Real World Training for Real Life Results
We don’t train for the classroom. We train for your life.
Most dog training fails because it happens in a bubble. A dog might act perfect in a training center but completely ignore you when a squirrel runs by at the park.
At Heather’s Dog School, we don’t use a "training classroom" crutch. We specialize in Private Training in the Real World. We teach your dog to listen where it actually matters: inside your home, at your neighborhood park, and on your Saturday morning coffee run.
The Myth of the "Group Class"
Why we exclusively teach Private Lessons.
We are often asked, "Don't I need a Group Class to socialize my dog?"
The honest answer is: No.
Group classes are artificial. They simulate a "classroom" environment that doesn't exist in your daily life. Often, they are too chaotic for learning (over-arousal) or too sterile for real-world proofing.
We do it differently:
The "Driving School" Rule: We start in the "Empty Parking Lot” (just your dog) to build the engine and the brakes, not in rush hour traffic (group class).
Controlled Distractions: When your dog is ready, we bring the distractions. We utilize our own trained "helper dogs" to teach your dog how to ignore other dogs calmly.
Field Trips: We take the training on the road. We meet at hardware stores, parks, and vet clinics. We train in the actual environments where you need your dog to listen.
The Result: A "Thinking Dog" who can make good choices anywhere, not just in a classroom.
How to Get Started: The Introductory Lesson
We do not offer standard "sales evaluations." We believe your time is valuable, so we get to work immediately.
Your journey begins with a Behavior Discovery & Intro Lesson. This is a working session with one of our behavior specialists.
In this 60-minute session, we will:
Diagnose the Root Cause: Understand why your dog is jumping, barking, or ignoring you. (Hint: It’s usually not stubbornness; it’s a lack of "brakes.")
Test the "Engine": We will work with your dog using our clicker-based methods to see how they learn. You will likely see a change in their focus within the first 20 minutes.
Create a Relief Plan: You will leave with a management strategy you can use the moment you get home to reduce chaos immediately.
Cost: $95 (Non-refundable) This fee reserves your dedicated time with our trainer and your personalized assessment.
Who this is for: Owners who are ready to learn, willing to do the homework, and want a relationship with their dog based on communication, not just commands.
After the Intro: Our Core Programs
Once we have completed your assessment, we will recommend the "Grade Level" that fits your dog's needs.
The Homebody Dog: For puppies or dogs who need manners inside the house (Guests, Doorways, Counters).
The Neighborhood Dog: Taking the skills outside. Loose-leash walking and focus around mild distractions.
The Go-Everywhere Dog: The "PhD" level. We meet for field trips in public spaces (stores, cafes, parks) to proof off-leash reliability and advanced focus.
Our Programs: The Building Block System
We don't offer á la carte "menu items" because dog training doesn't work that way. You can't teach a dog to behave at a busy cafe if they don't yet know how to behave in your living room.
We build your dog's education in layers.
Every student starts at the same foundation level ("Kindergarten"). The program you choose simply determines how far you want to take your dog's education.
Level 1: The Homebody Dog (The Foundation)
This is the base requirement for all training.
Perfect for puppies or dogs who need to learn the "Internal Operating System" of a Thinking Dog. We focus entirely on your home environment.
What we build: Impulse control, "On/Off" switch, polite greeting for guests, stopping counter surfing, and doorway manners.
The Goal: A dog who is a joy to live with inside the house.
Level 2: The Neighborhood Dog (Foundation + Leash Skills)
Includes everything in Level 1 PLUS outdoor handling.
Once the foundation is solid inside, we open the front door. We take the focus and control you learned in the living room and apply it to your neighborhood.
What we add: Loose-leash walking, ignoring distractions (squirrels, other dogs), and coming when called in the yard.
The Goal: A dog who listens to you even when the world is interesting.
Level 3: The Go-Everywhere Dog (The Complete Education)
Includes Levels 1 & 2 PLUS Real World Field Trips.
This is for the owner who wants a true companion for life's adventures. We take the training on the road to proof reliability in high-distraction public spaces.
What we add: Field trips to hardware stores, parks, and cafes. Advanced off-leash reliability and rock-solid focus in "Rush Hour" environments.
The Goal: A dog you can take anywhere, anytime, with total confidence.
Which Program is right for you?
You don't need to decide right now. During your Introductory Lesson ($95), we will discuss your specific goals.
If you just want a peaceful home, we will start with The Homebody.
If you dream of hiking off-leash or sitting at coffee shops, we will map out a plan for The Go-Everywhere Dog.