Curriculum

Here's a general overview of what this course covers:

  • Impulse Control (addresses nipping, jumping, Leave It, etc.)

  • Attention Skills (Coming when called, responding to name, etc.)

  • Real World Training (leash training, appropriate greetings, visitors, table manners, vet and grooming, etc.)

  • Puppy Raising 101 (equipment, setting up your space, etc.)

  • How to prevent future behavior issues (such as resource guarding and reactivity to strangers and other dogs, separation anxiety, etc.)

Instructor(s)

Owner & Dog Behavior Consultant

Alexis Toriello

Alexis Toriello, M.A., CPDT-KA, CDBC is a certified professional dog trainer, behavior consultant and canine cognition researcher. She has over a decade of experience and has worked with hundreds of dogs over the years, with needs ranging from fear to aggression to separation anxiety and beyond. Her methods avoid the use of force and rely on molding pet dogs' behavior by building positive life experiences and a strong relationship between human and dog. As a canine behavior and cognition researcher and long-time trainer, Alexis draws from a thorough knowledge of canine cognition and behavioral science, and bases her training on methods that are scientifically supported as being effective, humane, and lasting.

Testimonial

Cindy & Georgie

"Alexis of Zen Dog Training has been a godsend to us. As first-time dog owners, we were completely unprepared for the fear-related issues that our ten-month-old rescue, Georgie, presented to us. Alexis came recommended by a friend and from the very beginning has been amazing... She obviously cares deeply about making positive changes in the lives of dogs and their owners and has been more than generous with her time and advice. When I asked her for advice about vets, she called several vets in our area for us, which I thought was very kind. I highly recommend Zen Dog Training and Alexis for anyone who has a pet in need of help!"

FAQ

  • What's the difference between an online course and an in-person course?

    It's really hard for puppies to learn in in-person class environments. With all the distractions, it's very difficult for their brains to absorb information. So, it ends up being a very expensive puppy playdate, and you have to actually do the training yourself at home based on what you retained from class (and you're probably distracted, too!). Online courses provide you with written and video instruction that you can go back to again and again. And, you can practice distraction-free in your own home, giving your puppy more of a chance to learn.

  • What about socialization?

    Socialization should not occur at the same time as training. And, socialization is not just with other puppies - it's with adult dogs, so your dog can actually learn what's appropriate, since puppies don't yet know. Also, it includes people (disabled people, people holding umbrellas, people with beards, etc), noises (vacuums, cars, doorbells), surfaces (concrete, tile, grass, wood), etc. So, giving your puppy an hour a week to play with other puppies is the tip of the socialization iceberg. This course will teach you how to fully socialize your dog to avoid behavior problems in the future.

  • What if I have questions during or after the course?

    With this course you will gain access to one of New York's best trainers. You will be able to directly email, call or text as questions come up. You will also be invited to the members only Zen Dog Training Facebook Group in which you can post videos, questions, and access exclusive training resources.