Canine Training
Train, socialize and bond with your dog with AWS Certified Professional Dog Trainers.
Classes & Programs
Led by an experienced team of certified professional dog trainers, AWS’ Canine Training program offers a variety of exciting and progressive group classes, individualized consultations, programs and social hours. Most programs are held in our dedicated Training Classroom, located adjacent to the AWS Adoption Center.
Whether your puppy is just starting out on their training journey or your adult dog is ready to try more intermediate skills, we have a class for you! If you want some time to socialize your pup, or you’d like a private lesson on a particular behavior or topic, we’re here to help.
Most importantly, we welcome pups of all ages, breeds and abilities to participate in our Canine Training program. We have something for everyone!
Thank you for training with AWS!
Pop-Up Puppy Playgroup
Meet other puppies and enjoy playtime and enrichment time together!
Foster positive associations with other dogs while having fun.
What does ‘Pop-Up’ mean? It means these play sessions aren’t scheduled regularly but rather spontaneously as time is available.
Activities include play time with enrichment toys, puppy obstacle courses, and supervised free play with other puppies to explore and interact under the watchful eyes of experienced trainers. Owners will also gain valuable insight to understanding their puppy’s body language and social cues.
Free play with other puppies will depend on the dynamic of the class each session and is not guaranteed. It is at the trainer’s discretion. Puppies need to have had their first round of shots and a negative fecal sample in order to start the class.
Pop-Up Pack Walks
Stroll AWS’ beautiful property and trails alongside other training students and their dogs!
Meet fellow dog-lovers and give your pup new sights, sounds and socialization opportunities, while getting in some exercise.
What does ‘Pop-Up’ mean? It means these walks won’t be scheduled regularly but rather spontaneously as long as the warm weather lasts.
These group walks are more casual than our typical group class structure, but they are still organized and led by one of our experienced trainers who will be there to offer tips and advice.
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Join the Reindeer Games, holiday-themed training classes to keep your pup on Santa’s nice list this holiday season.
Whether your dog is the littlest elf in Santa’s workshop or if they have been pulling the sleigh for years, we have a class for you! Join us for holiday fun this December, only at AWS!
Click on the class titles for more information and to register. Reindeer Games classes sell out fast so don’t delay getting you and your pup signed up!
The Circus is Back in Town
This tail-wagging class comes only once a year!
Join us under the big top for Circus Dog where you and your pup will work together to learn new tricks and skills meant to dazzle and entertain!
Perform our special versions of walking the tightrope, jumping through hoops of fire, and sometimes just plain clowning around. Your ring leader will prepare you through 5 weeks of training for the big show held on week 6. You’ll be amazed at the feats your dog can do!
Canine Training Tips & Tricks Blog
Looking for canine training advice? You’ve come to the right place! The AWS Canine Training Team maintains a blog with regular posts, all related to your dog’s behavior and training. Learn tips to train your dog at home, get ideas on curbing unwanted behaviors, and watch videos on fun “party tricks” you and your dog can use to impress all your friends!
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Pop-Up Puppy Playgroup
Do you have a young puppy eager to get out and play? Are you looking to socialize them with other puppies and their people? Perhaps you want to enroll them […]
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The Three D’s of Dog Training
Does your dog ‘sit’ well in your home, but struggles in the backyard? Can your pup ‘stay’ when asked, but only for a short time? By practicing the three D’s […]
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Pop-Up PackWalks
Are you looking for a more leisurely training opportunity to do with your dog? Are you hoping to get outside more with your pup? Perhaps you just want a simple, […]
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The Great Game of Tug
Need a training game that your dog will both love and learn from? What about an activity that will tire them out physically and mentally? If so, the great game […]
Meet Our Certified Trainers
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Roberta Guertin, CPDT-KA
Behavior & Training Manager -
Laura DesMarais, CPDT-KA
Canine Trainer -
Brenda Horowitz, CPDT-KA
Canine Trainer -
Melissa McCue-McGrath
Canine Trainer -
Kim VanSickle, CPDT-KA
Canine Trainer -
Karen Casey, CPDT-KA
Canine Trainer
Canine Training Resources
Alliance of Therapy Dogs
Cat to Dog Introductions
Dog to Dog Introductions
Dogs & Babies
Good Pup: Online Dog Training
How to Curb Puppy Biting & Chewing
Puppy Housetraining Guide
Puppy Socialization Tips
Understanding Fearful Dogs
What is a service dog?
What is a therapy dog?
What is an emotional support animal?
Your Dog’s Teen Years
Training Mailing List
Join our training mailing list by filling out the below form. Get class schedules, special event announcements, discount offers, Tips & Tricks and more delivered right to your inbox.
Questions?
For more information, please contact our Behavior and Canine Training Manager via email or telephone at (207) 985-3244 ext. 111.