Green Acres Kennel Shop

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Listen to a podcast about our classes

Our Training Team: Knowledgeable and Certified

Green Acres boasts a training staff that includes four Certified Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA), who collectively possess over fifty five years of combined training experience. To be eligible for certification as a CPDT-KA, trainers must accumulate 300
hours of instructional experience, submit a written reference from a veterinarian, colleague, and training student, and pass a written exam. The exam content covers the science of training, canine behavior and health, and elements of successful human/canine instruction. We have been voted the region’s Best Dog Trainer by Market Surveys of America every year since 2011.

Green Acres’ training team is led by Don Hanson, BFRAP, CDBC, CPDT-KA. He is a past Chair/President of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), the world’s largest dog training and educational organization. All of Green Acres’ training staff are professional members of the APDT and as such are committed to continuing their own education within the field of dog training. Each of our introductory training classes has no more than five students and is typically co-taught by a lead and assistant trainer, thus ensuring you’ll receive ample individual support and assistance.

Real Life Training for Real Life Dogs

A happy, well-mannered dog does not occur overnight or without the investment of time and effort on the part of the family. The environment in which the dog lives, as well as every other person a dog interacts with influences what it learns and how it behaves. It is our mission at Green Acres to help you manage what your dog learns, helping you to teach behaviors that you like and prevent behaviors you don’t like. By doing so we hope to help you and your dog become best friends for life. We look forward to assisting you and your canine companion as you embark on this journey together.

Five central principles are at the core of our training program:

•           Understanding and Respect

•           Reward Based Training

•           Improving Communication

•           Critical Thinking Skills

•           Managing for Success

Understanding & Respect

At Green Acres, we strongly believe that the key to having a great relationship with your dog begins on the premise of understanding your dog and working with their natural talents and abilities rather than against them. Our classes will help to bridge this cultural divide by educating you about what is normal canine behavior, what is not normal behavior and why dogs behave the way they do. Through education and understanding you will be better able to meet your dog’s needs, train for success and manage some of the more challenging behaviors.

We do not adhere to the dominance construct or punishment in dog training as it has been proven to be severely flawed and is counter-productive to a positive relationship. We encourage you to read our Position Statement on the Use of Dominance and Punishment for the Training and Behavior Modification of Dogs on our website.

Reward Based Training Methods

To have a happy dog and develop a healthy relationship, it is imperative to interact in a positive manner when training your pet. Green Acres prides itself in using dog friendly methods to help our canine companions learn to reside peacefully in our homes and lives. Because our style is one of teaching with kindness and compassion, we encourage all family members, including children, to become involved in the training process.

Dogs, like all other creatures perform and repeat behaviors that are rewarding to them. We will use this to our advantage in classes by rewarding behaviors we like and ignoring and managing behaviors we do not like. Through the use of a clicker or verbal marker and rewards, dogs can be taught an infinite number of behaviors. Not only is clicker training scientifically proven, it is the most effective, humane training method and allows for a fun, relaxed atmosphere. We strive to help you to understand the process behind the training so that you will be able to teach your dog virtually anything you wish.

Improved Communication

Good communication is critical for teaching a person or an animal; however, the reality is dogs and humans speak two very different languages and our relationships are often fraught with misunderstanding which can negatively impact training. We’ll discuss how dogs communicate in an effort to help you to better understand what your dog may be feeling and how that is impacting their behavior. We’ll also discuss what you are trying to communicate to your dog, how you are expressing your message and how that may be affecting what your dog is learning.

Realistically, your dog already knows how to sit. The goal of training is not to teach your dog to sit, but rather to teach your dog to sit when you cue the behavior.

In training, timing is everything and the use of the clicker more clearly communicates to your dog the exact moment when they have performed the desired behavior. Reading our dogs’ body language and knowing what they are feeling will also help us in our effort to train them. Our emotions affect our ability to learn and by being able to recognize our dogs emotional states (anxiety, over excitement, etc.) we can more effectively plan our training.

Critical Thinking Skills

One of our biggest mantras about training is …What is your dog learning right at this moment and is it something you want them to learn? Our dogs are constantly learning, from you as well as everything in their environment and it is up to you, the owner, to determine what they learn. To be able to do this you must think critically when you are working with your dog. One of our major goals at Green Acres is to help you become skilled at stepping back and questioning what your dog is learning at all times and determining ways to trouble shoot problematic behaviors.

