applaud the dog

Applaud the dog offers both private training and group classes. Private sessions are tailored to individual needs, initially taking place in the client’s home and potentially moving to “out & about” locations depending on the training goals.
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Group classes are held at 1795 Boston Post Rd., Guilford, CT, and are designed to be small in size to ensure dogs’ comfort and allow them to learn at their own pace. Session times are longer than traditional classes to accommodate comfortable entry/exit, skill learning, practice games, and calming routines.
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Specific group classes include “Keep Calm & Carry On with Confidence” for reactive and fearful dogs, focusing on changing explosive or fearful reactions, decoding body language, practicing calmness, and building confidence. Another class, “Focus Games for Distractible Dogs,” helps dogs learn to focus around distractions and channel their energy, but this class is not for reactive dogs.

Pricing Summary

An initial private session/consultation is 2 hours for $250. Rates for subsequent private training sessions are $125 per hour. Customized programs are available. A 5-week group class costs $260. Fees for classes are non-refundable.

Policies

Fees for group classes are non-refundable.

Applaud the dog is a dog training business owned and operated by Kelly Leisten, a certified professional dog trainer in Madison, CT. The business specializes in working with fearful, reactive, and impulsive dogs, using reward-based, positive reinforcement training.
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They offer tailored private sessions and group classes designed to teach dogs and their families valuable skills, helping dogs feel comfortable and safe in their environment. A unique advantage is their ability to create a safe class experience for dogs who might not normally do well in a group setting, including providing enclosed spaces with curtains for comfort.

Accomplishments

Kelly Leisten is a certified professional dog trainer. She is a Certified Training Partner of the Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training & Behavior, having graduated with distinction, and is a Certified Control Unleashed Instructor (CCUI). She is a Supporting Member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), a Member of the Pet Professional Guild (the Association for Force-Free Pet Professionals), and a Member of the Animal Behavior Management Alliance (ABMA). She was a former Head Trainer teaching reactive dog classes at a major animal rescue organization in Manchester, CT, and is the Coordinator of Academic Affairs for the Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training & Behavior. She is recommended by veterinarians, veterinary behavior consultants, and trainers.

How to Get Started!

For private training, clients should contact kelly@applaudthedog.com to discuss their goals. For group classes, pre-registration and payment are required prior to the start of class. Clients can email kelly@applaudthedog.com if they have questions about which class to choose or if their dog is ready for a group setting.