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Certified dog trainer
Dawn Motley
Dawn Motley

Manhattan, KS

MuttSchool is a dog training and behavior organization founded by Mary. Mary has over 35 years of experience in dog training and has taught private lessons and group classes in obedience, Rally-O, conformation, trick training, flyball and agility in Phoenix, AZ, Seattle, WA and now with MuttSchool.

MuttSchool believes in empowering dogs to make appropriate choices instead of teaching them to strictly follow commands. Their innovative training approach goes beyond teaching the basic “sit, down, stay, come and heel” (although they do that, too.) Their methods set them apart because they utilize an effective and personalized approach, rooted in behavioral science, to teach dogs FUNdamental life concepts such as:

  • problem solving
  • calmness
  • focus
  • disengagement
  • confidence
  • proximity
  • and more.

MuttSchool teaches you and your dog a variety of fun and engaging exercises that you can incorporate into your daily routine. These exercises, take only a few minutes a day, and can have a transformative impact on your relationship with your dog.

MuttSchool offers a wide range of services, including:

  • Evaluations: A 90-minute session where a professional trainer assesses your dog's current training level and behavior, providing personalized attention and expert guidance.
  • Puppy Group Classes: Age-appropriate classes for puppies aged 8-15 weeks (Puppy Preschool) and 15 weeks to 6 months (Juvenile Jumpstart) to help them develop good habits and prevent unwanted behaviors.
  • Group Classes: 6-week open enrollment classes for dogs of all ages, covering a wide range of essential skills and behaviors, from basic obedience to more advanced tricks.
  • Private Lessons: Personalized training sessions tailored to your dog's unique needs and learning style, available at your home or at MuttSchool's training center.
  • DaySchool: A structured training and care program that provides your dog with personalized training sessions, exercise, and mental enrichment.
  • Boarding School: In-depth, multi-week training programs that follow MuttSchool's comprehensive grade-level curriculum, available for 2, 4, or 6 weeks.
  • Short-Term Boarding School: Boarding and training services for dogs that span less than two weeks.
  • Discovery Dogs: A program that allows you and your dog to try out a new dog sport, such as agility, flyball, barn hunt, tricks, disc dog, treibball, scent work, and rally obedience.
  • Behavior Modification Program: A program designed to help dogs with behavioral issues, such as aggression, anxiety, and fear.
  • Events and Workshops: A diverse array of events, workshops, and specialty classes offered on a monthly basis, designed to foster a better relationship with your dog.

MuttSchool trainers hold various certifications, including:

  • CPDT (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers)
  • KPA CTP (Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner)
  • AKC CGC Evaluator (Canine Good Citizen)
  • Service Dog Coach (SDC)
  • Certified Trick Dog Instructor
  • Fear Free Certified Professional–Trainer (FFCP)
  • Animal Behavior College (ABC) Mentor Training Facility

MuttSchool specializes in:

  • Puppy training
  • Obedience training
  • Behavior modification
  • Therapy dog training
  • Service dog training
  • Agility training
  • Flyball
  • Barn hunt
  • Tricks
  • Disc dog
  • Treibball
  • Scent work
  • Rally obedience

MuttSchool uses positive, behavioral science-based methods, rooted in the LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) philosophy. They believe in cultivating a positive and enduring bond between you and your dog, and they never use training equipment that causes pain, fear, or intimidation.

We've got the answers for your questions

Who are the dog trainers listed on this page?

We have created a directory of licensed dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement methods. These trainers are not affiliated with Dogo, and all information is gathered from publicly available sources. Each profile provides a brief overview of the trainer's experience and expertise.

How can I select the right trainer for my dog?

Start by evaluating your dog's needs and identifying your training objectives. Each trainer's profile provides insights into their areas of expertise. Match these with your dog's character and your goals to find the ideal fit.

How do I ensure these trainers are competent?

All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.

Why is positive reinforcement emphasized, and what is it?

Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding preferred behaviors, ensuring a pleasant learning journey for your dog. This humane approach is scientifically proven to be the most effective long-term training method, strengthening the bond between you and your pet. By consistently rewarding good behavior, your dog learns to associate actions with positive outcomes, leading to lasting improvements and a happier companion.

Are these trainers equipped to address specific behavioral problems?

Yes, they are. Our trainers are adept in basic obedience or intricate behavioral challenges. Browse their profiles to identify a trainer who specializes in the particular issues you wish to address.

How do I initiate a training program with a trainer?

Simply click on the preferred trainer's profile to access their contact details. From there, you can get in touch to discuss your requirements and set up training appointments.

How do group sessions differ from private ones?

Group sessions offer a communal setting where your dog learns general obedience alongside other dogs. In contrast, private sessions grant focused attention, making them perfect for targeted behavior modifications or individualized training agendas.

Which training techniques do these trainers abstain from?

All our trainers are committed to positive reinforcement techniques and steer clear of any harsh or punitive methods. Their primary goal is to make training a joyous journey for you and your dog.

When can I expect to see results using positive reinforcement training?

Results depend on factors like your dog's nature, the specific behaviors in question, and your training consistency. While many clients observe improvements in just a few sessions, it's crucial to be patient and persistent.

Can I attend a training session to observe before committing?

Reach out to the trainer you're interested in to discuss possibly attending a session. It's a great way to get a feel for their approach and see if it aligns with your expectations.

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