Obedience Training
What we offer:
One on One Pet Training
After years of running a training facility that taught nearly 20 group classes per week, Scott noticed many dog/handler teams not succeeding in this environment. As such, Scott sought to create an environment that caters to each individual human and dog, and meets their unique needs.
At Hop River Shepherds, we pride ourselves on training people and their dogs. We strive to set people up with the tools they need to have long-term success with their dog/s.
*Hop River Shepherds does not offer “puppy play groups”; we do not believe that this type of socialization is productive for puppies. Instead, we recommend one-on-one private training for puppies*
We offer this training at our facility, and not at private homes.
Behavior Modification
At Hop River Shepherds, we see many referrals from veterinary offices and behaviorists for dogs that struggle with reactivity and/or aggression.
We use balanced training methods to meet each individual dog where they are, and cater our training plan to their needs.
We offer this training at our facility, and not at private homes.
Our Facility
Hop River Shepherds is situated on 205 acres in Andover, CT off of Route 6.
Our property features an agility field, a dock diving pool, outdoor kennel areas, wooded trails, heated and cooled sleeping areas, and a regulation French Ring field.
Board and Train
Our board and train programs are 3-4 weeks in length, depending on each dog’s needs. We do not give a set date for each dog to go home until we have assessed and spent time with the dog. Included in each board and train program are three follow-up lessons to help teach you (the human) how to continue helping your dog succeed.
Each training program is based on our clients, their dogs, and their combined needs. Our board and train programs emphasize structure and routine, and seek to set each dog up for success by giving them clarity, guidance, and leadership.
Dogs stay at our facility in safe and spacious kennels or crates, and get exposure to environments like public settings, socialization with other appropriate dogs, etc.
Group Obedience Classes
We offer group obedience classes once per week on Saturday mornings, available only to current or past advanced obedience clients. This class is tailored to the handlers and dogs that have worked with us in the past, who want to maintain their obedience.
This group class meets either at our training field in Andover, or once monthly in public to work in high-distraction settings.