Managing For Success

Easily one of the most overlooked components of training is the management of the dog’s environment and what behaviors they are inadvertently learning and practicing. A dog that is allowed to practice jumping on people will learn to jump on people. The key is to learn how to prevent the environment and others from rewarding behaviors that you do not want and to set your dog up to be successful in progressive steps.

APDT C.L.A.S.S. (Canine Life and Social Skills)

All of the classes in our training curriculum are based upon the three levels of the C.L.A.S.S. (Canine Life and Social Skills) program created by the APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers).

At the heart of the C.L.A.S.S. program is the strengthening of relationships between humans and their canine companions through education and the use of positive reinforcement training. We will focus on basic behaviors with a real world twist. Things such as sitting and waiting at doors, coming when called, remaining by your side while you converse with someone, lying down by your side quietly, leash walking, leaving items upon request and giving up objects when asked are just some of the behaviors we teach. It is our goal that student and handler teams will be prepared to take the corresponding C.L.A.S.S. evaluation after they have completed each level should they wish to do so. For more information on the APDT C.L.A.S.S. program, checkout the website http://www.mydoghasclass.com/

<Listen to a Podcast About APDT C.L.A.S.S>

Class Requirements & Registration

The primary handler in our classes must be at least 14 years old, or have been pre-approved by the instructor.

All dogs attending our classes need to be current on vaccinations for distemper, rabies and canine cough (Bordetella). You will need to provide a copy of your pet's most recent vaccination record before the first class. Due to their age, puppies are not expected to have been vaccinated for rabies.

Classes are held indoors at Green Acres. We also hold some classes outdoors when the dogs are ready for extra distractions and as the weather permits.

Our classes are small and fill very quickly, so we suggest you register as soon as possible.  To reserve a place, fill out the appropriate registration form, sign the waiver of liability on the back, and return it with the class fee.  Please indicate your second choice for class dates and times, in case your first choice is not available.  If you would like to observe a class before registering, please give us a call at 945-6841 to make arrangements.

Your registration will be confirmed as soon as we have payment. You may withdraw from a class and receive a refund (minus a $15 handling fee) anytime up until 14 days before the first class. After this time your registration fee becomes non-refundable.

Please call 945-6841 if you have any questions.

Download a copy of material below as a PDF

List to a podcast about our classes

We Make Training Fun for You and Your Dog!

• Dog Friendly! – NO pain, intimidation, dominance, alpha rolls, scruff shakes, prong, choke or shock collars.
• Small class sizes, individual attention.
• Relaxed, supportive atmosphere.
• Family attendance encouraged.
• Scientific, proven, effective training methods for all dogs and breeds.
• Program supervised by Certified Professional Dog Trainers and Professional Members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.

Puppy Headstart

 “I learned more in the first week than I did in a number of other training classes I’ve taken.”-M.L.

“I truly loved the opportunity to socialize my young puppy with other dogs around her age. Seeing her progress from the first class, where all she did was hide underneath me, to the final class, at which point she couldn’t wait to play and run with the other puppies was great! Our instructors were very calm and knowledgeable, which instilled confidence in the safety of the class.” B.R.

“Thank you for your wonderful programs available at your facility!” B.R.

“Puppy Headstart was worth every penny! Instructors were excellent in their knowledge, patience and supportive nature. They did not make you feel like bad puppy parents but educated and supported your efforts to raise an excellent pet. Thank you very much!” K.F.

“I’ve had four previous dogs during my adult life and have learned so much in this puppy class that I didn’t know before.” L.J.

This course is designed to help you and your new puppy keep your relationship on a positive track. It is a four week class that includes time for play with other puppies and discussion of the following topics; how dogs learn, canine language, management, housetraining, play biting, chewing, jumping, socialization and habituation, nutrition and handling. This class has open enrollment with a new class starting every week, so give us a call and join the fun. Puppy Headstart is limited to puppies under 16 weeks of age, unless preapproved by the instructor.

The fee for Puppy Headstart is $60.00. If you enroll in Basic Manners at the same time you will receive a $15 discount on the Basic Manners class.

Level 1: Basic Manners

“This class was really fun. We quickly realized what we could change to promote a well-mannered puppy, and were delighted when it worked. The trainers were so nice and helpful.” J.W.

“My dog learned so much in this class, but more importantly, we learned a lot about being a trainer! Thank you so much for everything you’ve taught us.” J. R. & J.N.

“This class was great! A lot of fun for both us and our dog. We look forward to continuing with the level 2 classes.” B.R.

“I was glad we could all go as a family and all work together.” J.G.

