Training
We have a whole host of training courses that help both dogs and owners become a good sidekick with positive reinforcement - find out which one would be best for your dog! Click here to enroll now!
If you’re interested in building fun teamwork with your dog, you’ll need to:
Enroll in a Level 1 class, either Positively Star Puppies or Attentive Adults.
Then enroll in the Level 2 class, Mindful Manners. At the end of this class, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a mock Canine Good Citizen test to assess your readiness. Alternatively, you can start the fun sport of scent work while working on obedience on the side.
Then the sky is the limit! Work toward becoming a Therapy Dog Team, or socialize in public with our Side Kicks on the Move.
Do you have specific needs with your dog and would like private or semi-private help?
If your dog is reactive and not suited for classes with a lot of dogs, enroll in semi-private Reactive Dog Class Level 1.
If you need private training, call Misti Fry to get one-on-one help, no matter the issue, for your VIP (Very Important Puppy) at 417-827-3942.
Level 1 Classes
These are our beginner training courses to help you get started with your dog. These basic classes are required before moving on to more advanced training.
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Lessons include:
Basic cues such as sit, down, and stay
Getting and keeping your dog's attention
Coming when called
Self control
Walking politely on a leash
Greetings and socialization
And a few fun tricks
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Lessons include:
Basic cues such as sit, down, and stay
Getting and keeping your dog's attention
Coming when called
Self control
Walking politely on a leash
Greetings and socialization
And a few fun tricks
$165
Level 2 Classes - Continuing Basics
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Prerequisite: Completion of a Level 1 course (either Positively Star Puppies or Attentive Adults)
Lessons include:
Waiting calmly at the doorways
Settling in public
Refining loose leash walking
Solidifying stays.
Reactive Dog Training
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Reactive dogs are dogs that overreact to certain things, like other dogs or people, by barking, lunging, or growling. This is usually because they feel scared, frustrated, or stressed, and sometimes people think they are aggressive.
We will show you how to:Manage your dog's environment.
Reduce their stress and work to change your dog's behavior.
Change their emotional response to their trigger or triggers.
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Please fill out our contact form and select “Private Training” in the Subject Dropdown.
Therapy Dog Training
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This class is for owners and dogs interested in therapy work. It prepares you to pass the AKC CGC, CGCU, and CGCC tests.
Taught by an AKC-certified CGC and ATT evaluator, it focuses on the skills needed for therapy certification.
To get your dog certified as a Therapy Dog:Complete SKDT 101 Positively Puppies or SKDT 102 Attentive Adults Class (Based on age)
Complete SKDT 102 Mindful Manners
Complete Comforting Canines Therapy Dog Class
Test your dog and pass the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen test
Get certified with a therapy dog organization. Each therapy dog organization has their own qualifications - depending on who you choose to be certified with will determine your next step.A nearby therapy dog organization is Pet Therapy of the Ozarks. Our instructors can evaluate your dog to be certified with ATD if no other evaluator is within 60 miles of Springfield.
To get your dog certified as a Service Dog:
Complete SKDT 101 Positive Puppies or SKDT 102 Attentive Adults Class (Based on age)
Complete SKDT 102 Mindful Manners
Test your dog and pass the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen test
Start working on tasks by either enrolling in a Tricks class or enroll in private training.Complete Comforting Canines Therapy Dog Class
Test your dog and pass the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Community (CGCC) and the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Community (CGCU)
AKC Canine GOOD Citizen Test
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The AKC Canine Good Citizen Test will be given by a certified evaluator. This test is open to any team who is ready to be tested on all ten items of the CGC test.
Scent Work
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Welcome to scent work! This beginner class is perfect for all ages and breeds, helping your dog build confidence and strengthening your bond. You'll also learn to recognize your dog's cues. Dogs will start with Birch, the beginner scent for UKC and AKC. Whether you're exploring a new sport or just looking for fun, scent work is a great choice!
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Advanced Scent Work builds on Beginner Scent Work, introducing new odors, hide locations, and refining handling skills. This class is great for fun or preparing for competition as you watch your dog’s skills grow!