TLC Dog Trainer

Private training is customized in-home sessions targeting specific behaviors like obedience, reactivity, or anxiety, with a recommended 4-session commitment. Group classes are offered in four levels: S.T.A.R. Puppy (under 7 months), Tweener (7+ months, no prior training), Basic Obedience 1 (after S.T.A.R. or Tweener), and Basic Obedience 2 (preparing for Canine Good Citizen). Service dog training follows a 3-step process: complimentary phone consultation, $170 in-person team evaluation, and customized training sessions with a final public access evaluation.

Pricing Summary

Private training sessions are $170 per 60-minute in-person session, typically requiring a 4-session commitment. Puppy package includes 4 sessions. Service dog training includes a complimentary phone consultation, a $170 team evaluation, and $170 per training session. Group classes cost $250 for New Milford residents and $275 for non-residents.

Donna Gleason, a certified professional dog trainer and certified dog behavior consultant, offers professional in-home dog training services to dog owners in Connecticut and New York. With over 20 years of experience, she provides efficient, effective, and fun training grounded in research-based methods and personalized to each dog’s needs. Donna specializes in behavior modification for issues like separation anxiety, fear-based behaviors, reactivity, biting, and resource guarding, and also offers comprehensive service dog training, puppy training, and obedience programs. She emphasizes a gentle, non-fear-based approach and never recommends anything she wouldn’t do with her own dogs. Her services include private in-home sessions, group classes through New Milford Park and Recreation, and service dog team evaluations. Donna is vet-recommended and has contributed to peer-reviewed research in veterinary behavior. She provides ongoing support through follow-up emails, resources, and emergency consultations.

Her group classes include S.T.A.R. Puppy for dogs under 7 months, Tweener for older dogs with no prior training, and Basic Obedience 1 and 2 for progressing skills and preparing for Canine Good Citizen certification. All training is tailored to the owner’s lifestyle and ability to follow through, ensuring long-term success.

Donna holds multiple certifications including CDBC, CPDT, and Service Dog Coach, and is an appointed state evaluator and expert witness on canine behavior. She is committed to helping dogs live more comfortably and happily through understanding their communication and needs.

Accomplishments

Donna Gleason holds a Master’s Degree in Behavior Modification, is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (IAABC), Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT), and Certified Service Dog Coach. She is a Research Associate with the Canine Center for Behavior Studies, worked with Dr. Nicholas Dodman, and is a contributing author to the Journal of Veterinary Behavior. She is an appointed independent canine evaluator and dog bite expert for the State of Connecticut, and has presented for the State Department of Agriculture and World Pet Association. Her case studies are highlighted internationally by IAABC.

How to Get Started!

Begin with a complimentary phone consultation to discuss needs and dog history. For private or behavior modification training, schedule a 60-minute in-home evaluation. For service dog training, proceed to the $170 team evaluation after the phone consultation. Group classes require registration through the New Milford Park and Recreation website.