 “I really enjoyed the enthusiastic atmosphere of teaching and learning. I felt the goal of teaching my dog was attainable.” L.Z.

Our introductory level class, Basic Manners, is for dogs 16 weeks and older that need to learn the basics. The first class is our Introduction to Dog Behavior and Clicker Training seminar, a three-hour orientation session which you attend without your dog. During this session we will teach you the fundamentals of canine behavior, how your dog learns and communicates, and the fundamentals of dog training using reward based methods. Each enrollee will receive our comprehensive course handbook, Best Friends for Life.

The remaining seven sessions will be 45 to 50 minutes in length. We’ll teach you how to train your dog to respond to visual and audible cues for Attention, Sit, Down, Come, Walking Politely, Stay, Give, Take It and Leave It. As the dogs learn these behaviors we will begin to put them into real world use such as waiting at the door, calm greetings, waiting for the food bowl and giving up items when requested. Socialization will be strongly encouraged and specified areas of concern will be addressed. The fee for Basic Manners is $130.

While not required, most students who wish to pursue the APDT C.L.A.S.S. program should be sufficiently prepared to take the B.A. Level of the C.L.A.S.S. evaluation after completion of Basic Manners.

Introduction to Dog Behavior & Clicker Training

This class is a three-hour seminar for people only. In this course we will introduce you to the fundamentals of clicker training, canine behavior and canine communication. Class book and materials are not included, but may be purchased for an additional charge. The fee for this class is $25.

Introductory Dog Training Schedule of Classes

Please Note: Dogs that are fearful or aggressive are typically not appropriate for group training classes. They are unlikely to succeed in a class setting and there is a high probability of their reactive behavior getting worse.  We can still help you, and will use the same methods, but would suggest you talk to us about our behavior consultation and private training services. Should you enroll in a group class and we determine that your dog is overly reactive, we will credit the remainder of any class fees for a behavior consultation or private training. If you are concerned that your dog may be reactive in a class setting, please contact us for an evaluation, prior to registering.

Download a copy of material below as a PDF

 Level 2 Classes: Out and About & Glad to See You

“Relaxed pace, positive upbeat approach.” J.M.

“The trainers are so good at recognizing each dog’s personality and tailoring their suggestions individually.” P.F.

“I felt as if my dog was constantly engaged.”

“(This class) helped to refine our skills as trainers.” – T.P.

“(The staff) has the ability to meet the dog and ‘parent’ where they are at.”-R.A.

Our Level 2 courses have been designed to allow you to choose the areas where you would like to concentrate your efforts. These classes meet once a week for 45 to 50 minutes for 6 consecutive weeks of instruction for students and dogs. You may take one or both of these classes, and need not take them in any specific order. It is our hope that after the completion of both of the level 2 classes that dog and handler teams will be able to pass the M.A. Level of the APDT C.L.A.S.S. evaluation should they so desire.

Prerequisites for Level 2 Classes: completion of GAKS Basic Manners course and/or pre-approval of GAKS training staff.

Out and About: Training the Advanced Recall and Heel

This workshop focuses on two of the most important behaviors you can teach your dog:

• •coming when called, and
• •staying close by your side while out for a walk

Building on the foundational skills you learned in your Basic Manners class, you and your dog will practice recall past a variety of distractions such as other dogs and edible objects on the ground as well as walking politely on leash to include automatic sits and passing by other dogs and people. Also covered at an advanced level in this class are the leave it and attention behaviors. Weather permitting; considerable amounts of class time will be spent outside, so that skills can be repeatedly practiced in real world environments.

Glad to See You: Building upon the Stay and Polite Greeting Behaviors

This workshop focuses on two foundational obedience behaviors:

• •stay/wait, and
• •greeting other people and dogs in an appropriate, calm manner

Working as a team, you and your dog will continue to build upon the stay behavior introduced in Basic Manners. The focus will be on adding distance as well as distraction to the stays, teaching dogs to wait in cars until cued to exit and learning to settle calmly by your side in distracting environments. You and your dog will also practice polite greeting behaviors: learning to anticipate, manage, and conduct calm, appropriate interactions. We’ll practice polite doorway etiquette skills; additionally, you will learn how to help your dog wait patiently when they’re not the center of your attention. The stand will be introduced at this level and time will be spent on handling skills. Weather permitting; considerable amounts of class time will be spent outside, so that skills can be repeatedly practiced in real world environments.

