Smart Paws

Smart Paws offers a 16-day intensive Board and Train program with total immersion in a facility setting, combining obedience and behavior modification with real-world exposure. Private lessons provide one-on-one training for owners and dogs, with ongoing reinforcement guidance. All programs are tailored to individual dogs and include lifetime behavioral guarantees. Training focuses on positive reinforcement using praise and rewards.

Pricing Summary

Transparent pricing with no hidden fees or add-on charges. Free consultation offered. Specific pricing for programs like the 16-day Board and Train or private lessons is not listed publicly but available during consultation.

Policies

Lifetime guaranteed results for training outcomes. Trainers provide follow-up support and check-ins after board-and-train programs. No specific cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated in the content.

Smart Paws is a family-owned dog training business based in Cleves, OH, offering positive, praise-based training for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages. With over 10 years of experience, they specialize in behavior modification for issues like leash reactivity, separation anxiety, jumping, excessive barking, biting, and poor recall using reward-based methods that build trust and confidence. Their signature 16-day Board and Train program provides intensive, immersive training in a safe facility, while private lessons help owners reinforce skills at home. In addition to training, Smart Paws offers dog boarding, daycare, and professional grooming services, ensuring a full-service experience for pet owners. They guarantee lifetime results and never charge hidden fees. Their trainers, including owner Tom Tenkman, focus on education and collaboration with owners to ensure long-term success.

All services are delivered at their facility, which provides structured, individualized care during boarding and daycare, with no group play aggression concerns. They also offer evening grooming appointments and maintain a blog with helpful training tips for dog owners.

Smart Paws is one of the few Cincinnati-area facilities dedicated exclusively to positive reinforcement training, avoiding fear-based methods entirely.

Accomplishments

Owner and head trainer Tom Tenkman attended the National K-9 Learning Center of Columbus for Master Trainer education and has trained dogs for over 10 years. Smart Paws is recognized as one of the few Cincinnati-based facilities offering exclusively positive, praise-based training.

How to Get Started!

Dog owners begin by scheduling a free consultation via the website or phone to discuss their dog’s needs, behavior issues, and preferred training program. The consultation includes an assessment and personalized recommendation.