Frisco, TX
What a Great Dog! Training Center
History
In 2007, Maureen Patin founded What a Good Dog! Training in a horse barn in Prosper. With the support of her husband, Harold, she left a long career as an executive with PepsiCo to follow her dream. Already a life-long dog enthusiast, she had experience in competitive obedience, and teaching basic obedience classes for a local parks and rec department. Maureen’s vision was to build a dog training facility that would ignite a passion for training in pet owners.
Training Philosophy
Our expert trainers use a positive, reward-based methodology to teach dogs everything from basic manners and social skills, to advanced competition-level agility techniques, nose skills and more. All of our programs focus on growing the bond between pet and owner for a happier, lifelong relationship.
Services
Our state-of-the-art dog training centers in Frisco and Richardson, TX, are designed to help dogs (and their owners) learn, engage and thrive together.
In-Facility Programs
- Pet Manners
- Dog Agility
- Barn Hunt / Nose Work
- Rally / Obedience
- Specialty Classes
- Private / Ring Rentals
Online Programs
- Online Nose Work 101
- Online Nose Work 102
- Online Tricks Novice Self-Study
- Online Puppy Seminar
- Online Tricks Intermediate Self-Study
- Online Tricks Advanced - Self-Study
- Online Enrichment Seminar
- Online Kids and Dogs Seminar
Puppy Programs
- Puppy Seminar
- Puppy Preschool
- Manners 1
- Great Puppy Day School
Private Lessons
- Private Lessons (In-Facility)
- Online Private Lessons
Other Programs
- Conformation Handling
- Trick Dog Classes
- Flyball (Ongoing)
- Therapy Dog Prep
Certifications
Rhea Northcut CPDT-KA, ABCDT CSAT
Specializations
Nose Work, Pet Manners, Separation Anxiety
Training Methods
Positive, reward-based training
Customer Reviews
“Really nice folks great facility lots of wonderful information and they have the greatest little toy shop food stop for your dog or for your pets to really great place to take anybody who needs a few lessons.”
“Amazing staff and extremely knowledgeable trainers. The retail shop has a wonderful selection and the staff is knowledgeable about the different food, treats, and toys!”
“My dog and I just finished Manners 1. Such an amazing facility. Meaghan was a wonderful trainer and was able to explain things in a way that helped you relate to your dog's behavior. I really appreciate the time she would take to answer questions and help the dogs be as best as they can be. We can't wait to sign up for Manners 2 with her!”
“I don't have enough great things to say! We have been bringing our lab here since she was a puppy and we love it! She definitely wouldn't be the well-trained dog she is today without his awesome facility!”
“We enrolled our 14 week old Great Dane in Manners 1 and had a great experience. Our trainer, Rhea, was knowledgeable, very helpful with extra tips and tricks, and loves all dogs. In addition to our great trainer, the facility is spacious and clean. We also picked up some healthy treats and toys in their retail store where the employees were very helpful and friendly. We are looking forward to Manners 2!”
“We have thoroughly enjoyed this class. The lessons are broken down into very understandable and easy to grasp segments. High drive for scent was definitely built in this foundational class. The instructor provided timely and excellent feedback. I am enrolling in Nose Work 102 today.”
“I've taken manners classes at WAGD and have really enjoyed the instruction. I'm not always as timely with the homework and repetition practice (or my dog just needs more time to grasp a concept) than an in class program may allow as they move from topic to topic. I really loved that I could take this at my own pace and ensure we had the lesson committed before moving on. I felt very supported through the Facebook group and was able to send in videos, ask questions, and get guidance on how to best support my dog. Overall, Walker is a huge fan of nose work. It's so much fun to see him get excited to sniff, or do a double take when he finds the odor! He's a high-needs/anxious personality, and nose work has made a huge difference on his emotional state. He loves a job! Can't wait to begin Nose Work 2.”
We've got the answers for your questions
Seriously, if you have any questions about training your dog, we have the answers.
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.
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.
All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