 Level 2 Class Schedule

            * Sign up for both Level 2 classes at the same time for $170, a $10 discount.

Download a copy of material below as a PDF

We bring dogs into our families as companions to share our lives. How much of our lives they can fully share is ultimately determined by their level of training and their habituation to different situations and environments. The APDT C.L.A.S.S. certification is a solid baseline of a “good-mannered” dog that is able to join us in most aspects of family life. Even if you do not aspire to take any of the APDT C.L.A.S.S. tests, we encourage you to train yourself and your dog to this level so that you can both enjoy your relationship to its fullest.

Level 3: Advanced Skills

This six week training class brings it all back together and focuses on fine tuning the behaviors you and your dog have been working on. We combine elements from the APDT  C.L.A.S.S. PhD. evaluation (www.mydoghasclass.org), the Canine Good Citizens test, (http://www.akc.org/events/cgc/), and the Therapy Dogs International evaluation (http://www.tdi-dog.org/). Key behaviors practiced include working around even greater distractions and proofing behaviors in a variety of situations. Practice will range from dogs learning to remain seated while being petted by individuals in wheelchairs to sitting and downing whenever you ask no matter what you are doing or where you are. We’ll also begin to combine basic behaviors into more complex chains of behaviors. Whether your intent is a Therapy dog, a C.L.A.S.S. Ph.D. or just an awesome companion, this session is sure to help you and your canine companion achieve your goals.

The fee for this class is $90.

Level 3 Class Schedule

We Make Training Fun for You and Your Dog!

• Dog Friendly! – NO pain, intimidation, dominance, alpha rolls, scruff shakes, prong, choke or shock collars.
• Individual attention designed to meet your individual situation
• Relaxed, supportive atmosphere.
• Family attendance encouraged.
• Scientific, proven, effective training methods for all dogs and breeds.
• Program supervised by Certified Professional Dog Trainers and Professional Members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.

Help! Now!

This is a one-time training session for those who:

• Have recently obtained a new dog that is too old for the Puppy Headstart class but are in need of immediate assistance for puppy behaviors that they find frustrating and problematic;
• Have adopted an older dog and are experiencing some minor transition difficulties;
• Are anticipating major life changes, such as a move or the addition of a child and are trying to minimize the impact on their dog;
• Have yet to adopt their dog and are just looking to be prepared and step off on the right paw!

We will help you with common areas of concern such as housetraining, chewing, jumping, and general rowdy behavior. We will discuss the role of management, brain games, establishment of reasonable expectations and how to set your dog up for success. A Help! Now! Session is tailored specifically to your individual dog and your individual situation. This program is not designed to assess or deal with serious issues such as separation anxiety, fear or aggression.

The cost for Help! Now! is $30 for half an hour, after which $15 is added for each subsequent 15 minutes. This class is scheduled on an individual basis by calling us at 945-6841.

Private Sessions

Green Acres Kennel Shop recognizes that group training classes will not work for all people and dogs. We offer a variety of private dog training options including one-on-one sessions and training during daycare and boarding.

Our private training sessions are customized to your specific needs. Therefore, prior to beginning any private training sessions you will need to meet with one of our senior trainers so that we can discuss your goals for you and your dog. If the trainer determines your concerns are behavioral issues (reactivity, aggression, anxiety, etc.) as opposed to training (sit, recall, heeling, etc.) they will refer you for a behavioral consultation with our behavioral consultants instead of private training. If the trainer determines that your goal can be achieved with training, they will document your goals and develop a training plan including the minimum number of training sessions to achieve those goals.

After you have agreed to the developed training plan, you will be asked to attend one of our Introduction to Dog Behavior & Clicker Training seminars as part of a group or as a private session. If you have recently attended one of these sessions as part of our group classes, this requirement will be waived. Private training sessions with you and your dog, or between one of our trainers and your dog while the dog is in our boarding or daycare, will begin after you have attended this seminar. If you have selected our Board and Train option, we will also schedule sessions with the trainer and with you and your dog so that you can learn how to work with your dog at home.

We can offer in-home training after we have established your training goals, but there will be an additional fee based on your location.

Pricing for private training is noted below.

Selecting the Perfect Pet

This is a unique, one time question and answer session for people who are contemplating getting a pet and are unsure of whether to get a dog or a cat, or which breed will best match their family and lifestyle. In this free program, we will answer your questions and help you determine which pet will make the best match for you. Selecting the Perfect Pet is scheduled on an individual basis, so give us a call at 945-6841.

HELP! NOW!

