Training – Behavior – Problem Solving
“In order to really enjoy a dog, one merely doesn’t try to train him to be semi-human. The point of it is to open oneself to the possibility of becoming partly a dog.”
– EDWARD HOAGLAND
Expert Obedience Training Trusted By The Stars
Our Head Trainer Zephyr Clarke-Dolberg has worked with the best friends of many famous professional athletes, including WNBA Legend Candace Parker, NBA Stars Carlos Boozer, Jimmy Butler, members of the New England Patriots and many more! Now your best friend can learn just like these famous pooches.
Dog Behavior Specialist
Zephyr is a behaviourist renowned for working with even the toughest cases and turning them around!
Obedience & Problem Solving
Obedience training often clears up behavioral problems because boredom is usually the culprit for destructiveness and other issues. Most dogs are natural athletes, and giving them a constructive outlet for their energy, like obedience training, can be a truly rewarding process and experience. Zephyr encourages you to challenge yourself and your best friend.
The Leader of the Pack
Real Results
There will always be new circumstances that impact a dog’s behavior, but Zephyr will provide the framework to help you and your companion immediately and effectively deal with the issues that may seem impossible to overcome.
Zephyr’s proven methods and understanding of canine behavior allow him to achieve noticeable, positive changes in your dog.
Greater Boston Dog Obedience Training is the perfect way to achieve your goals.
Our Philosophy and Mission:
Our philosophy and style are balanced, caring, effective and appeals to both the common sense of the human and the dog. It is our mission to help owners gain a new knowledge of their dogs’ behavior. This allows them to enjoy the pleasures of having a true companion. At Greater Boston Dog, it is our goal to create bonds that last a lifetime by developing a relationship built on trust, mutual respect, and affection.
Greater Boston Dog will help you solve problems and achieve your goals.
With a new understanding of your dog’s primal need for mental and physical exercise, pack structure and affection at the right times and in multiple ways, you will be on your way to creating a balanced and reliable companion.
BEHAVIORAL EVALUATION CONSULTATION
The Greater Boston Dog Evaluation is hands on, and the best way to give you an honest assessment and figure out the program that works best for you and your dog. A typical evaluation is an hour and a half in length. We will discuss your needs, wants, and goals for training, and devise a plan to achieve success. We will immediately address high priority issues. Often common problem behaviors stem from a lack of leadership, exercise, discipline, and affection given at the wrong times. Additionally, simply providing a constructive outlet for their energy like obedience training can solve many issues alone. Often owners are amazed to see a marked improvement in their dog after just a single session.
We will be providing you with a wealth of valuable information! We encourage you to take notes in all of these wonderful sessions!
Fee $150
DOG OBEDIENCE TRAINING PRIVATE LESSONS
ABOUT DOG OBEDIENCE PROGRAMS
All obedience programs also address dog behavior problems like jumping, chewing, digging, nipping, guarding, anxiety, etc.…
Greater Boston Dog believes in the power of private lessons which ensures you get the most out of each obedience session. You will see a change in your dog even after just one session. Keep in mind training begins the process of lifetime conditioning, we are building expectations for future behavior. Every dog and family is different, therefore we will suggest programs based on your family and your goals.
We will be providing you with a wealth of valuable information! We encourage you to take notes in all of these wonderful sessions!
3 session packages – Fee $375
*price is for sessions that take place at our training center, travel fees will apply for sessions off-site.
BASIC OBEDIENCE
6 commands on a 5ft lead. Hand signals and verbal
HEEL, AUTOMATIC SIT, SIT, DOWN, STAY, COME.
INTERMEDIATE OBEDIENCE
12 commands on a 5ft lead… Hand signals and verbal
HEEL, AUTOMATIC SIT, SIT, DOWN, STAY, COME, DOWN, STAY, DROP IT, LEAVE IT, KENNEL, PLACE, OK
ADVANCED OBEDIENCE
12 commands on 20ft lead… Hand signals and verbal
HEEL, AUTOMATIC SIT, SIT, DOWN, STAY, COME, DOWN, STAY, DROP IT, LEAVE IT, KENNEL, PLACE, OK
OFF LEASH OBEDIENCE
Off Leash e-collar obedience training is available only after completing our advanced training program
E-COLLAR TRAINING
A note on e-collars: A wonderful tool when used properly that gives us the ability to reach out at great distances and communicate with your dog, possibly prevent a tragedy, or save your dog’s life.
