Dog and Puppy Training

Positive reinforcement dog training by credentialed professionals

Columbus Humane has been a provider of dog training in Central Ohio for 25 years. Buddy Basics dog training classes are lead by CPDT-KA animal behavior team members from Columbus Humane.

We believe in fostering a strong bond between you and your dog through positive, reward-based methods that encourage good behavior and strengthen communication. Our approach emphasizes understanding your dog's individual needs and personality while teaching them desired behaviors using techniques that are gentle, effective, and enjoyable for both you and your best friend.

 

ADULT DOG Group Training CLASSES

With positive reinforcement training, you'll learn how to teach your dog new skills, address behavioral challenges, and create a bond based on mutual understanding and respect. Join us as we embark on a journey to unleash your dog's full potential while promoting a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted lifestyle. Adult dog training classes are for all dogs older than six months.

PUPPY Group Training CLASSES

With our guidance, you'll learn how to teach essential commands, address common puppy behaviors, and set your puppy up for a lifetime of success. Join us on this rewarding journey as we empower you to raise a happy, confident, and well-behaved companion. Puppy classes are for all dogs ages 8-14 weeks. If your dog is older than 14 weeks (3.5 months), please sign up for the adult dog classes.

 

ADULT DOG Group CLASS

BASIC MANNERS

  • Name recognition

  • Sit

  • Down

  • Hand targeting

  • Eye contact

  • Loose leash walking

  • Place

  • Recall (come when called)

  • Leave it

ENRICHMENT

  • Kong

  • Food dispensing toys

  • Lick mats

  • Boxes/paper bags

PUPPY group
CLASS

BASIC MANNERS

  • Name recognition

  • Sit

  • Down

  • Eye contact

FUNDAMENTAL LIFE SKILLS

  • Appropriate puppy socialization

  • Appropriate dog-to-dog play

  • Crate training

  • Nail trimming

  • Jumping

  • Resource guarding prevention

  • Puppy biting and nipping

ENRICHMENT

  • Kong

  • Food dispensing toys

  • Lick mats

  • Boxes/paper bags


Buddy Basics

DOG and Puppy TRAINING

Adult dog group classes are held on Saturday mornings from 9:30AM – 10:30AM for a six-week duration. Select the session track that best aligns with your schedule.

Puppy group classes are held on Thursday evenings from 6:00PM – 7:00PM for a four-week duration. Select the individual dates that best align with your schedule.

About the Dog Trainers

Kaitlin Cheek, CPDT-KA

Kaitlin serves as the Behavior Manager at Columbus Humane, bringing over eight years of experience in animal welfare. She’s a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Fear Free Certified Dog Trainer, and has her Low Stress Handling Certification. She is dedicated to fostering the human-animal bond and is passionate about educating our community on effective communication with their pets. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her rescue pitty mix, Mona, who is seven years old. You can catch them grabbing a coffee in the Short North on the weekends!

Katie Althouse, CPDT-KA

Katie is an Adoption Counselor at Columbus Humane with a focus on dog behavior. Katie's passion for dogs dates back to her childhood and evolved during her college years, where she volunteered as a puppy raiser for future guide dogs. Serving in multiple roles focused on behavior at Columbus Humane, she has since remained dedicated to her role. She’s a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Fear Free Certified Dog Trainer, and has her Low Stress Handling Certification. While she enjoys working with all shelter dogs, her expertise shines with adolescent pups. Outside of her professional endeavors, Katie finds solace in rock climbing and hiking adventures with her two canine companions, Derby and Scooter.

Dominique Pryor

Dominique serves as the Behavior Specialist at Columbus Humane, bringing over three years of experience to her role. She holds certifications in Fear Free and Low Stress Handling, and is currently pursuing certification as a Professional Dog Trainer. Passionate about animal behavior, Dominique enjoys educating others on her expertise. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, including her furry companion, and unwinding with movies at home in her spare time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Puppy group training FAQs

Adult Dog group training FAQs


Buddy Basics
TRAINING LOCATION

COLUMBUS HUMANE

3015 Scioto Darby Executive Ct, Hilliard, OH 43026
Classes conducted on the second floor in the Ross Learning Center.

QUESTIONS?

Please call 614-777-7387 or email training@columbushumane.org.

 
 

Buddy Basics

Dog and Puppy Training

Adult dog group classes are held on Saturday mornings from 9:30AM – 10:30AM for a six-week duration. Select the session track that best aligns with your schedule.

Puppy group classes are held on Thursday evenings from 6:00PM – 7:00PM for a four-week duration. Select the individual dates that best align with your schedule.


Let’s Be Friends

There’s one sure way to stay connected to our work. Sign up today.

 
 
 

ADOPTION CENTER (NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED)
Monday - Friday 2pm - 7pm
Saturday - Sunday 12pm - 5pm

ANIMAL SUPPORT CENTER
Appointments are available from 11am-6pm M-F and 9am-4pm Sat-Sun. Same day appointments may be available. The entrance to the Animal Support Center is located at the side of the building. Call (614) 777 - 7387 for an appointment.

GENERAL CONTACT

Phone (614) 777 - 7387 (Our Call Center is open from 9am-5pm)
Fax (614) 777 - 8449
questions@columbushumane.org
3015 Scioto Darby Executive Ct, Hilliard, OH 43026