Feel Welcome & Confident
Training classes begin with 1-on-1 private instruction and advanced at your pace to group classes in which you work next to other friendly dogs. You will build essential foundational skills comfortably to prepare you for real life challenges such as group classes. But don’t worry if you and your dog are not ready for group classes! You are in control! You are always welcome to graduate with 1-on-1 private instruction.
Whether you’re welcoming a new puppy, fine-tuning manners, or ready to explore off-leash freedom, our training classes help you build a dog you can trust — and a bond that feels calm, connected, and joyful again.
Through a balanced blend of structure, communication, and real-world practice, you’ll learn how to guide your dog with confidence. Each class provides step-by-step coaching, hands-on support, and easy routines you can apply at home, so progress feels natural — not overwhelming.
Our approach focuses on clarity, consistency, and calm leadership — helping your dog listen because they want to, not because they have to. Together, we’ll turn everyday moments like walks, greetings, and quiet time at home into opportunities for trust, teamwork and peace.
Training Classes Designed with the Dog in Mind
available packages
Our class packages offer clear guidance, flexible scheduling, and supportive coaching so every lesson feels achievable, not overwhelming.
Most Popular
Having trouble deciding which package to choose? Ask our experts for a detailed comparison
Available Programs
Start your puppy off right with structure, calm, and confidence. In this program, we’ll help you prevent the most common puppy challenges before they turn into habits — things like jumping, barking, mouthing, food stealing, and potty training struggles.
You’ll learn how to clearly communicate with your puppy, build trust, and practice simple, daily routines that make good behavior second nature.
What We Work On:
• Building clear communication and focus
• Understanding your puppy’s learning stages
• Shaping calm, reliable responses
• Your Homework: Practicing short daily training sessions (just 5 minutes, 5× a day)
Obedience Skills: Place, Sit, Down, Come, Heel, Implied Stay (release command)
Why It Works: This course combines private lessons and group classes so your puppy learns both one-on-one and in a safe social environment. You’ll finish with a puppy who listens, adapts, and feels confident in new situations.
Includes AKC STAR Puppy certification.
Build structure, confidence, and connection with your dog through this engaging training course. Designed for dogs just beginning their training journey, this program helps you create calm communication and better focus, so walks and daily routines feel easier and more enjoyable for both of you.
What We Work On:
• Staying focused and calm around distractions
• Walking politely near other dogs and people
• Holding a reliable “heel” and “stay”
• Building confidence through simple agility and real-world practice
Obedience Skills: Place, Sit, Down, Come, Heel, Implied Stay (release command)
Why It Works: This program strengthens your bond and builds your dog’s trust through clear, consistent training. It’s especially helpful for rescue dogs or young dogs over 6 months who need structure and confidence to thrive at home and in public.
You’ll reinforce positive habits like crate training, potty training, and self-control on walks — while easing anxiety and uncertainty.
If your dog struggles with reactivity or aggression, please see our Behavior Training program for more specialized support.
Includes AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test.
Build freedom, focus, and advanced communication through this off-leash training course.
Designed for dogs 6 months and older who have completed Puppy Head Start or On Leash training, this program deepens trust and responsiveness so your dog can enjoy safe independence at home, on walks, and in public spaces.
What We Work On:
• Strengthening recall and focus at a distance
• Maintaining calm behavior with real-world distractions
• Reinforcing impulse control and self-regulation
• Building confidence and reliability without the leash
Obedience Skills: Place, Sit, Down, Come, Heel, Implied Stay (release command)
Why It Works: This course helps you and your dog shift from physical control to true communication and trust. You’ll build advanced off-leash reliability through calm leadership, consistency, and the thoughtful use of a modern, humane e-collar system.
Expect a more confident, relaxed dog who listens anywhere — not just when tethered to you.
Includes Dogtra e-collar.
Commit to both programs and save with the On & Off Leash course — our most popular training package.
Designed for dogs 6 months and older, this program helps you build a calm, confident, and reliable companion through every stage of leash training — from foundational obedience to off-leash freedom.
