Positive Reinforcement Training
About Sharon
Sharon combines her love and respect for dogs and her years of professional experience as an educator and a counselor together with a positive, scientifically based training program to help you have a well-behaved family pet. Sharon is certified through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, the only accredited organization certifying dog trainers. To maintain this certification, Sharon frequently attends conferences and workshops to further her level of knowledge and expertise. Sharon is extremely proud of her association with Victoria Stilwell and her program to inform people about the importance of using scientific, positive reinforcement training. Sharon is also a certified Absolute Dogs Trainer using concept training and games to help our dogs become more confident, well-adjusted dogs. She is a member of the Pet Professional Guild, an international organization that educates people on the importance of force-free training. Sharon has a B.A. in Education and a M. A. in Sociology. She shares her home with three dogs. She has competed in agility and has an interest in canine musical freestyle. Sharon feels that dogs bring tremendous joy to the world and deserve to be respected and treated in the most humane manner.
Basic Life Skills and AKC STAR Puppy Class
Seven Classes, $195 - Held at E Vaughn & E Hearne in Grassy Park
This is the beginning level class for dogs of all ages, as well as an AKC STAR puppy class for pups under the age of one year. The AKC STAR puppy class is the puppy version of the AKC Canine Good Citizenship class. This seven week class has a special emphasis on loose leash walking, coming when called, and other basic cues such as sit, down, and leave it. We use fun, innovative, positive reinforcement methods to teach basic behaviors. The first class is for people only so I can provide the people with pertinent information before they bring their dogs.
AKC Canine Good Citizen Class
Six Classes, $185 - Greenbelt on E Vaughn and E Hearne
The goal of the AKC Canine Good Citizen class is to elevate the dog's skills to a higher level while simultaneously providing valuable education for the owner about responsible dog ownership practices. In this class, dogs will learn essential skills such as good loose-leash walking, as well as advanced commands for stays and recalls. Additionally, dogs must demonstrate their ability to be social and well-behaved in the presence of both other dogs and people of all ages. To successfully complete the class, there is a comprehensive ten-item test that the dog must pass, covering a variety of important behaviors. Upon passing this test, the dog can proudly receive the prestigious AKC Canine Good Citizen certification or title, which serves as a testament to their training and good manners in various social situations.
AKC Community Canine Class
Six Classes, $195 - Held at different locations each week
The AKC Community Canine Class is another step to acquiring advanced skills for your dog. There are ten skills that the dog must learn and we practice these skills out in the community. Each week the class goes to a different locations so the dog has the opportunity to learn how to behave in different environments with different levels of distractions. At the end of the six week class, the ten item test is given. If the dog passes the test, they earn the official AKJC Community Canine title.
Introduction to Competitive Dog Sports
This is a fun and engaging class designed specifically for all dogs who have completed a basic introductory training class. Each week, participants are introduced to a different and exciting dog activity, allowing both people and their furry companions to explore and try out the various activities that are available for dogs. Throughout the course, we experiment and get hands-on experience with a variety of canine pursuits, including tricks, agility courses, scent work, interactive games, rally obedience, and even freestyle dancing. There’s no test to pass at the end of this class—it's all about enjoyment and bonding. The only requirement is to have fun and create wonderful memories with your beloved dog!
Capture the Joy—One Pawtrait at a Time
Dog photography done in your own home where your dog is most comfortable and relaxed! We can also go to a location of your choice. Before taking photographs, I spend some time getting to know your dog. The dog photography session takes approximately one and a half to two hours.
