Designing Dogs
Service Overview
Types of Dog Training
- Service Dog
- Behavior Modification
- Family Dog
Specialty Focus Areas
- Puppy Training
- Basic Obedience
- Leash Pulling
- Recall
- Separation Anxiety
- Reactivity / Aggression
- behavior
Training Formats Offered
- Private Lessons
- Group Classes
- In-Home
- Private Facility
Program Formats
- Ongoing Weekly
- Sessions Package
- One-Time Consultation
Types of Dogs
- Working
- Herding
Age of Dogs Trained
- Puppy (<1 year)
- Adolescent (1-2 years)
- Adult (2-8 years)
Dog Training Methodology
Methods:
- ✓ Positive Reinforcement Only
Equipment:
- ✓ Clickers
- ✓ Food Rewards
- ✓ Harnesses
- ✓ Flat Collars
Designing Dogs offers ongoing training programs with private and group sessions tailored to individual needs. Training begins with an evaluation, followed by personalized instruction that includes video demonstrations and hands-on coaching for owners. Programs focus on building foundational obedience, addressing behavior issues, and preparing dogs for service roles. Clients receive continuous support and are encouraged to maintain training over time.
Testimonials
Alan Finn has given me the ability to go out and enjoy life. His understanding of dogs and his very gentle way of teaching them is amazing. After an accident that put me in a wheelchair I had no reason to go out. Alan has trained Medusa, a German Shepherd as my service dog. Alan has taught Medusa and I things I never thought were possible for a dog to do. Without her and our training I could not function as I do. She goes everywhere with me and has even been on several flights. People always say they did not know there was a dog on the plane. Yes, she has even been to Disney! My vet recommended him which says a lot. Medusa is the 3rd dog I have trained with Alan. He is always just a phone call away when I have a question and he keeps our private lessons and group class a fun and educational experience. If Alan teaches you & your dog he or she will be the best companion you ever had. Alan has given me the confidence along with Medusa to enjoy life once again.
– Alan Finn
Alan has helped me bring out more in my dogs than I could have even thought of on my own. He has taught me how to teach my dogs, not just train them to do something. My German Shepherds are living their best life with the help, guidance and teaching of Alan Finn.
– N/A
I was referred to Alan by 2-3 strangers in a pet store as I shopped for supplies for the German Shepherd puppy I was getting in two weeks. They all agreed he was the best. I made the call and 3 years later I continue to see him on a regular basis to continue my dogs training. My goal for training was to be able to take my dog anywhere and for her to be well behaved. I accomplished that and more with Alan’s help and guidance. When I am complimented on my girls behavior by a stranger I tell them I owe it all to Alan. I highly recommend him to anyone who loves their dog and wants to help him/her live their best life.
– N/A
About the Trainer
Designing Dogs is a dog training business led by Alan Finn, specializing in personalized dog training that builds strong bonds between dogs and their owners. Alan provides private and group training sessions focused on obedience, behavior modification, and service dog training, with a gentle, educational approach that empowers owners to understand and teach their dogs. He has successfully trained German Shepherds as service dogs for clients with disabilities, enabling them to regain independence and enjoy public life—including air travel and visits to places like Disney. Alan is known for his honesty during evaluations, use of video demonstrations to show achievable goals, and ongoing support via phone. Clients report lasting improvements in their dogs’ behavior and deeper human-dog connections. He has trained multiple dogs for the same clients over years, indicating long-term client relationships and consistent results.
Alan personally selects puppies for clients and trains entire families, including children, to become effective handlers. His training emphasizes teaching owners how to communicate with their dogs, not just enforcing commands. His clients consistently praise his patience, expertise, and dedication, with many referring others based on their own positive experiences.
Accomplishments
Alan Finn has trained multiple service dogs that successfully accompany clients on air travel and public outings, including Disney. He has earned the trust of veterinarians and strangers alike, who refer clients to him. Clients report that his training has transformed their dogs into the best companions they have ever had.
How to Get Started!
Prospective clients begin with an evaluation, during which Alan provides honest feedback and shows video examples of what can be accomplished. He personally selects puppies for some clients and offers ongoing guidance from the start. Clients are encouraged to reach out with questions at any time.

Contact Information
Availability
- Weekdays
- Weekends
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 9am-5:30pm
Wednesday: 9am-5:30pm
Thursday: 9am-5:30pm
Friday: 9am-5:30pm
Saturday: 9am-5:30pm
Sunday: Closed
Languages
- English
Misc Features
- wheelchair accessible parking
Other Services Offered
- Pet trainer
Location
516 Sibley Ave, Old Forge, PA 18518Listing Tools for Trainers
For Designing Dogs Only
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