The Duncan School Of Canine Excellence

The Duncan School offers diverse training programs. Family Dog Training addresses common issues like barking, leash pulling, jumping, house soiling, anxiety, and fear through one-on-one sessions using positive reinforcement, including homework. Obedience Level 1 ($395, 6 weeks) builds foundational skills for dogs 8 weeks and up, covering focus, basic commands, leash walking, and handling. Level 2 ($395, 6 weeks) refines these skills with field trips, focusing on advanced commands, increased distance/duration for stays, and social confidence. Level 3 ($395, 6 weeks) prepares dogs for urban environments, covering city etiquette, safe travel, and public building proficiency.

The Doodle Program ($2,000, 12 weeks) is a personalized one-on-one experience addressing nipping, jumping, and hyperactivity, progressing from classroom to field trips. It covers essential skills, advanced commands, leash manners, public confidence, socialization, house-training, and includes AKC STAR Puppy & AKC Canine Good Citizen certifications. The Service Dog Program ($9,000-15,000, 18-24 months) provides comprehensive training for independence, covering high-level obedience, socialization, task training, public access skills, and advocacy, starting with dogs as young as 8 weeks. The Therapy Dog Program ($3,800, 12 months) guides teams to become Pet Partners certified, covering obedience to certification standards, canine communication, environmental neutrality, and public etiquette. The Odor Detection Dog Program specializes in training for Wounded Game Trailing, Lost Pet Trailing, Bed Bug, Termite, and Mold Detection. Problem Solving Dog Training ($750, 6 weeks) addresses destructive chewing, jumping, and reactivity with tailored strategies and positive methods, though severe aggression cases may be referred out.

Pricing Summary

Consultations are $125 for Service Dog and Therapy Dog programs, while a free consultation is offered for Problem Solving Dog Training. Obedience Levels 1, 2, and 3 are each $395 per dog for 6 weekly lessons. The comprehensive 12-week Doodle Program costs $2,000. The ‘Path To Harmony Program’ for problem solving is $750 for 6 weeks. The Service Dog Program ranges from $9,000 to $15,000 for 18-24 months of training. The Therapy Dog Program is $3,800 for 12 months, with an initial payment of $500 followed by 11 monthly payments of $300. Additional fees for Pet Partners registration and background checks apply for therapy dog certification.

Policies

All sales are final, and no refunds will be issued. Clients are responsible for maintaining control of their dog during training and are liable for any damages caused by themselves or their dog to the training property. Dogs must be up-to-date on all annual vaccines, including deworming, and receive monthly preventive medications for heartworm and flea/tick. A copy of the dog’s rabies certificate (for dogs over 6 months) is required before participation. Dogs that are ill, in heat, or have communicable diseases are not permitted in class and require rescheduling. The school cannot accept aggressive dogs due to insurance coverage, and severe aggression cases may be referred to other trainers. Payment in full and proof of vaccination are mandatory before the first class, unless alternative arrangements are made. A $45 fee applies to returned checks. Clients are responsible for cleaning up after their dog and for continuing to reinforce training outside of formal sessions. No dog is allowed on agility equipment without a representative from The Duncan School of Canine Excellence present.

The Duncan School of Canine Excellence, founded and trained by Alisha Cline, offers expert dog training services in Cartersville, Georgia. They aim to help dog owners build a stronger, happier relationship with their furry friends by bridging communication gaps and addressing common behavioral challenges.

The school provides personalized private lessons in a comfortable, climate-controlled studio, focusing on building mutual focus and trust through fun, engaging games and confidence-building exercises. They emphasize positive reinforcement and confident communication, providing step-by-step guidance and homework for consistent practice.

The Duncan School offers a range of specialized programs including Family Pet Dog Obedience, Service Dog Training, Therapy Dog Certification Prep, and Odor Detection Dog Training. They also have a dedicated “Doodle Program” tailored to the unique needs of Doodle breeds. They are committed to helping owners turn frustration into connection and confusion into clarity, unlocking their dog’s full potential.

Accomplishments

Alisha Cline is the Founder and Trainer of The Duncan School of Canine Excellence. She is an experienced service dog handler, a SARK9 team member, and a certified tracking handler. Alisha is also an AKC Approved Evaluator and a Certified Judge. The school is affiliated with professional organizations including the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR), the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), and the National Association of Professional Canine Handlers (NAPWDA).

How to Get Started!

For general inquiries, The Duncan School will contact you to discuss your specific needs. For Family Dog Training, you can directly register for Obedience Levels 1, 2, or 3. For the Doodle Program, direct registration is available. For Service Dog and Therapy Dog programs, the first step is to schedule a one-hour consultation for $125, which helps clarify needs, suggests suitable breeds, evaluates your current dog’s potential, and answers questions. For Problem Solving Dog Training, a free consultation is offered. Once registered, new clients receive a welcome message detailing what to bring to the first class, including a water bowl, high-value training treats, a favorite toy, a collar, and a sturdy 4ft leash (no retractable leashes).