What We Work On:
- Reinforcing leash manners, focus, and calm behavior around distractions
- Building consistency and confidence across new environments
- Advancing obedience from leash guidance to off-leash reliability
- Strengthening recall, impulse control, and trust
Obedience Skills: Place, Sit, Down, Come, Heel, Implied Stay (release command) — both on and off leash
Why It Works: This program gives you the best of both worlds — structure and freedom. You’ll learn how to clearly communicate with your dog, guide them calmly through distractions, and transition from physical control to psychological connection.
Expect a dog who listens anywhere — at home, in public, and beyond — with fewer behavioral challenges and a stronger, more trusting bond.
Includes Dogtra e-collar.
Keep your dog’s training reliable for life with a focused refresher session. This 1-hour private lesson is perfect for addressing new challenges, reinforcing obedience, working on a specific focus, or adapting to big life changes — like adding a new baby, moving homes, or welcoming another pet.
What We Work On:
• Reviewing and refining obedience commands
• Troubleshooting new or changed behaviors
• Strengthening communication and consistency
• Supporting new owners or family members
Why It Works: Even well-trained dogs need tune-ups as life evolves. This session helps you maintain lasting results and confidence in your dog’s training — ensuring both of you stay calm, connected, and ready for anything together.
Includes one 1-hour private training session with a professional trainer.
Turn your dog’s calm nature and training into comfort for others. This 4-week course prepares you and your dog to test, certify, and volunteer as a Therapy Dog Team — spreading joy and emotional support through structured, safe interactions.
What We Work On:
• Understanding therapy dog rules and handler responsibilities
• Conducting visits safely and respectfully
• Practicing test items for certification
• Building confidence in real-world volunteer settings
Requirements:
• 1 year of age or older
• Completion of Puppy Head Start or On Leash program
• Review of basic obedience commands
Why It Works: Animal-assisted therapy benefits both the people you visit and the bond you share with your dog. This program helps you develop the calm, reliable partnership needed for therapy work — focusing on gentle manners, steady obedience, and positive social engagement.
Includes AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test + Alliance of Therapy Dogs practice test.
Graduate Group Classes
4 classes – $200
Classes Starting April 11, 2026
Stay sharp, social, and confident with your dog’s ongoing training. This 4-class group program helps you maintain obedience, build focus in social settings, and strengthen your bond through fun, structured activities.
What We Work On:
• Practicing obedience with real-world distractions
• Building confidence and consistency in group settings
• Engaging your dog through rotating training stations
• Enjoying a guided group walk to reinforce calm focus
Requirements:
• Graduate of any ADT training program
• AKC Canine Good Citizen title or equivalent prior training
Schedule:
• Saturday mornings (reservation required)
• Since classes are outdoors, there will be no group classes during winter
Includes AKC STAR Puppy Test and/or AKC Canine Good Citizen Test.
AKC Tests Available
Celebrate your dog’s progress with nationally recognized AKC certifications! AKC certifications are a fun way to recognize the progress you and your dog make together. Most of our training programs naturally prepare you for these milestones — your trainer will let you know when your dog is ready to test.
Trusted by Families Like Yours
frequently asked questions
How We Keep Your Dog Safe
When you train with us, you and your dog are joining a learning environment built on safety, structure and trust. Every class is designed to be calm, positive and productive – so both of you feel confident from start to finish.
We keep group class sizes small for personalized attention, use secure fenced yards, and teach with clear communication & modern, humane tools.
Passionate, Professional Trainers
meet the appalachian dog training team
Pet Stylist
Kala
Kennel Specialist
Jordan
Kennel Specialist
Traci
Office Admin
Tiffany
owner & head trainer
Katie
Kennel Specialist
Madelyn
A dedicated team of trainers and caregivers committed to raising confident dogs and supporting the families who love them.
5-Star Rated
Our community of returning clients and 5-Star Reviews speaks to one thing: dogs (and people) love it here.
Veterinarian Recommended
We’re proud to receive regular referrals from veterinarians who’ve seen our work firsthand.
certified trainers
Our staff is certified in canine behavior and training, ensuring your pup is in knowledgeable, caring hands.