Alpha Pet Dog Training

Training programs include one-time consultations, intensive All-Day Train & Play sessions (9am–5pm in-home), and temperament evaluations. All programs are customized based on the dog’s temperament, learning style, and specific behavioral challenges. Training involves the entire household and focuses on behavior modification through positive reinforcement, counter-conditioning, and desensitization. No board-and-train programs are offered; all training occurs in the dog’s home environment.

Pricing Summary

Private in-home appointments: $150/hour (local), $175/hour (North County). All-Day Train & Play: $595 (9am–5pm). Temperament evaluation: $225 (South SLO County), $250 (North County/Santa Maria). Additional dogs: $125. In-home pet sitting: $35+/visit; $95 with training lesson. Dog transport: $1.95–$2.25/mile ($40 minimum).

Alpha Pet Dog Training, established in 2004 and now based on California’s Central Coast, offers force-free, positive reinforcement dog training for dogs of all ages, breeds, and behavioral needs. Their internationally trained Behavior Specialist has over 20 years of experience working with thousands of dogs, specializing in complex issues like separation anxiety, aggression, resource guarding, leash reactivity, and puppy training. Training is conducted in-home to ensure lasting results by involving the entire family, and they avoid all punitive tools like shock collars, chokers, or pinch collars. They also offer intensive All-Day Train & Play programs, temperament evaluations, and limited in-home pet sitting and dog transport services. Their methods are endorsed by veterinary behaviorists and humane societies, grounded in ethology and scientifically proven techniques like counter-conditioning and desensitization.

They serve San Luis Obispo County including Pismo Beach, Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, Nipomo, Paso Robles, and parts of Santa Barbara County, with out-of-area appointments available upon inquiry. Alpha Pet Dog Training was once described as a “Hollywood A-Lister’s best kept secret” for working with celebrity clients in their homes and on their private ranch in the Los Angeles mountains.

Accomplishments

Head trainer is internationally trained in canine behavior, holds hundreds of hours of accredited continuing education credits in R+ training and ethology, and has worked with thousands of dogs since 2004. Trained under a Los Angeles apprenticeship and maintains professional memberships with ABS, IAABC, and APDT. Formerly worked with TV and film personalities in Los Angeles.

How to Get Started!

Call or email to discuss your dog’s specific challenges. An initial consultation or temperament evaluation is required to assess needs and develop a customized training plan.