. If you enroll your puppy into the AKC STAR Puppy class, playtime is included. Or consider dropping your puppy off for some supervised playtime during our doggy daycare hours. It is crucial for all puppies to be with other dogs while they are developing. They learn valuable social skills, impulse control, boundaries and how to control their teeth. The more time your puppy spends biting and playing with other dogs, the less they will bite and jump on you.  

PUPPY PLAYTIME!-Bring your puppy (under 6 months of age) to play and socialize with other puppies in a safe and supervised environment. Sessions are supervised by Rebecca, our Dog Trainer. Puppy owners can chat with Rebecca during playtime to get tips and solutions for any issues at home. Puppy Playtime is being held every Tuesday evening at 5:00. All participants must be up to date with vaccinations, including kennel cough and be on parasite prevention. $5.00 per session. Preregistration is required as space is limited.

            A few of our dog training class graduates! 

Please call (607)687-1750 for more information!

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