Golden Paws Dog Training

Golden Paws offers structured 6-week group classes including Basic Obedience (teaching sit, stay, recall, loose leash walking, and manners) and Intermediate Obedience (for dogs with prior training). They also offer drop-in socialization sessions called Pups of Pittsboro (PoP) on Sundays. Private lessons are available for behavior modification including aggression, fears, and phobias. Nosework and Agility for Fun are offered as specialized skill-building programs. All programs use positive reinforcement and require consistent home practice.

Pricing Summary

Group classes cost $200 for 6-week sessions (Basic Obedience, Nosework). Private drop-in sessions (PoP) are $25 per session or available in packages: 3 sessions for $70, 6 sessions for $135, or 9 sessions for $200. Puppy punch card is $100. An obedience deposit of $100 is required to reserve a spot in group classes. Classes require a minimum of 2 dogs to run.

Policies

Classes require a minimum of 2 dogs to proceed. A $100 deposit is required to reserve a spot in obedience classes. No specific cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated on the website.

Golden Paws Dog Training & Fitness is a force-free dog training business based in Pittsboro, NC, that specializes in canine behavior, socialization, and fitness. They focus on building trust-based relationships between dogs and their owners using positive reinforcement techniques, avoiding any force or punishment. Their approach is personalized, observing both the dog and the owner to tailor training to individual needs. They offer group classes, private lessons, and drop-in socialization sessions called “Pups of Pittsboro” (PoP), along with specialized programs like Basic and Intermediate Obedience, Nosework, Agility for Fun, and behavior modification for aggression, fears, and phobias. Their trainers have extensive experience with rescue dogs, service dogs, and dogs with special needs, and they emphasize identifying root causes of behavior issues rather than just managing symptoms.

The business serves dog owners seeking humane, science-based training for puppies, adolescents, adults, and seniors, with programs designed for family dogs, behavior modification, and socialization. Trainers are certified in canine behavior and training, and they provide ongoing support through structured class sessions and flexible drop-in options.

In addition to training, they offer nutrition seminars and foster support, and their facility-based classes are held in a controlled environment conducive to learning. They do not offer boarding, grooming, walking, or daycare services.

Their mission is to help owners understand their dogs and create enriched, positive home lives through fun, confidence-building training.

Trainers include Michelle Turner (CCTBS, CACTP, CAATP, CCSC), Rachel Smith (Certified Assistance Dog Trainer), and Jennifer Pryke (CCTBS), each with over a decade of hands-on experience working with diverse dogs and families.

Accomplishments

Michelle Turner has over a decade of experience in the U.S. Air Force and has rescued four dogs since 2009; she holds certifications as CCTBS, CACTP, CAATP, and CCSC. Rachel Smith is a Certified Assistance Dog Trainer with experience training service dogs for veterans through Paws4People. Jennifer Pryke has over 20 years of experience fostering and training shelter dogs and is certified as a Canine Training & Behavior Specialist by the Animal Behavior Institute.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can review class schedules and sign up online when registration opens (announced on the website). For private lessons, contact trainers directly via email or phone. Drop-in sessions (PoP) can be purchased individually or in packages through the online store.