Beyond Sit And Stay Professional Dog Training

Group classes are 5 weeks long, one hour per week, covering basic obedience, socialization, and distraction control. Off-leash training is a 4-week follow-up program requiring prior completion of basic obedience. Private lessons are offered in 4- or 6-session packages, held weekly at the training facility. In-home training includes 4 weekly one-hour sessions at the client’s residence. All programs prepare dogs for AKC Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog certifications. Training focuses on commands like sit, down, come, stay, heel, leave it, and manners.

Pricing Summary

Group obedience classes are $165 for 5 weekly 1-hour sessions. Off-leash group classes are $150 for 4 weeks. Private lessons are $245 for 4 sessions (basic obedience) or $450 for 6 sessions (basic + off-leash). In-home training is priced based on location and requires a quote. All programs require advance registration and deposit.

Policies

Registration and deposit are required to hold a spot in group classes. Classes fill on a first-paid basis. No children under 12 are allowed in training areas. Dogs must be up to date on vaccinations. Off-leash training requires completion of basic obedience first. No refunds mentioned; no cancellation or rescheduling policy explicitly stated.

Beyond Sit And Stay Professional Dog Training, owned by Certified Master Trainer Paula Shupe, offers humane, motivational, and balanced dog training services in Southwest Virginia. Paula has over 25 years of experience training dogs for pet owners, competition enthusiasts, and law enforcement agencies. The business focuses on teaching owners how to communicate effectively with their dogs, emphasizing understanding dog behavior, body language, and motivation rather than just teaching commands. Services include group classes, private lessons, in-home training, and off-leash training, all designed to build reliable control on or off leash, even in distracting environments. They also offer AKC testing for titles like Canine Good Citizen, Therapy Dog, and S.T.A.R. Puppy, and specialize in trick dog training. Training is conducted using a fun, common-sense approach that is suitable for puppies and adult dogs alike.

Their programs are not designed for dogs with severe behavioral issues like aggression, resource guarding, or separation anxiety. All dogs must be up to date on vaccinations and at least 12 weeks old for most programs. Off-leash training requires completion of basic obedience first. Training is delivered with a strong emphasis on owner education, ensuring long-term success beyond the classroom.

Paula is an AKC Evaluator and has helped numerous dogs earn therapy dog certifications and compete in obedience and rally events. Clients consistently praise her patience, individualized attention, and ongoing support after classes end.

Accomplishments

Paula Shupe is a Certified Master Trainer with over 25 years of experience. She is an AKC Evaluator authorized to administer CGC, S.T.A.R. Puppy, Therapy Dog, and Community Canine tests. She has trained and titled dogs in multiple dog sports and has helped numerous clients’ dogs become certified therapy dogs.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must contact via email or phone to inquire about class schedules and availability. Registration requires completing a form and submitting a deposit to secure a spot. Group classes have set start dates; private and in-home training require scheduling directly with Paula.