DogFather Dog Institute

DFDI offers two main training programs: the 6 Lesson Package and Board & Train. The 6 Lesson Package consists of private one-on-one sessions held once a week for an hour to an hour and a half, over a duration of six weeks. This program is personalized to the specific needs of both the dog and owner, covering topics such as Puppy Obedience Level 1 & 2, Adult Dog Obedience Level 1 & 2, basic commands like Sit, Down, Stand, Wait & Stay, Recall, On Leash Heel, Intro to Loose Leash Walking, and Place or Mark Training.

The Board & Train program requires a minimum stay of two weeks, with the exact duration and cost determined by the dog’s age and specific training needs. This program covers basic commands including Sit, Down, Stand, Wait & Stay, Come when called, On Leash Heel & Intro to Loose Leash Walking, Place or Mark, and Touch. Every Board & Train program also includes private lessons, with the number of lessons dependent on the length of the dog’s stay.

DFDI’s training methods primarily utilize positive reinforcement and an adaptive approach, adjusting to each dog’s individual learning style. They emphasize open communication with owners regarding training approaches and, while trained in e-collar use, typically do not recommend it.

Pricing Summary

General Price for a 6-week course is $450. The 6 Lesson Package is priced at $750. For the Board & Train program, the cost is determined by the dog’s age and specific training needs; contact them for a free phone consultation to get a quote.

Policies

DFDI will never try any training method without first discussing it with the owner to ensure their comfort.

DogFather Dog Institute (DFDI) is a dog training business founded by Alex, also known as The Dog Father, who is a Canine Behavior Educator. Julia serves as the brand manager and local events coordinator. They are a licensed business since 2013, with Alex having over a decade of hands-on experience in helping people understand, train, and build stronger bonds with their dogs.

DFDI offers personalized one-on-one training through 6-week courses and Board & Train programs. Their training covers Puppy Obedience Level 1 & 2, Adult Dog Obedience Level 1 & 2, and they are experienced in working with rescue dogs and introducing new dogs to new homes. Their training style is adaptive, primarily rooted in positive reinforcement, and tailored to each dog’s unique needs and temperament, while also considering the owner’s lifestyle.

While they are trained in the appropriate use of e-collars, they generally do not recommend them. Alex is also known for his significant social media presence, having built a community of over half a million dog lovers and producing viral content. Their own dogs, Ezekiel and Penelope, are actively involved in the Board & Train programs as example dogs and companions. DFDI also sells branded products and recommends dog food brands.

Accomplishments

Alex, known as The Dog Father, is the founder of DogFather Dog Institute and a Canine Behavior Educator. He has over a decade of hands-on experience in dog training. DFDI has been a licensed business since 2013.

Alex has built a significant online presence, fostering a community of over half a million dog lovers across his social media platforms. One of his viral videos has garnered over 100 million views. In 2025, he plans to embark on “The Psychology of Dogs tour” to provide in-depth canine behavior education across the U.S.

How to Get Started!

For the 6 Lesson Package, the process begins with determining your needs through a phone or in-person discussion about you, your dog, and your training goals. The first lesson then takes place in your dog’s comfortable environment.

For the Board & Train program, the first step is a phone consultation to answer questions and gather details for a quote. This is followed by a Meet & Greet to meet your dog and design a tailored training program.