About The Refined Canine, LLC

Force-free training since 1996

The Refined Canine, LLC in Orange describes itself as Southern Connecticut's premier dog behavior and training source, established in 1996. Its methods focus on building a strong relationship between owner and dog using force-free, science-based learning principles. Founder Michelle Douglas is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC), a Certified Fear Free Professional Trainer, an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, a past president of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and the founder of the Connecticut Dog Trainers Association. Instructors Lise Polard and Jessica Tsutsis also hold the CPDT-KA.

Classes

Six-week group classes are $259 each: Puppy Social Skills for puppies up to 5 months, based on Dr. Ian Dunbar's Sirius Puppy Training Curriculum; Basic Life Skills for dogs 5 months and up; Intermediate Skills, built around the ten stations of the AKC Canine Good Citizen exam; a Refresher Course; Tricks & Games, working toward AKC Trick Dog titles; and Refined Rhinos scent work. Beginner classes are kept to 4-5 dogs. In-person group classes are currently on hold, and virtual classes are coming soon.

Other services

The Refined Canine also offers private training, behavior consulting, virtual training and a Kids & Dogs program.

What to ask

Ask when group classes resume and about private training availability.