This is a one-time training session for those who:

• Have recently obtained a new dog that is too old for the Puppy Headstart class but are in need of immediate assistance for puppy behaviors that they find frustrating and problematic;
• Have adopted an older dog and are experiencing some minor transition difficulties;
• Are anticipating major life changes, such as a move or the addition of a child and are trying to minimize the impact on their dog;
• Have yet to adopt their dog and are just looking to be prepared and step off on the right paw!

We will help you with common areas of concern such as housetraining, chewing, jumping, and general rowdy behavior. We will discuss the role of management, brain games, establishment of reasonable expectations and how to set your dog up for success. A Help! Now! Session is tailored specifically to your individual dog and your individual situation. This program is not designed to assess or deal with serious issues such as separation anxiety, fear or aggression.

The cost for Help! Now! is $30 for half an hour, after which $15 is added for each subsequent 15 minutes. This class is scheduled on an individual basis by calling us at 945-6841.

Introduction to Dog Behavior & Clicker Training

This class is a three-hour seminar for *people only*. In this course we will introduce you to the fundamentals of clicker training, canine behavior and canine communication. Class book and materials are not included, but may be purchased for an additional charge. The fee for this class is $25.

“These trainers are awesome!!! You can tell hey love dogs just as much as we do.” M.F.

“The small number of students allowed a lot of one on one time and allowed for discussion of other issues that come up from week to week.”

“Classes were great. Small enough so everyone could get help and have questions answered.”

One of the hallmarks of classes here at Green Acres is our small class sizes. We truly believe that to receive the best experience possible and to help you achieve your goals that personal attention is a must. It is not uncommon for us to have 2:5 instructors to student ratio so that we can better assist each team individually.

Led by Don Hanson, co-owner of Green Acres Kennel Shop and past President/Chair of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), the Green Acres Training Staff has over 55 years of collective professional training experience and boasts four Certified Professional Dog Trainers on staff. All of our training staff are professional members of the (APDT) and as such display their commitment to professional growth. 

Lead Instructors

Don Hanson, BFRAP, CDBC, CPDT-KA

Don's Credentials | Don's CV | Don's Publications | Don's Speaking Engagements

Don Hanson is the co-owner of the Green Acres Kennel Shop in Bangor, Maine, where he is also the Director of Behavior Counseling and Training. As a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC), Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and Bach Foundation Registered Animal Practitioner (BFRAP), Don assists guardians and their dogs and cats with everything from minor training issues to serious behavioral problems such as separation anxiety, fear, and aggression. Don has also been a certified evaluator for Therapy Dogs International, testing dog and guardian teams who wish to bring canine companionship to nursing homes and hospitals. Don is an APDT C.L.A.S.S. instructor.

Don and his wife share their lives with one dog (Tikken – Golden Retriever) and three cats (Batman, Thelma and Louise).

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Kate Dutra, B.S., CPTC, CPDT-KA

Kate joined the Green Acres Team in 1992 and was our Kennel Manager until 2002, when she returned to the University of Maine and completed her degree in Sociology. After working in some other fields, Kate returned full time to Green Acres in 2008 and became the Operations Manager.

Kate is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer since 2006 and is also an APDT C.L.A.S.S. Instructor and Evaluator. Kate also works with Don in the Behavior Counseling and is the co-host of the Woof-Meow Show. Having worked the retail side of Green Acres for years, Kate is very knowledgeable about pet nutrition and products.

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Angela Allen, M.A., CPTC, CPDT-KA

Angela joined the Green Acres team in 2001 as a Certified Pet Care Technician. As part of the Green Acres employee orientation, Angela participated in the Basic Manners Orientation which opened her eyes to a new, wonderful method of dog training. She has been active in the Green Acres Training program ever since. In 2008, Angela took a comprehensive exam about dog training and became a Certified Professional Dog Trainer.

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Erin Bessey, B.S., CPCT, CPDT-KA

Erin originally joined the Green Acres team while in college in 2005 as a Certified Pet Care Technician and quickly showed an interest and aptitude for training and became an Assistant Dog Trainer. In 2008, she graduated from the University of Maine with a B.S. in Zoology and moved to the Augusta area to accept a position with a veterinary hospital thus ending her time in Bangor and with Green Acres. A couple of years went by and in 2010 Erin decided that the commute was worth it and rejoined the Green Acres Training staff. She completed the necessary prerequisites and in 2011 Erin took the national exam and became a Certified Professional Dog Trainer. Erin is dedicated to educating people on how to understand and train their dogs.

