Companion Canines

Companion Canines offers dog training and behavioral services through online puppy programs, in-person classes, in-person private lessons, and a board and train program.

Online Puppy Programs focus on training and socialization for young puppies to help them become confident, relaxed, and well-mannered adult dogs. These include the “Puppy Power Program” (3 private training sessions, 1-2-1 strategy call, video vault) and the “VIP Puppy Power Private Program” (8 private training sessions, trainer in your pocket, additional resources, detailed training lesson plan, plus Puppy Power Program features).

In-Person Private Training Lessons can take place at a location of your choice, such as your home or neighborhood, to address specific behavior issues in real-time. These are often suited for individuals with busy schedules or specific behavioral needs. A “Private 3 Lesson Package” is also available, conducted at the trainer’s house in Kalkaska, focusing on two behaviors per visit, socialization with other dogs, pack walks in the woods, and road work.

The “21 Day Challenge” is an intensive program where training begins at the trainer’s location, with the dog staying for the first three days, followed by owner meetings and at-home practice for the subsequent weeks.

The “Board and Train” program involves the dog staying with the trainer round-the-clock for a minimum of two weeks. During this time, dogs work on basic obedience and other discussed behaviors, socialization skills through group play, and daily pack walks. Owners receive regular updates with videos and pictures of their dog’s progress.

Companion Canines also offers various training styles including Puppy Assessment (matching dogs to lifestyles, understanding puppy vs. adult differences, choosing reputable sources), Rescue Dog Rehabilitation (establishing rules and molding rescued dogs into family members), Obedience (from basic puppy behaviors like sit and stay to advanced commands, using techniques like positive reinforcement, treat training, clicker, gentle leaders, and e-collars), Socializing (learning dog body language, off-leash classes, and diffusing situations), and Specialist Training (for therapy, service, and assistance dogs). Future pack walks are included with private lessons, the 21 Day Challenge, and Board and Train programs.

Pricing Summary

Pricing for private lessons varies based on the number of behaviors addressed and modified. Typically, a private lesson is 1.5 hours, allowing time to address 3 behaviors, and these lessons are scheduled in packages of four. Behavior modification/reactivity lessons are also available in packages of four. For the board and train program, additional time beyond the minimum two weeks is offered at a discounted price.

Companion Canines is a dog training business dedicated to helping develop happy, well-balanced, and reliable canines. The trainer, Janet, has dedicated her adult life to caring for dogs, continuously learning and training to better meet the needs of each individual dog’s personality. She believes that every situation requires skill, knowledge, and most importantly, compassion, aiming to share her passion for animals to foster a completely understood and thoroughly enjoyed owner-dog relationship.

All training provided by Companion Canines is built around positive reinforcement and non-physical punishment. The goal is to help animals become well-balanced family members through mental and physical activity, preventing loneliness or destructive behavior when left alone, and improving behavior during human and social interactions.

In addition to training, Janet also offers professional dog grooming and pet boarding services. A free “New Puppy Handbook” is available for download to guide new puppy owners.

Accomplishments

Janet DiPirro has over 30 years of experience as a professional dog groomer, over 25 years as a Licensed Veterinary Technician, and over 15 years as a Certified Dog Trainer. She is a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) and a Certified AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. She was also interviewed by Ron Jolly on WTCM in November 2018.

How to Get Started!

Clients can get started by filling out a contact form on the website to schedule a consultation or private training, or by calling the provided cell number. Appointments can also be requested via a dedicated online portal. Online puppy programs have a direct sign-up link.