our Dog training services
At Naples Dog Academy, every training program is grounded in positive reinforcement, science-based learning, and the LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) approach. With over 25 years of professional experience, we help dogs and their families achieve real results through clear communication, reward-based methods, and training that always begins where your dog feels safest — at home.
In-Home Dog Training & Consultations
In-Home Puppy or Pet Consultations
Early guidance to set your dog up for success from the start. Covers routine, structure, communication, and foundational skills.
In-Home Behavioral Consultations
Personalized sessions to evaluate your dog’s behavior in their natural environment and recommend a clear, humane training plan.
Assistance Choosing a Puppy or Rescue Dog
Expert help selecting a breed or individual dog that fits your lifestyle, family, and activity level.
Puppy Foundations
- Potty training
- Crate training
- Proper socialization
- Confidence building
- Handling & grooming prep
- Early manners
- Preventing unwanted behaviors before they start
Behavior Modification
For dogs struggling with emotional or behavioral challenges. We use positive, humane methods to build confidence and safety.
Common Behavior Issues Addressed
- Reactive dogs (dogs reacting to people, dogs, or triggers)
- Barking
- Jumping
- Pulling on leash
- Counter surfing
- Mouthing / nipping
- Resource guarding (food, toys, locations, or people)
- Separation anxiety
- Fearful, anxious, or shutdown dogs
- Destructive behavior
- Obsessive compulsive tendencies
- Confidence building
- Impulse control
- Overexcitement
- Improper social behavior with other dogs or people
Family & Child Education
We teach children safe handling, proper introductions, and how to interact with dogs in a respectful manner.
Manners, Public Behavior & Lifestyle Training
Good Manners at Home & in Public Places
- Greeting people politely
- Calm behavior around distractions
- Settling in busy environments
- Polite household behavior
Leash Skills & Advanced Walking
- Loose leash walking
- Heel work
- Focus around distractions
- Outdoor & public space training
Reliable Recall (“Come When Called”)
Critical for safety and freedom — trained positively for reliability.
Focus Training
Teaching your dog to check in with you even in stimulating environments.
Training Philosophy & Methodology
Positive Reinforcement Only
We do not use force, fear, shock, prong collars, intimidation, or punishment. Behavior that is rewarded increases, and dogs learn faster.
Science-Based Learning Theories
All training follows proven, ethical behavior science rooted in classical and operant conditioning.
LIMA Approach
We always choose the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive strategies to keep your dog mentally and emotionally safe.
Effective Communication (“Talk Dog”)
Learn how to speak your dog’s language and understand body signals so you can communicate with clarity and confidence.
Enrichment, Confidence & Fun Training
Nose Work & Scent Games
Builds confidence, problem-solving, and mental stimulation.
Puzzle Work & Indoor Enrichment
Fun games and activities that keep dogs mentally engaged.
Tricks & Fun Play Training
Build a deeper bond and improve communication through enjoyable learning.
Wellness, Lifestyle & Support
Nutrition, Grooming & Exercise Guidance
A balanced lifestyle is essential for a well-behaved dog. We provide recommendations for:
- Proper diet
- Exercise needs
- Grooming routines
- Mental enrichment
Pet Sitting Support
Compassionate, attentive care focused on maintaining positive routines while you’re away.
AKC Titles, Evaluations & Advanced Programs
AKC STAR Puppy
Builds a strong foundation and promotes early socialization, manners, and confidence.
AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Evaluator
We prepare and evaluate dogs for the CGC test — a gold standard for public manners.
Obedience Training
Available at all levels:
- Basic (sit, down, stay, wait, leave it, manners)
- Intermediate (longer durations, distractions, distance work)
- Advanced (public manners, off-leash foundations)
- Off-Leash Obedience (recall, heeling, real-world reliability)
Specialized Dog Roles
- Emotional Support Animal (ESA)
- Psychiatric Service Animal (PSA) Training Support
- Diabetic Alert Dog (DAD) Basics
- Companion Dog Skills
(Note: We support training foundations and public manners; medical task training may require additional specialized trainers.)
Naples Dog Academy was unlike any vet experience I’ve ever had - in all the best ways! I was blown away by the rapid difference for our dog and the friendly and overall seamless experience.
Monica P.
