by Claire Anderson, CSAP-BC, CPDT-KA, FDM
Listen, the training world is vast and it can be confusing to know what type of training is best for you! When you google “dog training” you are inundated with ads, articles, and a variety of local (and not-so-local) training options. To make it even more difficult, many of these options contradict each other with competing buzzwords that all sound great—but are they?
At Tully’s Training, we offer many training program options including:
group training classes
customized private training programs
clubs (Puppy, Spicy Dogs, and Adventure)
behavior consultations
All of our training options are created thoughtfully, always prioritizing the mental and emotional health and safety of all involved (human and canine!) Each one of these services can be an excellent choice, but which one is best for your unique dog and family?
Group Training Classes
Group training classes are offered at select Healthy Spot locations in the Los Angeles area. In our classes, the atmosphere is one of encouragement, patience, and gentle guidance. Led by a qualified and experienced trainer, the classes focus on reinforcing desired behaviors through praise, treats, toys, and other rewards. Each session is a blend of learning and fun, where owners and dogs engage in activities that promote trust, cooperation, and bonding. The trainer emphasizes the importance of clear communication and consistency, guiding owners in using positive reinforcement techniques to teach commands like sit, stay, and come, as well as addressing common behavioral challenges such as leash pulling or jumping. Through gentle guidance and positive feedback, both dogs and owners build confidence and trust in each other, fostering a strong foundation for a lifelong partnership based on mutual understanding and joyous companionship.
Group training classes are a great option for dogs without fearful or aggressive behavior, who’d benefit from working on basic manners and behaviors in a distracting environment. They are also fantastic for puppies because of the strong emphasis on positive socialization as well as learning the basics.
Private Training Programs
We offer a wide range of private training options, all customized to your unique situation, offered virtually, in-home, or a combination of virtual and in-home. We begin the process with a free 30 minute virtual consultation, done over Zoom, Google Meet, or Facetime during which we discuss your goals in detail, along with your dog’s environment, health, exercise, etc. We will recommend a program based on what we learn while we talk and watch you interact with your dog. We have a variety of program options!
The prices of these programs vary depending on program length and what style of program suits you best (virtual, in-home, or hybrid.) We do have payment plans available.
Example Program
Tilly is a 1.5 year old spayed female golden retriever who lives with a family of five (two adults, three kids ranging from 8-14) in a house with a fenced in yard. Her family’s behavior goals for her are:
calm greeting routine
no jumping on people
stop counter surfing
no digging in the yard
loose leash walking
how to settle
coming when called
stealing toys and destroying them
passing other dogs calmly without pulling towards them
In most situations, private training is the very best option for completely addressing your goals, which involve your unique dog, family, and environment. Why? Every dog, person, and environment are different. There is no one-size-fits-all training that will be as effective as having a behavior professional work with you to achieve your goals.
Clubs
We offer three clubs designed to help dogs of every age and temperament thrive.
Spicy Dogs Club is a small-group class built for reactive dogs, giving them a calm, supportive space to build confidence, learn focus, and practice better responses to triggers with expert guidance and plenty of room to succeed.
Puppy Social Club is the perfect start for young dogs, combining supervised off-leash play with foundational training so puppies learn good manners, healthy social skills, and how to enjoy the world around them.
Adventure Club offers group hikes where pups can burn off energy, practice their skills in new environments, and bond with their humans and fellow canine adventurers along the way. Whether your dog needs a little extra support, a strong start, or a fun outing, there’s a club to help them become their best self.
In-home Behavior Consultation
Our behavior consultations involve a comprehensive assessment of your dog's behavior, learning style, needs, environment, schedule, health, their social interactions, and the humans in their life.
During a canine behavior consultation, we will observe your dog in various contexts, talk to you and your family to gather information about your dog's history and daily routine, and assess their living environment and schedule. The goal is to identify the root causes of maladaptive behaviors such as aggression, fear, anxiety, excessive barking, or destructive tendencies.
Once the assessment is complete, we develop a tailored plan. This plan may include veterinary referrals, positive reinforcement training techniques, enrichment, environmental modifications, and management strategies to address the specific issues identified. We will provide education on understanding canine body language, communication cues, and how to implement the recommended interventions effectively.
Throughout the consultation process, emphasis is placed on creating a positive and supportive relationship between you and your dog. Follow-up sessions may be recommended to monitor progress, make adjustments to the plan, and provide ongoing guidance and support. We will also discuss realistic expectations for the dog’s unique journey.
Our behavior consultations aim to enhance the overall well-being of your dog and strengthen your relationship. They are valuable for addressing behavioral challenges, promoting a harmonious living environment, and ensuring that you and your dog enjoy a safe, fulfilling, and positive relationship.
After the consultation, you will receive a follow up review email with recommended homework, reading, a summarized plan, and additional helpful resources. Depending on your unique situation, more sessions may be recommended.
Still unsure about what training option is right for you? Start with our free 30 minute virtual consultation to discuss your goals with one of our amazing trainers. We can help point you in the right direction!