Animal Learning Systems

Animal Learning Systems offers two primary off-leash programs: the Pinnacle Program for dogs 4 months and older (average start age 2.5 years), returning well-mannered dogs in 6–7 weeks; and the Capstone Program for puppies 8–12 weeks old, delivering fully trained companions at 5–6 months with minimal owner participation. Family training includes small group classes and private in-home sessions. Behavior therapy addresses aggression, anxiety, and sensory impairments. All programs include a planning session, structured daily training, socialization, and post-program family transfer sessions with ongoing support.

Pricing Summary

Pricing is not publicly listed; programs such as the Pinnacle and Capstone Off-Leash Training are intensive, multi-week facility-based programs with guaranteed results. Custom pricing is provided after an initial planning session. Boarding and grooming rates are available upon inquiry.

Policies

Group classes, in-home training, and house-call evaluations were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, with services shifted to video evaluations and facility-based programs. Staff and clients are required to practice social distancing and masking. No specific cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated, but ongoing support is provided after program completion.

Animal Learning Systems is a professional dog training and behavior therapy business based in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan, founded by animal behaviorist James F. Lessenberry with over 30 years of experience. They offer science-based training grounded in psychology, biology, and behavioral physiology, focusing on enhancing the human-dog bond through humane, practical, and affordable solutions. Their services include behavior therapy for aggression, anxiety, and geriatric issues; off-leash programs (Pinnacle and Capstone); family training courses in small groups or private in-home sessions; and boarding & grooming. They specialize in turnkey off-leash training where dogs are trained for 6–7 weeks at their facility and then reintegrated with families, ensuring long-term success. Their holistic approach integrates medical, environmental, and behavioral factors, and they work with licensed professionals to train ADA-compliant service dogs.

They serve clients across 12 U.S. states and Canada, with training locations in Grosse Pointe Farms, Rochester, and Bloomfield Hills. Their staff are degreed professionals, not franchise operators or hobbyists, and they emphasize trust, kindness, and ongoing support after training completion.

Additional services include pet boarding, grooming, and educational events. They do not offer dog walking, daycare, or pet sitting as standalone services, but their boarding facility supports structured training and care.

Accomplishments

Founded by James F. Lessenberry, an animal behaviorist with over 30 years of experience applying biological and psychological sciences to companion animal behavior. Staff are degreed professionals with expertise in behavioral physiology, genetics, and pharmacology. They have trained dogs for families nationwide and ADA-compliant service dogs. Featured in local media and referenced by veterinarians.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients begin with an initial planning session to meet the family, assess the dog’s needs, and set training goals. This session determines eligibility for programs such as Off-Leash Training or Behavior Therapy. Clients can initiate this process by contacting the business via phone, email, or the “Let’s Chat” form on the website.