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Tracy Haskell, B.S., CAPCT

Tracy joined the Green Acres Team in February of 2007, working with our boarding and daycare guests as a Certified Pet Care Technician. An Animal Sciences graduate from the University of Maine, Tracy joined our training team in 2008 and is now working towards accumulating the necessary hours so that she can sit for the Certified Professional Dog Trainer exam.

When not at Green Acres, Tracy is in school studying to become a Secondary English Teacher. During her few moments of downtime, Tracy is kept extremely active by Romie, her Retriever mix. She enjoys hiking, skiing, horseback riding and reading.

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Gwyneth Mattingly, M.A.

Gwyn has been training at Green Acres since 2009, after being a student in several of our training classes with her own dogs. Gwyn has now accumulated enough teaching hours and is currently studying for the CPDT-KA exam.

When not at Green Acres, Gwyn works full time in the medical profession. She shares her home with Jazmin, a spunky GoldenDoodle, and Buckley, a Retriever mix, whom she adopted from BHS when he was 3 years old. Buckley and Gwyn have since become a registered therapy dog and handler team and bring much joy to patients at a local hospital as well as the kids at the correctional facility. In addition to her dogs, 3 cats, Jemma, Faith and Courage, also reside in the Mattingly household. In her spare time, you will most likely find Gwyn hiking on the top of some mountain with her dogs. There is nothing more beautiful to Gwyn than watching two dogs have the time of their life!

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Hilary Woodard, CPTC

Hilary joined the Green Acres kennel staff in the fall of 2008, caring for our boarding and daycare guests as a Certified Pet Care Technician. She quickly developed an interest in training and is now working as an instructor. She can also often be found in the role of Customer Service Associate at Green Acres, happily assisting clients with the booking of reservations or answering questions about foods and supplies. Currently Hilary is working toward the necessary accumulated hours required to sit for the Certified Professional Dog Training exam.

Hilary’s time away from Green Acres is spent working towards a degree in Library Sciences and she can often be found with her nose in the books. Hilary shares her home with her boyfriend, and Gemma, her Vizsla, and new kitten Phillip.

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Selecting a dog training instructor and class is an important decision. The wrong decision could traumatize you or your dog and set learning back extensively. We recommend you use the following criteria for selecting a dog training instructor.

1. Select a trainer and class that is Dog-Friendly. A Dog-Friendly instructor will NOT use or recommend any methods or tools that work on the principal of intimidation or coercion or that have been designed to cause the dog physical, mental or emotional pain. That means they will NEVER use or recommend shock collars, choke collars, prong collars, squirt bottles, scruff shakes, alpha rollovers or other inhumane tools and techniques.
2. Select a trainer who complies with the American Humane Association's Guide to Humane Dog Training. Such trainers will rely on teaching methods that use positive reinforcement for good behavior rather than punishment for unacceptable behavior.

3. Verify the trainer's credentials. Ideally they will be a Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT) accredited by the Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers (CCPDT) or will work under the supervision of one so qualified.

   In order to become a CPDT, a trainer must first have 300 hours of experience teaching dog training classes. They must also take and pass a written examination that covers instructional skills, animal husbandry, ethology, learning theory, and training equipment.

   The CCPDT is the first and only organization in the world to offer a standardized certification program for dog trainers. While some trainers may say they are "certified," if it is not by the CCPDT it may not mean much. You can find a list of trainers certified by the CCPDT at http://ccpdt.org/rstr/index.html

   Be advised that just because a trainer has the CPDT accreditation it does not mean they are Dog Friendly. A CPDT has demonstrated that they have the requisite knowledge to train dogs, but you will need to ask and verify their training philosophy.

4. Ask if the trainer is a member of any of the following organizations; TrulyDogFriendly.com, the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), or the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). Dog training is an evolving profession and those who are committed to it are members of one or all of these organizations in an effort to stay current in the field.

   Members of TrulyDogFriendly.com are devoted to the type of dog-friendly training we practice at Green Acres. While the APDT and IAABC have statements on dog friendly training, they are statements of goals for their members and not requirements, so you will still need to screen carefully.

