About Dogs By Melissa

Obedience training in Punta Gorda

Dogs by Melissa is a dog training business at 801 Solana Loop in Punta Gorda, started in 2015 and serving Southwest Florida communities including Port Charlotte, Englewood, North Port, Cape Coral, North Fort Myers, Arcadia, Deep Creek and Gulf Cove. Founder Melissa has been involved in dog sports for over 20 years, has judged the sport of IGP since 2011 and worked as a veterinary technician before starting the business. Trainer Jacquye is an AKC Canine Good Citizen and AKC Trick Dog evaluator and a certified dog fitness trainer.

Method

The business uses a balanced approach built on communication, respect and consistency, following three principles: timing, consistency and motivation. In the main program, a remote training collar is introduced once a dog performs its commands on leash.

Programs

Puppy lessons for 8 to 15 weeks cover imprinting, markers and clicker, manners, house breaking, crate training, biting and barking. The 10 Week Private Lessons for dogs 16 weeks and older meet weekly in parks and teach heel, sit, down, stay, recall and place under heavy distractions. The 3 Week In Kennel Training program trains the dog with the team and ends with an exit lesson. Baby on Board prepares graduates for a new baby, and an internship program trains new dog trainers.

What owners say

One client, Diana Wrisley Black, wrote: "Melissa and Jackie guided me in 10 easy lessons to achieve a well behave companion."