We offer a wide variety of dog training classes to fit dogs from puppyhood to adult. Our unique Board & Train program allows your pet to have one-on-one training while he stays the night. Imagine, going away and coming back to a dog who no longer eats your shoes!
Our training techniques, taught by experienced instructors, are always positively reinforced. And class sizes are small, ensuring your pet gets the attention he or she deserves.
For both pets and their owners, training at Best Friends is the REAL treat.
About our Dog Trainer, Michael O’Brien:
A third generation Colorado native, Michael has been fascinated by the animal kingdom and animal behavior over his entire life. From working with the calves on his Uncle Tim’s farm during the summers- to taming wild squirrels and blue jays in his backyard as a child, he is what people might refer to as a true “nature boy.”
While owning a large variety of animals (dogs, cats- including a tree-legged kitten/cat- snakes, lizards, pet rats Larry, Curly, Moe, etc.), Michael has studied at Animal Behavior College, is an Animal Behavior Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT), and is a member of the Colorado dog trainers network. He volunteers 20 hours a month to the Hope for Animals rescue group, helping with training, behavior issues, and leadership roles.
Over the years, Michael has learned that dogs don’t all learn the same way- and not every dog owner wants their dog trained the same way. With that in mind, Michael has found that flexibility is the key that helps build the communication gap-thus enabling dog and owner to better understand one another.
Rates
Puppy Kindergarten
For puppies 10 weeks to 5 months:
This positive reinforcement class will focus on early communication and bonding as well as socialization and early puppy manners. We will discuss proper potty training methods, as well as assist owners in dealing with puppyhood behavioral problems like chewing, nipping and barking. Social and handling skills learned at a young age help puppies grow into well-adjusted adults. The bond of trust and understanding will last a lifetime.
$100 for 6 weeks/ 1 hr per week
Adult Obedience- Basic 1
For dogs 5 months or older:
Train your dog in a real life situation and your dog becomes reliable in real life situations. By the end of class many dogs have learned basic commands such as sit, down, come, stay, watch, leave it, settle and loose leash walking. This class also covers common problem areas such as potty training, chewing biting and digging. Consistent training at home will reinforce the skills they have learned in class. Please do not bring your dog with you the first week.
$125 for 6 weeks/ 1 hr per week
Adult Obedience- Basic 2
For Basic Obedience Graduates:
The emphasis in this class is on reliability, working with distractions and continuance of skills learned in Basic Obedience I. We will also practice more advanced skills such as heeling with turn/pace changes, long down stay, long sit stay, sitting politely for petting and many more. This class will also cover remote commands and off-leash work.
$125 for 6 weeks/ 1 hr per week
Board & Train
While your pet boards, they will receive a one-on-one session each day, personalized to meet the needs of you and your pet. Our program provides your dog with a setting in which he or she can focus on learning necessary obedience skills. This training is often highly effective when a problem arises in the canine/human relationship. This price includes one exit lesson. Consultations are by appointment only.
1week- $407 or 2weeks- $814
Day Camp & Train
A free evaluation (including the dog) must be scheduled in advance of sessions starting, and a private lesson for owner is included in every 4 sessions. Sessions include deluxe suite, full day of Day Camp and 45 minutes of practice/training per scheduled visit. The training will include your choice of obedience commands and control of common household issues, such as lunging on leash, jumping and handling desensitization.
Puppy Pre-K
During the small weekly group sessions, you will learn about socialization, confidence building, basic problem solving (potty training, chewing, biting, digging, barking & different techniques for specific temperaments and personalities), continued education and other owner educational topics. As a new puppy owner learn how to raise a better pet. Whether or not you are training, you are still directing behavior and creating patterns in your dog’s life. This period in your dog’s life is critical; they begin to form opinions and attitudes that will last their whole life.
$6 per session or $30 for 6 sessions
Temperament Testing
By learning a dog’s personality, training becomes easier. Testing allows you to learn your dog’s strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes. Understanding your pet will facilitate a smooth transition into your home.
Private Lessons
Our attention is devoted solely to you and your pet in these exclusive sessions that are tailored around your specific needs
Problem Solving & Behavior Modification
These are private sessions meant to assist pet owners in addressing a myriad of issues including barking, housetraining, leash walking, and other behaviors hindering an owner from fully enjoying time with their pet. We can also assist owners in dealing with dog aggressive dogs or other behavioral issues that need the help of an experience trainer. This time is meant to be one on one time with the owner to ensure that you and your pets needs are met to the fullest degree.
See a class you’re interested in? Give us a call for the class schedules.
“Once again, I am pleased with Riley’s stay at Best Friends! He is the happiest and very content dog when I picked him up…from his mannerisms, I can tell Riley was well loved and cares for. ” Miller