5. Observe a training class without your dog. Are the dogs and people having a good time? Talk with a few participants and see if they are comfortable with the trainer's methods. If someone won't let you observe a class, don't enroll.
6. Look for trainers who treat people and dogs with respect, rather than an "I'm the boss" attitude. Remember, you will be the one actually being taught by this person, not your dog.
7. Ask the instructor about their methods for teaching people. Do they provide comprehensive written materials? Do they demonstrate how to teach a behavior? Do they assist you as you practice with your dog? Are they available for questions outside of class?
8. Avoid trainers who offer guarantees about results. These trainers are either ignoring or do not understand the complexity of animal behavior.
9. Look for classes with at least one instructor for every 8 to 10 students. At Green Acres a typical class of 5 to 6 students will have two instructors.
10. Avoid trainers who object to using food as a training reward. Food is an acceptable positive reinforcement training tool. Just like us, our dogs do things because there is something in it for them, usually food. (If the trainer insists that dogs should work for praise only, ask him/her if you can take their classes for free if you tell him/her how good it is.)
11. Run away from trainers who insist you use a choke chain or pinch collar. The new style harnesses and head collars are humane alternatives to choke chains and pinch collars.
12. A good instructor will take care to protect your dog's health in a group setting. Ask if dogs and puppies are required to be vaccinated prior to class and, if so, which vaccines are required. Make sure you and your veterinarian are comfortable with the vaccination requirements.

Once you start a dog training class remember the following:

1. Do not allow a trainer to demonstrate with your dog unless they tell you first exactly what they plan to do.
2. Do not be afraid to tell a trainer to stop if s/he is doing something to your dog you don't like.
3. If a trainer tells you to do something that you don't feel good about, do not do it! Do not be intimidated, bullied or shamed into doing something that you believe is not in your dog's best interest.
4. And last, but certainly not least, have fun while training your pet!

Please fill out and sign registration form.  Submit to:

Mailing Address

Green Acres Kennel Shop
1653 Union Street
Bangor, ME 04401-2204

Phone Number

207-945-6841

Fax Number

207-942-6768

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Why is training a dog so important?

Dogs are a separate species from people and as such have their own special needs and natural instincts. They communicate differently than we humans do, and many of their normal behaviors are counter to our own. When we bring a dog or puppy into our homes and our lives we are asking them to change much of what is natural about their existence. We not only need to teach them how to fit in, but also teach ourselves about their needs so that we can learn to accommodate them and adjust our expectations to make the best possible situation for both species; dog and human. If we do not take the time to train our dogs and educate ourselves we will both be frustrated and not nearly as happy as we could be.

What is the best way to train my dog?

First and foremost you want to make sure you train your dog in a manner that is “Dog-Friendly.”

What is “Dog-Friendly” training?

There are several training groups and individuals that talk about “dog-friendly” training and as a result there are several different definitions. At Green Acres “dog-friendly” training is all about understanding and meeting the needs of our dogs as their own unique species, while keeping in mind that each dog is an individual. It also means that we train with methods and tools which are humane, gentle, kind and effective.

“Dog-Friendly” training means we encourage behavior we like with frequent and high value rewards and either prevent or ignore behavior we do not like. We do not use or recommend any methods or tools that work on the principal of intimidation or coercion or that have been designed to cause the dog pain. That means we never use or recommend shock collars, choke collars, prong collars, squirt bottles, scruff shakes, alpha rollovers or other inhumane tools and techniques. We do not base our training on the dominance construct which has been refuted by scientific research (see our handouts Dominance: Reality or Myth and Position Statement on the Use of Dominance and Punishment).

In their position statement on the use of punishment in animal training the American Society of Animal Behavior states “…punishment (e.g. choke chains, pinch collars, and electronic collars) should not be used as a first-line or early-use treatment for behavior problems. This is due to the potential adverse effects which include but are not limited to: inhibition of learning, increased fear-related and aggressive behaviors, and injury to animals and people interacting with animals. You can read their entire position statement at: http://avsabonline.org/uploads/position_statements/Combined_Punishment_Statements1-25-13.pdf

What is the best way to train my dog in a “Dog-Friendly” manner?

The first step in training your dog is to educate yourself on the principles and methodology of teaching desired behaviors. You can do that by reading books, watching videos or attending a class. Just be careful and make sure you select books, videos and classes that are “Dog-Friendly.”  We maintain a list of recommended books, videos and articles on our website. I suggest people start with a good “dog-friendly” training class and supplement their learning with books and videos.

Why do you prefer dog training classes?

