Paws ‘N Effect Canine Training Center

Programs are structured into multi-week group classes with progressive levels: Puppy Kindergarten introduces foundational skills; Family Dog Training series builds obedience through Basics, Practicing the Basics, and Training Games; Connection, Cooperation & Control™ focuses on relationship-building; Canine Good Citizen prepares dogs for certification; Agility, Nosework, and Rally Obedience offer sport-specific training; Therapy Dog classes prepare dogs and handlers for certification. Private sessions are available for tailored support. Each class includes weekly handouts for home practice.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not listed publicly; interested clients are encouraged to call or email for class registration and pricing information. Classes are small and require advance registration.

Policies

Proof of rabies vaccination is required for dogs over 6 months. Classes are small and require registration. Weather-related cancellations are announced via WTNH, WFSB, and WVIT. No specific cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated, but clients are advised to call or email for inquiries.

Paws ‘N Effect Canine Training Center is a dog training facility located in Hamden, Connecticut, offering positive reinforcement-based training for dogs of all ages and breeds. They provide a wide range of group classes including Puppy Kindergarten, Family Dog Training (Basics and Practicing the Basics), Connection, Cooperation & Control™, Canine Good Citizen, and fun-focused classes like Dogs Just Want to Have Fun. They also offer specialized sport classes in Agility, Nosework, and Rally Obedience, as well as Therapy Dog training through their Paws Cares program. Private sessions are available for individualized support. The facility features state-of-the-art indoor training spaces, is clean and well-equipped, and includes an on-site pet supply store for dog food, treats, and training tools. Their trainers are certified professionals with extensive experience in dog behavior, sports, and therapy work.

The business emphasizes positive training methods, with multiple trainers holding CPDT-KA certifications and affiliations with APDT, AKC, and Pet Partners. They also offer Pet CPR and First Aid certification, and their therapy dog program includes instructor and evaluator roles. Classes are small, and weekly handouts are provided to support home practice. The facility welcomes all dog sizes and types, from puppies to seniors, and supports both family companionship and competitive goals.

Paws ‘N Effect is committed to animal welfare, with staff involved in shelter work, Humane Society programs, and community outreach. They require proof of rabies vaccination for dogs over 6 months and maintain clear rules and policies for class participation.

Accomplishments

Kathy Shea, owner and CPDT-KA, was among the first nationwide to earn pet dog trainer certification in 2001. She is a Humane Commissioner, Pet Partners Instructor & Evaluator, and graduate of the Humane Society’s Pets for Life program. Sandy House, CPDT-KA, is an AKC CGC and STAR Puppy Instructor & Evaluator and a graduate of Karen Pryor’s Puppy Start Right course. Shari King, CPDT-KA, is an AKC ACT Evaluator and OneMind Dogs Instructor; her sheltie Paisley earned MACH4 at Westminster Masters Agility Championship. Lil Clark has trained dogs since 1972 and has competed in multiple dog sports with titled dogs. Brian Tippy’s Golden Retriever is a registered therapy dog making weekly hospital and school visits.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can call (203) 281-7150, email, or use the online contact form to ask questions or register for classes. Class availability varies by enrollment, and registration is required in advance.