Noel Hoffmann Dog Training

Noel Hoffmann Dog Training focuses on creating an optimal learning environment for both dogs and owners, emphasizing daily practice. All new clients begin with the “Dog Trainer One” foundation series, which consists of one session per week for four weeks. Clients can then continue with “Dog Trainer Two and Beyond” for more advanced behaviors and to strengthen existing skills, also in four-week packages.

For high-drive dogs or those requiring rapid skill acquisition, the “Intensive Training” program offers four sessions a week for four weeks. Puppy-specific programs include “Puppy Prep” for pre-puppy consultations and “Puppy Learns” for early training using clicker training and learning games.

For serious behavioral problems like aggression, fear-based behaviors, or on-leash reactivity, a “Behavioral Consultation” is recommended first to assess the issue and develop a plan. This can be followed by a “Behavioral Consultation and Training Package” which includes multiple training sessions and follow-up phone consults, or combined with the Intensive Training model for more severe cases. The trainer tailors sessions to individual client needs and offers remote options via Zoom.

Pricing Summary

A free, half-hour “Quick Start Consult” is offered. The “Dog Trainer One” foundation series costs $420.00 for 4 weekly sessions. “Dog Trainer Two and Beyond” also costs $420.00 for 4 weekly sessions. “Intensive Training” is priced at $1,800.00 for 16 sessions (4 sessions/week for 4 weeks).

“Puppy Prep” consultations are $120.00, and “Puppy Learns” private sessions are $420.00 for 4 weekly sessions. A “Behavioral Consultation” is $275.00 for one session. “Behavioral Consultation and Training Package” options include $775.00 for 1 consultation + 5 training sessions + 2 follow-up phone consults, or $2,125.00 for 1 consultation + 16 training sessions + 2 follow-up phone consults (3-4 sessions per week). Individual additional training sessions can be purchased for $120.00 each, or $420.00 for four sessions.

Policies

The business excludes working livestock guarding dogs, wolf-hybrids, protection-trained dogs, and dogs with a Level 4 bite history and above for legal and liability reasons. It is stated that changing dog behavior takes time, work, and commitment from the owner, and there are no shortcuts. Clients are asked to keep an open mind, work hard, and always put their dog first.

Noel Hoffmann Dog Training and Behavioral Consulting offers science-based training focused on changing emotions to change behavior. The trainer, Noel Hoffmann, is a “cross-over” trainer who transitioned from correction-based methods in the 80s to modern positive reinforcement. Her approach combines relationship building and science, adhering to the Humane Hierarchy and LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) principles.

She emphasizes building a co-operative system of communication based on respect, trust, and joy, without the use of force or threats. The business provides training for significant behavioral problems, including aggression and fear-based behaviors, and aims to empower owners with skills for lifelong management.

Noel trains her own dogs daily and encourages clients to practice consistently. She has a fully matted training facility that is warm in winter and cool in summer. She also offers remote consultations via Zoom for clients outside her immediate area.

Accomplishments

Noel Hoffmann holds multiple certifications including CPDT-KA (Certified Pet Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed), KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy, Certified Training Partner), IAABC-CDBC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants – Certified Dog Behavior Consultant), and Fear Free Certified. These certifications reflect a commitment to positive reinforcement and LIMA principles.

Her IAABC-CDBC certification required a deep history of training, three successful case studies, and a 250-page application, indicating a high level of competency in diagnosing and resolving problem behaviors. She has also completed numerous advanced courses and conferences, including the IAABC Principles and Practices Course, Aggression in Dogs Master Course and Conferences (2021, 2022, 2023), The Forensics of Dog Aggression, and IAABC Ethology.

Noel is a “cross-over” trainer, having transitioned from correction-based methods in the 1980s to modern, science-based positive reinforcement.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can start with a free, half-hour “Quick Start Consult” at the facility to meet Noel and see the training space, with or without their dog. For those with significant behavioral problems, a “Behavioral Consultation” is recommended first to assess the issues and develop a plan. Email is the preferred method of contact for a faster response, and clients are encouraged to provide a specific time for a call to prevent phone tag. A phone conversation is required before the first in-person meeting.