Business Details
We have operated PawsNHeel Dog Training Center in East Hampton, Connecticut for more than three decades. We are led by veteran trainer and owner Michelle Larson, who has spent her entire career working with dogs. We bring over 30 years of handson experience training, handling, and teaching dogs of all ages and breeds. We hold a B.S. in Education from Central Connecticut State University, reinforcing our instructional expertise. We are endorsed members of the National Dog Obedience Association, affirming our professional standards. We serve as certified obedience judges, applying rigorous evaluation criteria to our own classes.
We specialize in obedience, rallyO, scent work, tracking, drafting, nose work, and agility training. We design smallgroup and private sessions that give each dog focused attention and corrective guidance. We emphasize building a clear communication bond so owners can manage behavior without constant verbal cues. We continuously update our curriculum with the latest evidencebased training methods to ensure effective results. We are committed to transparent communication, measurable progress, and lasting satisfaction for every client.
We specialize in obedience, rallyO, scent work, tracking, drafting, nose work, and agility training. We design smallgroup and private sessions that give each dog focused attention and corrective guidance. We emphasize building a clear communication bond so owners can manage behavior without constant verbal cues. We continuously update our curriculum with the latest evidencebased training methods to ensure effective results. We are committed to transparent communication, measurable progress, and lasting satisfaction for every client.
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of dog training experience.
- Our instructor holds a B.S. in Education from CCSU.
- We are endorsed members of the National Dog Obedience Association.
- Our trainer serves as an official obedience competition judge.
- We offer certified rallyO, scent work, and agility programs.
Services
Puppy Kindergarten
Our Puppy Kindergarten introduces 8 to 16weekold puppies to basic obedience fundamentals in a supportive group setting. Designed for new dog owners, the class teaches leash walking, sit, stay, and proper socialization with peers. Graduates develop confidence, reduce common behavior issues, and build a strong foundation for future training.
Basic Manners
Our Basic Manners class focuses on essential commands such as sit, stay, come, and looseleash walking for adult dogs. Targeted at owners seeking reliable everyday behavior, the curriculum reinforces consistency and polite interaction with people and pets. Participants leave with a wellbehaved companion who responds reliably, enhancing safety and enjoyment during walks and home life.
Scent work
Our Scent Work program trains dogs to locate specific odors using their natural sniffing abilities. Ideal for owners wanting mental stimulation, the class builds focus, confidence, and problemsolving skills. Graduates can compete in nosework trials or simply enjoy enriched daily activities with their dogs.
Rally-O
RallyO classes combine obedience commands with a fun, obstaclebased course to reinforce teamwork. Designed for motivated owners and dogs, the program enhances communication, accuracy, and enthusiasm during training. Participants experience measurable progress, often qualifying for local rallyO competitions and achieving higher obedience standards.
Agility
Our Agility classes teach dogs to navigate jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and contact equipment safely. Suitable for active owners, the sport improves canine fitness, coordination, and confidence. Graduates often compete in regional agility trials, showcasing speed, precision, and the strong bond cultivated through training.
