Training Methods

Spirit Ranch Dog Training courses range from Basic Obedience, to Service and Therapy Dog training. All training methods are based on a strong foundation of Positive Reinforcement techniques. Our Behaviorists can customize classes to correct unwanted behaviors such as aggression, fearfulness, excessive barking, and others. We work hard to stay current on the latest and most effective ways to achieve results with your dog. We incorporate an understanding of wolf pack mentality and breed-specific characteristics and behaviors that affect your dog's learning in order to educate you and train your dog.

In Home Training

If you have a busy lifestyle, our group classes do not fit into your schedule, or your dog is having extreme behavioral issues, private lessons may be the best option for you. The days and times available for private lessons are flexible in order to fit your needs and are based on a schedule agreed upon by you and your trainer.

Dog Running

Our Professional Dog Runners are trained to assess what level of exercise is appropriate for your dog's age, breed, and individual needs. For some dogs, running is vital for overall mental and physical wellbeing. Running is a great way to release energy in a positive way, easing issues your dog may have with anxiety or overexcitement. The proper amount of exercise paired with our Positive Reinforcement Obedience program is a guaranteed recipe for a happy family, four-legged members included.

Doggy Day Out

Doggy Day Out is a daycare-style environment supervised by Professional Trainers and Daycare Attendants who have been trained to correct inappropriate play and encourage positive interaction. We keep playgroups small and make sure every dog is comfortable and happy. Doggy Day Out is offered Monday through Friday. Call to set up a Temperament Assessment.

Dog Sitting

As dog owners ourselves, we have felt and witnessed repeatedly the trauma that can come from a bad boarding experience. Even the most socialized dog can become overwhelmed and stressed in a high volume boarding facility. We offer In-Home Dog Sitting (which is really more like housesitting), as well as Home Away From Home Dog Sitting where socialized dogs have the option to stay at the home of one of our Dog Sitters. By talking to you we will be able to assess which option is best for you and your dog.

Public Access Curriculum (PAC)

This class if for Service Dogs in Training who have passed all Basic Obedience levels and received their Canine Good Citizen. This class is geared towards real world public outings where normal dogs are not allowed to go. The class location changes weekly and is up to the trainer based on the needs of that week’s students. This class does not have to be consecutive. It is a rolling course, meaning students can purchase classes in advance and attend when their schedule allots.

Therapy Access and Presentation (TAP)

For therapy dogs who have achieved their Canine Good Citizen certification and are looking to break out into the therapy dog world. This class focuses on real world locations where therapy dogs are not only welcome, but also needed. Students in this class get the opportunity to do real work with the public. Locations depend on trainer preference, the needs of the students in the class, and what locations need or request a therapy dog visit. This is a rolling course, meaning students can purchase classes in advance and attend when their schedule allots.

Day School

This training package is available for any dog or puppy who has passed the daycare assessment and is not showing any aggression issues with people or other dogs. Our day school package includes 10 full days of daycare at our shop and an hour of their day is spent working with the trainer. The location and curriculum for this training package can vary, depending on the owner’s goals and what the trainer determines is needed for the dog to succeed.

Dog Squad

This training package is geared towards socialization, public access outings, and remedial training over concepts your dog has already learned. This is a great option for busy pet parents whose dog needs upkeep with training, or cannot dedicate large amounts of time to socialization. Sessions are 4 hours at a time and the trainer will take dogs 2-5 different places per session depending on what the dog and owner’s needs are.