NWA School For Dogs

NWA School For Dogs offers comprehensive dog training programs using force-free, positive reinforcement methods. Their curriculum covers foundational obedience commands like sit, stay, come, and heel, progressing to advanced skills such as public manners, advanced leash skills, and enrichment-based classes.

Their services include:
* **Board & Train**: A two-week immersive program focusing on foundational skills like come, sit, stay, and leave it, with personalized training from Shanti Steddum. It costs $2,000 and includes a 60-90 minute cue transfer session at pickup, unlimited access to After School Coaching, and one in-home follow-up session within the NWA region. A structured follow-up schedule is required.
* **Day School**: Dogs spend the day learning essential skills (sit, down, come, stay, place, leash skills, building to higher level skills) and socializing. Daily training sessions are provided by certified trainers, and After School Coaching is included for owners.
* **Private Lessons**: Individualized assistance and customized training plans are offered, with trainers coming to the client within the NWA region. These are suitable for dogs not ready for a facility or owners with varied schedules.
* **Group Classes**: Instructors guide dogs and owners through all stages of life, from puppy training to advanced skills. Courses include Puppy Class (4 weeks, $150), Manners 1 (6 weeks, $250, covering engagement, sit, down, come, stay, place, leave it, and leash manners), and Manners 2 (6 weeks, $250, building on Manners 1 with increased reliability, recall, and focus around distractions).

The curriculum is designed to follow the American Kennel Clubs’ Family Dog program. They require all dogs to be spayed or neutered by one year of age, and specific vaccinations (Rabies, DHLLP, Bordatella every 6 months) are needed for enrollment. Puppy Socialization Class is available for puppies not fully vaccinated, with the facility sanitized before classes.

Pricing Summary

Board & Train is priced at $2,000 for a two-week immersive program that includes follow-up sessions. Day School offers an individual day rate of $60, with monthly packages available: $456 for 2x week, $648 for 3x week, and $1020 for 5x week. An alumni program for daycare is also available for graduates. Group Classes include Puppy Class for $150 (4-week course), Manners 1 for $250 (6-week course), and Manners 2 for $250 (6-week course).

Policies

For Day School, all dogs must be spayed or neutered by the time they reach one year of age. Male dogs approximately 6-10 months may struggle in play groups if not neutered. Females in Heat are not allowed in play group. For enrollment in services, dogs require Rabies, DHLLP, and Bordatella vaccinations every 6 months. Puppies not fully vaccinated can enroll in the Puppy Socialization Class, which is held in a fully sanitized facility.

NWA School For Dogs is a dog training business with a team of dedicated trainers led by owner Shanti Steddum, who has been training dogs since 1996. They offer comprehensive, force-free dog training programs designed to build confidence and good manners through positive reinforcement. Their services include Day School, Board & Train, Private Lessons, and Group Classes.

They specialize in transforming pets into well-mannered household companions through structured daycare and personalized training. Their curriculum covers foundational obedience commands like sit, stay, come, and heel, progressing to advanced skills such as public manners, advanced leash skills, and enrichment-based classes. They use science-based, positive reinforcement methods, explicitly stating they never use force or punishment, nor harsh corrections from shock or pinch collars.

Their goal is to empower owners with knowledge and skills to build strong bonds, enhance communication, and create harmonious relationships with their dogs. They cater to dogs at all stages of life, from new puppies to seasoned seniors, helping them progress from beginner skills to mastering them in various environments.

Accomplishments

Owner Shanti Steddum has been training dogs since 1996 and holds a B.S., KPA Certified Training Partner, CPDT-KA, and IAABC Certified credentials. Rachel Moseley is CPDT-KA and KPA-Comprehensive. Donavan Watts is KPA-Foundations. The team brings decades of combined experience in positive reinforcement training and canine behavior modification.

How to Get Started!

Clients can enroll in classes or programs via an online portal. Group classes have specific start dates, while the Puppy Class offers open enrollment, allowing clients to start any Saturday. For the Board & Train program, regular attendance at follow-up sessions is required to maintain and reinforce the dog’s progress.