Dog Training Services
Puppy Training & AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy
Start your puppy right with personal instruction in communication, socialization, manners and the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy program. Gentle, praise-based training that builds a foundation for life.
You can begin training a new puppy as soon as you bring it home. By beginning with a few simple skills you will be a step ahead of any problem. You can address behavioral issues as they arise and correct behaviors before they grow into other problems.
Puppy instruction covers the basics of communication, socialization, behavioral therapy and proper manners. Ira Smith is an AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy instructor and AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator, so the Saturday group gatherings in Henderson double as your puppy’s path to its first AKC recognition.
As with every K-9 Handler® program, you are instructed alongside your puppy. Owners learn the correct way to work the dog and acquire the skills to keep going because a trainer who only trains the dog leaves the owner behind.
What puppy training covers
- Basics of communication: teaching your puppy what is expected before bad habits form
- Socialization with people, dogs and new environments they find enjoyable
- Proper manners: jumping, mouthing, chewing, bolting through doors
- Fundamental obedience foundations (sit, stay, down, heel, come) at a puppy’s pace
- AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy preparation through the included group gatherings
- Breed-selection guidance if you have not chosen your puppy yet
Why owners choose The K-9 Handler®
Build good habits early
Habits are easier to build than to break. Starting early means correcting behaviors before they manifest into other problems.
Gentle by design
Puppies learn through coaxing and praise, without shock collars, with instruction adapted to their pace.
Group gatherings included
Puppy packages include Saturday group gatherings at Bark Park. The socialization and AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy work happens with other dogs and people.
You get trained too
Patient instruction for rambunctious puppies and their people, so the whole household is consistent.
Related training
Puppy Training: common questions
How soon do I begin training?
You can begin training a new puppy or dog as soon as you bring it home. By beginning with a few simple skills, you will be a step ahead of any problem.
Which breed should I choose?
Selecting the correct breed for you and your family is critical. Know before you get a dog what to expect and what to look for when choosing a new puppy. Ira can help you with that choice.
What is the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy program?
S.T.A.R. stands for Socialization, Training, Activity and Responsibility. It is the American Kennel Club’s recognition program for puppies and their owners who complete a basic training course with an approved AKC instructor. Ira Smith is an approved S.T.A.R. Puppy instructor, and the program is included with training packages.
Which package fits a puppy?
The Puppy–Adult Fundamentals package includes 10 personal sessions plus 15 group gatherings and is built for puppies and young dogs. Basics (6 sessions) suits owners who want a shorter start. Both begin with the evaluation and first training visit.
Ready to start puppy training?
Tell Ira what you’d like to change. The in-home evaluation and first lesson take 2–3 hours and cost $199, included in every package.
Questions? Email Ira