Dog Training Services

Built around you and your dog.

A brown dog with yellow eyes sitting on a wooden porch amidst torn paper and packaging.

Choose the training you need

  • If your dog lunges, barks, or “goes crazy” when seeing other dogs on leash, you’re not alone. Reactivity is often rooted in excitement or fear, not aggression.

    Best for: leash reactivity, barking/lunging, overexcitement, frustration on walks

    What we’ll do: identify triggers, teach you how to anticipate reactions, and coach calm alternative responses to recondition the pattern

    You’ll leave with: a clear plan, practice steps, and reinforced foundation cues for real-life situations

    Next step: Start with an Evaluation

  • Customized coaching for you and your dog, ideal if your dog isn’t ready for a group setting or you want help with a specific behavior.

    Best for: basic manners, leash skills, focus around distractions, problem behaviors you want addressed privately

    What we’ll do: start with a brief history and your goals, then build a plan you can practice at home

    You’ll get: homework + handouts after each session to reinforce progress between visits

    Typical follow-up: the second session is usually scheduled about 2 weeks later to review progress and build the next steps

    Pricing

    • Private Instruction (2 sessions): starting at $200 (may vary by location)

    • Leash Walking Package (3 sessions): $250

      • Session 1: leash skills assessment + equipment review + homework

      • Session 2: neighborhood walk + progress check

      • Session 3: public walk with real-world distractions

    • Puppy Package (3 × 45 min sessions): $250

      • Session 1 (in home): leadership, nipping/biting, leash intro, house training, sit

      • Session 2 (outside): recall, leash walk, sit game, leave it

      • Session 3 (outdoors): exploration walk, environmental socialization, stay + review

    Payment policy
    Payment is due in full at the first session. No refunds.

    Next step: Start with an Evaluation (recommended if you’re unsure which option fits)

  • Not sure what your dog needs or what training path makes the most sense? A Pet Evaluation helps us understand your dog, your goals, and the best next step forward.

    Best for: new clients, behavior concerns, training “stuck points,” or deciding which service fits

    What we’ll do: discuss your dog’s history, evaluate your lifestyle and needs, and identify priorities

    You’ll leave with: a clear recommendation (training focus + next steps) you can start right away

    Next step: Start with an Evaluation

    AKC Certification (CGC & more)
    Good Dogma is AKC-certified to provide Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Community Dog, Tricks, and Urban Dog evaluations. These certifications help build a well-mannered dog and can be a first step toward therapy/service work.
    For CGC details, visit AKC.org.

Four dogs of different breeds on leashes meeting on a gravel surface, with a person standing behind them. The dogs are sniffing and interacting with each other.

Private sessions • Real-life coaching • Positive reinforcement

Three puppies of different breeds playing on a dirt surface. One is a golden retriever puppy lying on its side, a white bulldog puppy wearing a black and white checkered harness, and a large brown dog, possibly a Labrador retriever, standing and interacting with the other two.

Pay via Venmo

Send payments quickly and securely. Please include your name and your dog's name in the "What's it for?" note so we can easily track your payment.

Make a payment

Pay by Check

Prefer to mail a physical check? Please make it payable to Good Dogma Obedience Training and mail it to:
Lisa Ellman
519 W Taylor #377
Santa Maria, CA, 93458

Not sure which training service is right for you and your dog?

Start with a quick evaluation and we’ll recommend the best next step!