Business Details
33 Years
experience
Expert Dog Training in Northern New Jersey
Sit & Stay Dog Training has been a trusted provider of expert dog training services in Northern New Jersey since 1993. Founded by Joana Watsky, a certified professional dog trainer with over 30 years of experience, we specialize in positive reinforcement techniques to foster strong, lasting bonds between dogs and their owners. Our comprehensive programs include group classes in Hoboken and Nutley, private in-home training, and online sessions tailored to urban and suburban environments. We address diverse needs, from puppy socialization to advanced obedience and therapy dog certification, serving Bergen, Hudson, Essex, Passaic, Union, and Morris Counties.Our approach emphasizes clear communication, trust-building, and customized solutions, reflecting our deep understanding of canine behavior and local community dynamics. With a proven track record of resolving complex behavior issues, we remain committed to humane, effective training methods that empower both pets and their families.
Services
Puppy Training
Basic Obedience
Advanced Training
Therapy Dog Certification
In-Home Training
Online Dog Training
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of specialized dog training experience in Northern NJ
- Certified in positive reinforcement techniques for humane training
- Customized programs for urban and suburban dog ownership challenges
- Proven success with thousands of satisfied clients across NJ counties
- Expertise in resolving complex behavior issues with science-based methods
Associations and certifications
- AKC Canine Good Citizen
- Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs
What people say
Proven results
Patient instruction
Behavior transformation
Positive reinforcement
Expert guidance
Services
Puppy Training
Our Puppy Kindergarten program (2-4 months) focuses on socialization, housebreaking, and basic obedience. We teach bite inhibition, confidence building, and essential commands like sit, down, and recall. The six-week course prepares puppies for urban environments while educating owners on nurturing relationships through positive reinforcement techniques.
Basic Obedience
Six-week basic training covers leash walking, commands (sit, stay, come), and behavior problem-solving for dogs 3.5+ months. The curriculum includes focus exercises, loose-leash walking, and addressing chewing or barking issues using reward-based methods that strengthen owner-dog communication and cooperation.
Therapy Dog Training
Advanced six-week program prepares dogs for AKC Canine Good Citizen and therapy dog certification. Training includes off-leash control, distraction management, and handling by strangers. We use wheelchairs and walkers in sessions to simulate real-world scenarios, culminating in formal testing for qualified teams.
In-Home Training
Customized one-on-one sessions address specific behavior issues in your home environment. We tackle house soiling, resource guarding, separation anxiety, and leash pulling using positive reinforcement. Sessions include follow-up resources and unlimited consultations to ensure lasting behavioral changes for dogs of all ages.
Online Training
Remote training via video calls addresses obedience and behavior issues globally. Programs include puppy counseling, basic commands, and behavior modification. Sessions provide follow-up videos/articles and personalized training plans using positive reinforcement techniques adaptable to any household situation.
People
Joana Watsky
Owner & Lead Trainer
Joana Watsky has trained dogs professionally since 1993, apprenticing at ASPCA NYC and studying with PhD behaviorists. Certified evaluator for AKC and Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dogs, she specializes in positive reinforcement methods. Featured in multiple media outlets, she consults with veterinarians and has trained thousands of Northern NJ dogs.
Questions
What is positive dog training?
Positive dog training uses reward-based methods to reinforce good behaviors without punishment, building trust between dogs and owners.
How long has Sit and Stay been in business?
Joana Watsky has provided dog training services since 1993, with over 30 years of experience in Northern NJ.
Do you offer private training sessions?
Yes, we provide in-home training throughout Northern NJ to address specific behavioral needs in your dog's environment.
Are classes available for puppies?
Our Puppy Kindergarten classes cater to puppies aged 2-4 months, focusing on socialization and basic obedience.
Can training help with behavior problems?
Positive training effectively addresses issues like excessive barking, resource guarding, and separation anxiety through behavior modification.