They can be used in a multitude of ways for training and behavior modification. Some trainers will teach e-collar obedience without prior training which is like building a high rise with no foundation! We introduce the e-collar in a very specific way for obedience and like to think of its use as more of an insurance in the event you need it.
Puppy Training
PUPPY 101
This one-time session is a combination of our evaluation, potty training, behavior and etiquette, imprinting and loose leash walking lessons. This option is great for brand new puppies 8 weeks of age and up. This meeting is 2 hours in length and after meeting you and your pup we will focus our time on teaching you the tips and tricks, ins and outs and ups and downs of puppyhood including potty training, leash handling and the phases and stages of puppies. Providing you with realistic expectations of the process, and it is a process, to make this a successful and enjoyable experience of raising your new addition to the family
Fee $225
PUPPY OBEDIENCE TRAINING / PRIVATE LESSONS
(All Puppy obedience programs also address dog behavior problems like jumping, chewing, digging, nipping etc.)
Greater Boston Dog believes in the power of private lessons which ensures you to get the most out of each obedience session. Some feel lost with the distractions of a group setting, some just need or prefer the benefit of the undivided attention, expertise and guidance we give you to help you train your own dog. You will see a change in your dog even after just one session. Keep in mind training begins the process of lifetime conditioning, we are building expectations for future behavior. Every dog and family is different, therefore we will suggest programs based on.
We will be providing you with a wealth of valuable information! We encourage you to take notes in all of these wonderful sessions!
PUPPY BITING / NIPPING
Your new puppy will bite, nip, chew and scratch. Greater Boston Dog will teach you caring and effective methods for addressing common, and not so common puppy behavior.
IMPRINTING
This is a program specifically designed for first time dog owners, however long-time dog owners will also benefit from Zephyr’s expertise.
The fact of the matter is your puppy is learning from every interaction whether you are intentionally training him or unintentionally the one being trained.
Greater Boston Dog will help you to stay a step ahead of your pup while intelligently and effortlessly planting seeds for future behavior, etiquette and obedience training.
Ideally, training in this format starts the day the pup enters the home. Lucky for us they live in the moment and therefore even if his introduction to life in your home has been less than perfect, we can help you turn it around.
DOG BOARDING AND TRAINING PROGRAMS
ALL BOARDING AND TRAINING PROGRAMS INCLUDE:
3 hours of owner training: 2 hours upon transfer of the dog back to owner or handler and 1 hour follow-up at home, included if used within a month of your dog returning home.
- All programs will also address behavioral problems such as jumping, chewing, digging, nipping etc., determined based on prior evaluation
- All dogs must be up to date on vaccines as well as monthly heartworm, flea & tick
- An evaluation is required for acceptance into any of our programs.
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Our Board and Train Programs are available in 2-week, 4-week, or 6-week packages and are based on prior evaluation. An evaluation is required for acceptance into any of our programs..
2 WEEK PROGRAM
Not available for dogs displaying human or dog aggression or severe fear and anxiety issues.
In this program, we will address behavioral issues discussed in the evaluation and work on the 6 obedience commands on a 5-foot leash.
Fee $2400
4 WEEK PROGRAM
Not available for dogs displaying human or dog aggression.
In this program we will address behavioral issues discussed in the evaluation and work on the 12 obedience commands off leash with a Dogtra Brand E-Collar*
Fee $5000 *includes e-collar ($250 value)
6 WEEK PROGRAM
For dogs displaying aggressive behaviors, intense anxiety or fear.
In this program we will address behavioral issues discussed in the evaluation and work on the 12 obedience commands off leash with a Dogtra Brand E-Collar*
Fee $7000 *includes e-collar ($250 value)
ALL PROGRAMS WORK ON THESE 6 OBEDIENCE COMMANDS
- Heel
- Auto sit
- Sit
- Stay
- Come
- Down
E-COLLAR TRAINING
A note on e-collars: A wonderful tool when used properly that gives us the ability to reach out at great distances and communicate with your dog, possibly prevent a tragedy, or save your dog’s life.
They can be used in a multitude of ways for training and behavior modification. Some trainers will teach e-collar obedience without prior training which is like building a high rise with no foundation! We introduce the e-collar in a very specific way for obedience and like to think of its use as more of an insurance in the event you need it.
PUPPY BOARDING AND TRAINING PROGRAMS
(Puppy obedience programs also address dog behavior problems like jumping, chewing, digging, nipping etc.)
