K-10 Dog Training

Classes at K-10 Dog Training emphasize building a strong, positive relationship between owners and their dogs, utilizing science-backed methods and the Family Dog Mediation approach. This involves investigating the root cause of behaviors through the L.E.G.S. Model (Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self).

Private lessons offer one-on-one attention and flexible scheduling, typically in 5 to 6 lesson packages held at the K-10 location. Group classes are generally 5 to 6 weeks long, with a small class size of 2 to 4 students, and are not recommended for dogs with excessive reactivity or aggressive tendencies.

New clients must complete a “Let’s Meet” orientation class, a one-time session for owners to create an individual training plan and receive initial tools. Core programs include “Let’s Get Started – The Basics” for puppies and dogs of all ages, covering fundamental behaviors like sit, down, stay, recall, and loose leash walking. “Take it to The Next Level and Beyond” is for dogs who have completed The Basics, focusing on adding distance, distractions, and duration to known cues, and incorporating “Life Reward” and “Enrichment.” Specialized programs include “Canine Good Citizen Training” and “Canine Good Citizen Testing” for AKC certification, “Dog Centric Loose Leash Walking,” “Fun with Tricks,” “Really Reliable Recall,” and “Diamonds in the Ruff” for reactive dogs, which begins with a consultation to understand and resolve behavioral challenges.

Pricing Summary

All pricing is subject to sales tax. Most classes are purchased in packages of 5 to 6 lessons, with specific pricing available upon contact. The initial “Let’s Meet” orientation class is free if the client continues with subsequent training; otherwise, it costs $60.00 plus tax.

K-10 Dog Training, owned by Kathy Shumway Lawton, is a dog training business located in Mexico, NY. Kathy began her training journey in 2007 and is dedicated to helping dogs and their owners build stronger bonds through effective, compassionate training.

The business specializes in science-based, positive reinforcement methodologies, with Family Dog Mediation being a core component of all classes. This approach focuses on understanding the underlying reasons for a dog’s behavior using the L.E.G.S. Model (Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self) before attempting to modify it.

K-10 Dog Training offers both private one-on-one lessons and small group classes, catering to dogs of all ages and temperaments, including those with reactivity or aggression issues. Programs cover basic obedience, puppy training, loose leash walking, advanced skills, and preparation for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test. Kathy is committed to continuous learning in the ever-evolving dog training industry, with a focus on positive reinforcement and Family Dog Mediation.

Accomplishments

Kathy Shumway Lawton, the owner of K-10 Dog Training, began her part-time training business in 2007. She earned her certification with the Karen Pryor Academy in 2011 and her CCPT-KA certification in March 2017. Kathy further expanded her expertise by completing her Service Dog Coach certification in November 2019, an Aggressive Dog course in 2022, and the Family Dog Mediator course in 2024. Beyond dog training, Kathy holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and an MBA from SUNY Oswego, and she retired in March 2023 after 15 years as the Manager of Business Applications for Laboratory Alliance of CNY, LLC.

How to Get Started!

New students are required to attend a “Let’s Meet” orientation class before their dog’s training begins. This is a one-time session for dog owner(s) only, designed to collect information for an individualized training plan and provide initial tools for building a positive relationship with their dog. This orientation is free if the client continues with subsequent training classes; otherwise, a $60.00 plus tax fee applies. After completing orientation, members can schedule classes online. For private lessons, clients are advised to call to schedule, and for reactive dog consultations (“Diamonds in the Ruff”), a consultation can be scheduled.