Tara’s School for Dogs

Training programs are structured in progressive levels: Puppy Foundations I covers early socialization, house training, basic obedience, and prevention of common behavioral issues. Puppy Foundations II builds on these skills with advanced obedience, distraction proofing, and real-world manners. Adult dog programs focus on manners, obedience, and behavior modification for issues like leash pulling, separation anxiety, and resource guarding. All programs include personalized, one-on-one instruction with flexible scheduling and optional Zoom sessions. Programs prepare dogs for AKC STAR Puppy and Canine Good Citizen certifications.

Pricing Summary

Private training packages are priced at $900 for both Puppy Foundations I and II, each including six one-hour sessions with summary notes. Pricing is structured around session packages rather than hourly rates. Rates are set to support the local pet-owning community and are scheduled to increase in 2026.

Policies

Rescheduling is encouraged if clients or household members have been exposed to COVID-19 or are unwell. A flexible cancellation policy is in place to accommodate life’s unpredictability. Clients may use different locations (in-home, outdoor, Zoom) within a purchased package.

Tara’s School for Dogs is a dog training business based in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, founded by Mary, a certified professional dog trainer committed to positive reinforcement methods. The business specializes in private, in-home and outdoor training sessions for puppies and adult dogs, with a strong focus on early socialization, basic obedience, and behavior modification. Mary offers customized training programs tailored to each dog’s needs, including preparation for AKC STAR Puppy and Canine Good Citizen certifications. She emphasizes science-based, reward-based training that builds trust and strengthens the human-animal bond, and she supports pet owners with educational resources on puppy development, vaccination, and behavior science. Her services are designed for families in urban environments, helping dogs adapt to apartment living and city stimuli.

Mary holds multiple certifications including CPDT-KA, CCDT, and is an AKC Evaluator for STAR Puppy and CGC programs. She is a Supporting Member of IAABC and a Professional Member of APDT, reinforcing her commitment to ethical, evidence-based training. The business also provides product recommendations and blog content to support ongoing learning for pet owners.

Training is offered in flexible formats including in-home, outdoor, and remote Zoom sessions, with packages structured around progressive skill-building. Mary’s approach is individualized, ensuring that each dog and family receives a plan suited to their unique lifestyle and challenges.

Accomplishments

Mary is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), a CATCH Canine Trainer’s Academy (CCDT) graduate, and an AKC Evaluator for STAR Puppy and Canine Good Citizen programs. She is a Supporting Member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and a Professional Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT). Tara’s School for Dogs is an Official AKC Puppy Partner.

How to Get Started!

Client engagement begins with a free phone consultation to assess needs and determine the best training approach. After consultation, clients can sign up for a package of sessions, with scheduling available weekdays and weekends, including morning, afternoon, and evening times.