About Dog Leaders

Dog Leaders trains pet dogs using the methods its owner learned training service dogs. The site states the credential plainly: "Our owner received a 4,000 hour certification through the United States Department of Labor training service dogs." The argument it builds from that is that "Service dogs are the most well behaved and obedient dogs in the world", and that the same principles transfer to a pet.

What they take on

The range is broad: "We can work with almost any dog, age, size or breed. We train dogs that have issues with aggression, leash reactivity, bad manners, skittishness and any other behavior problems."

Programs and prices

This site is unusually open about price. Board and train runs two, three or four weeks, with the dog living on the property and training from 7am to 6pm – in public daily as well as at the property – with pictures and weekly progress updates; that price is by phone. One-on-one owner training is "$150 for 60 to 90 minute session" in the client's home or at the trainer's location. Service dog training is described as a three- to six-month program at minimum, with the caveat that "there is no guarantee your dog will ultimately qualify to become a service dog." Boarding is "$40 a day – Paid upfront when dog is dropped off".

Method

The equipment position is stated without hedging: "We use praise as positive reinforcement. We do not use treats, prong or E collars." Board and train graduates go home with "a new thick round rope leash and training collar", and the site publishes the full command list the dog will be taught, starting with a formal heel on the left side.

What to ask

Ask the owner's name, and for a street address if you need one.