Service Dog Training

The First Friend Formula:

Convenience* Results* Peace of Mind

Convenience: My clients are busy people, so my dog training services are all about convenience. Group training classes are easy to get to and are held on evenings and weekends. Need something even easier? I'll come to your home for private training. If you're really busy, I'll even train your dog for you while you're at work or running errands.

Results: When you're busy, every bit of time counts. To make the most of your time, I keep training classes small, with individual training plans for each dog so you can focus on the results you need. Or, allow me to train your dog for you via my private training service. An experienced professional at the other end of the leash means the sharpest and quickest training results possible.

Peace of Mind: All of my training is based soundly in current behavioral science, and I use only positive-based dog training techniques. I want you to enjoy your training results guilt-free.

With my nearly 30 years of experience in animal training and husbandry, including 22 years as a guide-dog instructor, you'll know you and your dog are in good hands.I approach dog training for my busy clients and students with nearly 30 years of animal training and husbandry experience to offer. I spent 22 years with Guiding Eyes for the Blind in various capacities, including Assistant Director of Puppy Evaluations, Guide Dog Instructor, and Class Supervisor. I hold an associate's degree in animal science from S.U.N.Y. Cobleskill, where I concentrated in horse husbandry, and a bachelor's degree from Cornell in animal science. I am a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner, considered one of the most prestigious designations for professional dog trainers. I am also a licensed Family Paws Parent Educator and am available to support new and expecting families who have dogs in the home through the Dogs and Storks program and then through the very important Dogs and Toddlers program. Jean has spent many years supporting rescue organizations, from fostering dogs to training fellow volunteers to providing behavioral consultations. As a training junkie, I spend my free time training and hiking with my own three dogs, Shadow, Ivy, and youngster Bryson. Shadow is a retired guide dog that enjoys agility and Nose Work. He and Ivy both hold their Nose Work 2 titles. Youngster Bryson is determined to catch up to his siblings.

Services Offered Summary: Transforming your dog into a well-behaved family companion is my specialty. I find that many dog owners lack the time and expertise necessary to accomplish training goals on their own, so I joyfully and skillfully do it for them. Using reward-based, scientific methods, I train your dog in your home, while you go about your schedule. If you want to do the training yourself I will happily coach you one on one. I also offer small-sized group classes.