There are several reasons we prefer “dog-friendly” classes over any other method of dog training. The first is that you have an instructor of whom you can ask questions. Good dog training instructors recognize that individual students may learn differently. Some learn best by reading, some by observing and some by doing. The best classes will provide you with ample written instructions, a demonstration of how the instructor would train the behavior, and then an opportunity for you to practice the behavior while the instructor observes and assists you. Additionally, group classes form a valuable social function, providing an opportunity for puppy and dog guardians to share frustrations and more importantly successes. They also meet part of the dogs need to be socialized with other people and dogs.

At what age should I start training my dog?

The best time to start training a dog is when they are a young puppy. Every waking moment of every day, your dog is learning something. You need to ask yourself if it is something you want your dog to learn. With the use of positive reinforcement training, puppies can start their training as soon as they arrive in your home. While it is never too late to start training, the earlier you start the easier training will be because neither you nor your dog will have acquired bad habits which will require “untraining.”

Should you have adopted an older rescue dog that already has a history of learned behavior, the premise remains the same that they are continually learning how to function in their new environment. That having been said, unless you are experiencing some serious training issues, it may be best to give the new dog a month or so to settle into their new home and establish a bond with you before getting into formal training. This is not meant to imply that there should not be rules and boundaries or that your dog should be allowed to practice undesirable behaviors or that you should not do some basics in the home using positive reinforcement techniques. This is a situation where a client might find our Help! Now! program very useful.

Does a puppy need to wait until they have completed all of their vaccines before starting a training class?

Sadly, this is still one of the biggest misconceptions that people have about training classes. While it is important that your puppy be started on vaccines that you and your veterinarian determine are necessary, it is absolutely critical that you start training and socialization before those vaccines are completed. In a letter to all veterinarians, Dr. R. K. Anderson, Professor and Director Emeritus, Animal Behavior Clinic and Center to Study Human/Animal Relationships and Environments at the University of Minnesota states: “Experience and epidemiologic data support the relative safety and lack of transmission of disease in these puppy socialization classes over the past 10 years in many parts of the United States.  In fact; the risk of a dog dying because of infection with distemper or parvo disease is far less than the much higher risk of a dog dying (euthanasia) because of a behavior problem.”  The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior also emphasizes the importance of starting a puppy in class before pups have completed all of their vaccinations. The position can be reviewed at: http://avsabonline.org/uploads/position_statements/puppy_socialization1-25-13.pdf

What types of classes does Green Acres offer?

Green Acres classes focus on training your dog to be a fun, well-mannered companion. We offer two introductory classes; a Puppy Headstart class for young dogs (8 to 16 weeks of age when class begins) and a Basic Manners class for dogs older than 16 weeks of age when class begins. We also offer Level 2 and Level 3 classes for people that want to take their dog beyond the basics.

What will my dog and I learn in a class?

In Puppy Headstart we will focus on the normal puppy behaviors that we humans find so distressing such as play biting, chewing, housetraining, jumping, etc. Time is allotted for play group and questions. 

In Basic Manners our focus is more on actual behaviors such as attention, sit, down, recall, leash walking, and take it and leave it. We teach you to use visual cues or hand signals before verbal cues, because that is our dog’s primary means of communicating.

What is clicker training?

Clicker training is a positive, motivational training method based on the scientific principles of learning theory and operant conditioning. The basic principle of clicker training is that behaviors, which are rewarded, are made stronger and occur more frequently. A small mechanical clicker is used to mark the precise instant your dog is performing a behavior as requested and then is followed by a reward, usually a tasty treat. Clicker training makes our dogs active partners in the training process. By having to think about what we want, dogs generally learn quicker, retain lessons better and have more fun doing so. Once a dog has learned a behavior such as “down” we will associate it with both a hand signal and a word cue and start to phase out the use of the clicker.

So what is it about the clicker that makes it work so well?

There is nothing magical about the clicker. It is just utilized to make a sound which is used as an event marker to indicate to the dog the precise instant it has done exactly what we wanted. The trainers at Sea World use a whistle as an alternative to the clicker, and I know trainers that have used a flashlight to train deaf dogs and even goldfish. What makes these event markers work so well is that they mark the animal’s behavior precisely and unemotionally. The animal learns that the flash of light or click means they have done a good job and will be rewarded.

 Will clicker trainer work with all dogs?

Yes! Clicker training, or more precisely positive reinforcement training with an event marker, will work with all species of animals. The same techniques we use in our classes at Green Acres have been used to successfully train killer whales, tigers, cats, cockroaches, and even people. There are unfortunately a few “old-fashioned” trainers out there that say clicker training does not work on all animals or some species of dogs simply because they do not understand the science behind clicker training and operant conditioning.