Day One Dog Training

Day One Dog Training offers a 7-week group puppy class with weekly 1-hour sessions covering foundational obedience commands (Sit, Down, Come, Stay, Heel), leash manners, bite inhibition, potty training, crate use, grooming, car safety, and fun tricks. Each class includes hands-on coaching, Q&A, and socialization time. Private in-home sessions are customized to address specific behavioral issues such as excessive barking, chewing, separation anxiety, or jumping, with individualized strategies developed for each dog and owner. Training emphasizes positive reinforcement using clickers and treats, and integrates lessons into everyday routines.

Pricing Summary

Group puppy classes cost $120 for a 7-week program (1 hour per week), averaging $15/hour. Private in-home sessions are available upon request with rates provided upon contact. The book “Puppy Kisses” is sold for $16 per copy (Media Mail shipping included), with Priority Mail available for an additional fee.

Day One Dog Training is a dog training business founded by Howard Weinstein in 1998, dedicated to helping dog owners build strong, joyful relationships with their dogs using humane, positive reinforcement techniques. They offer both group puppy classes and private in-home training sessions tailored to dogs of all ages, from puppies as young as 8 weeks to adult dogs with behavioral issues. Their group classes, held in a climate-controlled facility at VCA-Columbia Animal Hospital in Columbia, MD, are 7-week programs covering basic commands, leash manners, potty training, socialization, and practical life skills like car safety and grooming. Private sessions provide personalized coaching for specific challenges such as barking, chewing, separation anxiety, and jumping. Howard’s approach emphasizes making training fun and integrating it into daily life, with tools like clickers and food rewards. He is also the co-author of the award-winning book “Puppy Kisses are Good for the Soul,” which shares real-life training stories and practical advice. The business provides free downloadable resources on topics like clicker training, potty training, and dental care to support dog owners.

Their training philosophy centers on positive reinforcement, avoiding punishment, and empowering owners to become confident, effective teachers. They focus on early intervention for puppies and offer solutions for complex behavioral issues in adult dogs, helping families create well-mannered, happy companions. The business is rooted in decades of hands-on experience and a deep commitment to ethical, science-based training methods.

Accomplishments

Howard Weinstein, the founder, has trained over a thousand dogs since 1998 and is the co-author of the best-selling book “Puppy Kisses are Good for the Soul,” which received praise from breeders, veterinarians, and dog owners. He has written 15 books, contributed articles to major publications including the New York Times and Baltimore Sun, and won awards for radio public-service campaigns. His training philosophy is grounded in 15 years of living with and learning from his Welsh Corgi, Mail Order Annie.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can call (410) 796-5349 to inquire about group class schedules or private session availability. For group classes, registration is required in advance due to limited spots (max 10 dogs). Private sessions are scheduled by phone based on availability. Free downloadable resources are available on the website to help owners begin training immediately.