K-9 Academy Dog Training School

K-9 Academy offers structured programs including Basic Obedience, Advanced Obedience, Competitive Obedience, Problem Solving, Personal Protection, and Law Enforcement K-9 training. Each program is customized to the dog’s temperament and learning style. Training emphasizes cognitive development, attention maintenance, and marker-based learning without food rewards. Options include private one-on-one sessions, small group classes, and intensive board-and-train programs where dogs live with the trainer for daily, immersive instruction.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not publicly listed. Programs are tailored to individual needs, with Basic Obedience reportedly completable in as little as two weeks. Clients are encouraged to contact the business directly to discuss course options and costs.

Policies

No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policies are stated on the website. Clients are directed to contact the business directly for scheduling inquiries.

K-9 Academy Dog Training School, led by Tony Mercuri, offers personalized dog training services in Northeast Pennsylvania since 1999. Tony focuses on teaching dogs to think and solve problems rather than relying on conditioned responses, using methods inspired by service dog standards. He emphasizes building a dog’s attention and obedience without food bribes, believing every dog needs a purpose to prevent behavioral issues. Training is tailored to each dog’s personality—whether dominant, fearful, or submissive—and includes basic to advanced obedience, problem-solving, personal protection, and law enforcement-level skills. The business provides private lessons, group classes, and board-and-train programs, all designed to strengthen the bond between dog and owner through clear communication and cognitive engagement.

Tony’s approach avoids physical force and punishment, using markers and praise instead. He trains dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments, helping with issues like separation anxiety, reactivity, and destructiveness. Clients are taught how to continue training at home, ensuring long-term success. K-9 Academy’s philosophy centers on treating every dog as if it could be a service dog, promoting focus, discipline, and mutual respect.

The business also offers specialized training for police K-9 units, including suspect apprehension, drug detection, and explosive search, reflecting Tony’s background as a former police dog decoy. This expertise translates into highly effective training for pet dogs seeking advanced obedience or behavior correction.

Accomplishments

Tony Mercuri is a back-to-back recipient of the “Best of the Abingtons” dog training accolade. He has over 25 years of experience, beginning as a police dog decoy in the Scranton area in 1999. His training methods are field-tested and recognized by law enforcement professionals and pet owners alike.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can enroll by filling out an enrollment form on the website or by contacting K-9 Academy via phone or email to discuss the best training program for their dog. An initial consultation is not advertised as free, but direct contact is encouraged to assess needs and tailor a plan.