About Merrill’s K9 Academy

What they offer

Merrill's K9 Academy is a Readfield training facility whose reward-based, balanced trainers build a plan around the owner's lifestyle. The focus is on calm behavior around people and other dogs, clear communication and household boundaries.

Group classes

The class series starts with Manners 1, five weeks of basic obedience covering loose-leash walking, heel, recall, place, sit and down stays, open to puppies from 12 weeks. Manners 2 adds in-home manners such as leave it, doorways, go to place and heeling in a crowd. Manners 3 prepares dogs for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test, given in the last week, and includes a public outing. Manners 4 works toward the AKC Advanced Community Canine test with more time training in public. Agility classes are offered as well.

Private lessons and day school

One-on-one lessons at the facility cover nipping, jumping, counter surfing, door barging and basic to advanced commands, and include the whole family. Day school gives dogs structured socialization with other dogs while the focus stays on training.