Greater Boston Dog believes in the power of private lessons which ensures you to get the most out of each obedience session. Some feel lost with the distractions of a group setting, some just need or prefer the benefit of the undivided attention, expertise and guidance we give you to help you train your own dog. You will see a change in your dog even after just one session. Keep in mind training begins the process of lifetime conditioning, we are building expectations for future behavior. Every dog and family is different, therefore we will suggest programs based on.
We will be providing you with a wealth of valuable information! We encourage you to take notes in all of these wonderful sessions!
PUPPY BEHAVIOR AND ETIQUETTE
Often puppy behavior problems can be addressed in a single session, just like on the Dog Whisperer. Puppies with more serious issues for example separation anxiety, shyness, aggression require multiple sessions or may be a good candidate for boarding and training. All pups and owners will benefit from Greater Boston Dog Obedience Programs because teaching the right things from day 1 gives your dog a constructive outlet for their energy. Behavior problems are usually the symptoms of the greater problems like boredom, lack of leadership and pack structure. Zephyr has extensive knowledge of dog behavior and knows that the best way to love your dog, is to lead your dog and will help you achieve the role of pack leader. You will gain a new understanding of how to communicate with your dog. Zephyr applies balanced methods that will appeal to the common sense of both you and your dog.
2 WEEK PROGRAM
Not available for dogs displaying human or dog aggression or severe fear and anxiety issues.
In this program, we will address behavioral issues discussed in the evaluation and work on the 12 obedience commands on a 5-foot leash.
Fee $2400
4 WEEK PROGRAM
Not available for dogs displaying human or dog aggression.
In this program we will address behavioral issues discussed in the evaluation and work on the 12 obedience commands off leash with a Dogtra Brand E-Collar*
Fee $5000 *includes e-collar ($250 value)
6 WEEK PROGRAM
For For dogs displaying aggressive behaviors, intense anxiety or fear.
In this program we will address behavioral issues discussed in the evaluation and work on the 12 obedience commands off leash with a Dogtra Brand E-Collar*
Fee $7000 *includes e-collar ($250 value)
ALL PROGRAMS WORK ON THESE 6 OBEDIENCE COMMANDS
- Heel
- Auto sit
- Sit
- Stay
- Come
- Down
Specialized Training
Adult Dogs and Puppies
BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION
Whether you have just rescued a new dog with issues or have had ongoing problems for years, don’t be discouraged! Dogs live in the moment, and if we change what we are doing, they will change what they are doing. Greater Boston Dog will help you recognize what you may be unknowingly doing that adds to or creates unwanted dog behavior. We often find dog owners learn to accept inappropriate behavior or work around it, putting the dog away when company comes over or seeing another dog on your walk and immediately heading the other way for fear of a scene! Maybe your dog steals food from the counter, barks excessively, or jumps on you and company? Perhaps you are dealing with the other end of the spectrum with a dog that is exhibiting shyness, fear aggression, or separation anxiety? Whatever the case, we can help you problem solve and create the kind of companion you desire. Some issues can be addressed in a single session, such as leash pulling.
DOG BEHAVIOR AND ETIQUETTE
Often behavioral problems can be addressed in a single session! Dogs with more serious issues, for example separation anxiety, shyness and aggression require multiple sessions or may be a good candidate for boarding and training. All pups and owners will benefit from Greater Boston Dog Obedience Programs. Behavior problems are usually the symptoms of issues like boredom, lack of leadership and pack structure. Zephyr has extensive knowledge of dog behavior and knows that the best way to love your dog is to lead your dog and he will help you achieve the role of pack leader. You will gain a new understanding of how to communicate with your dog. Zephyr applies balanced methods that will appeal to the common sense of both you and your dog.
POTTY TRAINING / HOUSE-BREAKING
House-training or house-breaking is really a broad term for conditioning your dog’s expectations of his own behavior in the home. The main thing to acknowledge and accept is that this is a process that takes place over time and changes as your dog grows both physically and developmentally. There are multiple aspects of this process, the first and most pressing being Potty Training, the two main methods of this being Crate Training or Pee Pad Training. These methods are fundamentally different. Your method should ideally be chosen in advance of the pup or dog entering your home. Commonly when the dog starts to understand the process is generally when the humans begin to make mistakes; learn proven methods, tips, tricks and that stand the tests of time.
