Canine Country Academy – Dog Training and Behavior Modification

Group classes are 4–6 weeks long, one hour per week, covering Foundation Skills (Puppy, Manners) and Sniffy Skills (Barn Hunt, Mantrailing, NASDA, Scent Work). Private coaching includes 60–90 minute sessions in-home or at the facility for specific skills or behavior issues. Drop-off training includes Board & Train for puppies and adults, Day Training, and Field Trips. The Reactive Dog Program is a structured intensive program for fear and reactivity. All programs emphasize positive reinforcement and owner education. Behavior consultations are 90 minutes and include holistic assessment of the dog’s physical, emotional, and behavioral needs.

Pricing Summary

Pricing is not explicitly listed on the website; however, group classes are described as cost-effective and offered in 4–6 week sessions. Private coaching is 60–90 minutes, and drop-off training options include board and train and day training with custom quotes available after a behavior consultation. A 90-minute in-home or on-site behavior consultation is offered to customize a solution.

Canine Country Academy is a dog training and behavior modification business founded by Paula Nowak, dedicated to improving the relationship between dogs and their owners through positive reinforcement methods. They offer group classes, private coaching, and drop-off training options including board and train, day training, and field trips, all conducted at their facility in Lawrenceville, GA, or in-home within surrounding areas. Their approach emphasizes understanding canine communication, addressing root causes of behavior issues like fear and reactivity, and working holistically with the dog’s mind, body, and emotions. They also collaborate with veterinarians to rule out medical causes for behavior problems. Specialized programs include puppy training, manners, scent work (Barn Hunt, Mantrailing, NASDA), agility, and a reactive dog program. Their team includes certified trainers with expertise in trick training, behavior consulting, and dog sports, and they provide educational resources and events to support dog owners. They also offer apprenticeships for those interested in becoming dog trainers.

The business serves Gwinnett County and nearby cities including Auburn, Buford, Duluth, Lawrenceville, Snellville, and Sugar Hill. They prioritize kindness, compassion, and patience, and do not use punishment or aversive techniques. Their trainers are passionate about helping dogs of all temperaments build confidence and skills through fun, science-based methods.

Additional services include hosting Barn Hunt trials, Odor Recognition Tests, and offering a blog with educational content on dog behavior and training.

They also provide dog daycare and boarding services, though these are noted as previously offered and may have transitioned to focus on training-only.

Canine Country Academy is committed to helping dogs of all ages and types thrive through positive, individualized training.

They offer both in-person and on-site training, with no video-based services mentioned.

Their team includes CPDT-KA certified trainers and an AKC Evaluator, and they are affiliated with AKC and NACSW for scent work and agility programs.

Accomplishments

Paula Nowak, owner and head trainer, has over 12 years of experience in dog training and began training her own dogs at the academy. Amy Rose Baumann is a Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI) and AKC Evaluator for CGC and Tricks. Rachel Emery and Sara Beth Pinson are both CPDT-KA certified. Jeanne Anderson is a dedicated Scent Work instructor with competition experience in AKC and NACSW. The academy hosts official NACSW Odor Recognition Tests and Barn Hunt trials, and offers apprenticeships for aspiring trainers.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients are encouraged to contact the academy directly to schedule a 90-minute behavior consultation, which is used to assess the dog’s needs and customize a training plan. Group classes can be registered for online via their registration portal, and private coaching or drop-off services are arranged after an initial consultation. A free initial consultation is offered to discuss goals and determine the best program fit.