Business Details
19 Years
experience
Professional Dog Training Services in Newtown, CT
The Exceptional Pet Dog Training, LLC has been dedicated to transforming canine behavior and strengthening human-dog relationships since 2007. Our team of Certified Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA) specializes in science-based, positive reinforcement methods that prioritize long-term behavioral success. With a state-of-the-art 3,000 sq ft facility in Newtown, CT, we offer comprehensive training programs including private consultations, group classes, and specialized behavioral support for reactive or fearful dogs. Our expertise extends to service dog training through The Exceptional Sidekick nonprofit, and we maintain active partnerships with local charities and animal welfare organizations. We emphasize continuing education for both pets and owners, with trainers regularly attending advanced seminars and workshops.Our facility features temperature-controlled training spaces, obstacle courses, and socialization areas designed to create optimal learning environments. We maintain strict health and safety protocols aligned with veterinary guidelines for puppy socialization and adult dog training. Our team's credentials include AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluations, National Association of Canine Scent Work membership, and specialized certifications in therapy dog training. We measure success through documented behavioral improvements and lifelong client support, as evidenced by numerous success stories from families across Northern Fairfield County.
Services
Private Dog Training
Group Obedience Classes
Day Training Programs
Board and Train
Service Dog Training
Puppy Socialization
Behavioral Consultations
Therapy Dog Certification
Agility Training
Reactive Dog Support
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- Our trainers hold CPDT-KA certification through rigorous industry standards
- We use only science-based positive reinforcement training methods
- We maintain Connecticut's only dedicated dog training facility
- Our team includes AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluators and scent work specialists
- We offer specialized programs for reactive and fearful dogs with proven success
Associations and certifications
- Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
What people say
Lifelong behavioral changes
Expertise with reactive dogs
Structured class progression
Personalized follow-up support
Positive reinforcement methods
Services
Private Dog Training
Customized training sessions conducted in your home or our facility address specific behavioral issues. Our CPDT-certified trainers develop personalized plans for problems like reactivity, anxiety, and leash pulling. Programs include follow-up lessons to ensure lasting behavioral changes through positive reinforcement techniques.
Group Obedience Classes
Structured classes at our 3,000 sq ft facility teach obedience skills in social environments. Offerings include puppy kindergarten through advanced rally classes with progression toward AKC certification. Sessions focus on real-world application of commands and socialization with other dogs.
Board and Train
Residential training program at Wags Doggie Daycamp develops basic commands and leash skills through daily sessions. Includes three follow-up lessons for technique transfer to owners. Uses positive reinforcement without aversive tools in a stress-free environment for non-reactive dogs.
Reactive Dog Support
Specialized program using Leslie McDevitt's Control Unleashed methodology for reactive dogs. Includes private evaluations and structured group sessions to build confidence and reduce stress responses. Focuses on counter-conditioning rather than behavior suppression through fear-based methods.
Puppy Socialization
Early development program with age-appropriate vaccinations teaches basic manners and social skills. Includes obstacle courses for body awareness and enrichment exercises for cognitive development. Prepares puppies for group classes through crate training and loose leash walking practice.
People
Abby Hill
Owner & Director
Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) since 2007, AKC evaluator, and founder of The Exceptional Sidekick Service Dogs. National speaker and seminar leader with expertise in canine behavior and scent work.
Donna McNerney
Service Dog Trainer
CPDT-KA certified trainer specializing in reactive dog rehabilitation and service dog training. Former daycare supervisor with extensive experience in canine behavior modification and rescue dog integration.
Sandy Lee
Obedience Instructor
CPDT-KA certified trainer with expertise in positive reinforcement methods. AKC Fit Dog instructor and temperament evaluator with specialization in obedience training and human-canine bonding techniques.
Kristen Alesevich
Behavior Specialist
CPDT-KA certified trainer with background in service dog development and puppy socialization programs. Former Guiding Eyes for the Blind coordinator with focus on canine development from 6 weeks to 18 months.
Questions
Why choose certified dog trainers?
Certified trainers use scientifically proven methods that avoid fear-based techniques, ensuring long-term behavioral improvements without causing psychological harm to dogs.
What are your vaccination requirements?
Puppies need two distemper/parvo vaccines; adult dogs require current rabies and distemper/parvo vaccinations or recent titer tests for class participation.
Do you handle aggressive dogs?
We require private evaluations for reactive dogs and offer specialized classes using counter-conditioning techniques instead of traditional aggression management approaches.
What training methods do you use?
We exclusively use positive reinforcement techniques that focus on rewarding desired behaviors rather than suppressing unwanted ones through fear or force.
Can children attend classes?
We encourage family participation but require children to remain calm and supervised during training sessions to maintain a focused learning environment.
Do you offer advanced training programs?
Yes, we provide progressive training from basic obedience through advanced rally skills and specialized programs for therapy dog certification.
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