RESCUE DOG TRAINING
All dogs, especially rescue dogs, can come with a wide range of issues, or are simply more prone to exhibit dog behaviors which aren’t the most endearing. Zephyr deals with all of them and has worked with several Humane Societies and dog rescues, training staff for major Humane Society events, acclimating new owners and rehabilitating dogs to make them adoptable. We can assist you with whatever problems that may be occurring. Perhaps you have a great dog with no issues to speak of but would like obedience training and some basic control, which we believe every dog should have, we can help
SOCIALIZATION
Dog socializing begins with mom and litter mates, and it is an important part of development that should be continued as much as possible in a controlled environment with other puppies and dogs that you know are up to date with vaccines.
Part of understanding your dog’s interactions is recognizing a primal drive that dogs have for hierarchy. By natural selection, they are either a leader or a follower, and all are opportunists. Greater Boston Dog teaches you how to safely introduce, meet and greet other puppies, dogs and people; veterinarians and groomers will appreciate it. One of the main keys to creating a well-balanced dog is familiarity, and positive interactions with various stimuli prior to 5- 6 months old. Most older dogs can be rehabilitated through a lengthier process, and we’ll teach you how to work with the temperament of your adult dog.
DOG AGGRESSION
Aggression in dogs can come in many forms, for example, resource guarding, fear aggression, dog aggression, human aggression, territorial aggression, even play aggression etc. These behaviors left unchecked tend to get worse. Do you find yourself putting your dog away when company comes over, or avoiding people and other dogs on walks? Maybe at this point you’ve just stopped walking your dog altogether? We can help, we will assess what is going on and help you turn it around. Your dog may be a good candidate for boarding and training.
CHEWING
Your puppy will chew and needs to chew. It is really up to us to guide our puppy or dog to chew the appropriate things that he or she has been given for chewing. Zephyr will show you how to best guide appropriate chewing and prevent unwanted chewing.
DIGGING
Most dogs enjoy a good dig, some people cater to this natural desire by creating a place that’s ok for digging. More often than not dogs digging in our manicured or polished lawns is not an acceptable behavior. If your puppy or dog is digging up your prize winning roses give us a call we can help.
EXCESSIVE BARKING
It’s totally normal for your dog to bark a little to announce their own presence or the arrival of someone on your property, many get dogs for just that reason. Some people experience excessive barking on walks, some start up when you leave the house, some do it to demand attention, it’s out of fear in some cases and territorial in others. You don’t have to live with out-of-control barking, we can help!
JUMPING
Unwanted Jumping is one of the most common dog behaviors that we encounter. So much of the time, jumping behaviors are mistakenly or unknowingly encouraged and rewarded, sometimes they’re self-rewarding if they jump on a counter or table with food on it. If your dog is jumping on you, company, strangers or furniture we can help!
LEASH PULLING / LOOSE LEASH WALKING
In most cases Zephyr will be able to teach you how to walk your dog properly in just one session! A life changing session! The importance of hierarchy on the walk is the foundation and sets the tone for your relationship with your dog. A new understanding will help you transform a simple activity that can be otherwise stressful into an enjoyable bonding time for you and your dog. Even if your dog has been pulling you around for years, we can teach old dogs new tricks.
COPROPHAGIA / POOP EATING
There can be many reasons a puppy or dog will eat there own feces. Greater Boston Dog will help you problem solve and get the issue under control.
TRASH CAN RAIDING
Smart dogs will quickly figure out that raiding the garbage is a self rewarding behavior. One of the hardest types of behaviors to catch because most dogs only do this frustrating action when no one is around to stop it. If your dog is taking advantage of you when no one is looking, call Greater Boston Dog for peace of mind.
CUSTOM PROGRAMS
This program was designed for your busy life. Busy professionals, celebrities, and professional athletes find it makes the most sense to take advantage of our custom programs. Greater Boston Dog will guide you through the process, from helping you select the right breed and temperament for your family, finding the breeder, initial procurement of the pup for boarding and training and hand delivery with on location owner training. Custom programs are just that, we’ll be as involved as you need us to be with the process. The commands for these programs usually go beyond the basics and are tailored specifically for your needs.
Zephyr and his team are awesome to work with. My parents had great success with Zephyr boarding and training their dogs and now my husband and I are working with Zephyr in private training sessions with our puppy. He’s knowledgeable and super helpful. Highly recommend!
Some of our best friends! Because We Really Care About Your Pets
Training Gallery
25+
Years Experience
15+
Team Members
5,000+
Dogs Boarded Per Year
Obedience, Kindness, Safety & Fun
Your Dog’s Home Away
From Home