Tree Frog Farm Dog Training

Tree Frog Farm offers a tiered training structure: beginner classes (Puppy and Family Dog) are 7-week group sessions with a dog-free orientation. Intermediate training includes Charm School for Dogs (10 weeks, requires prerequisite class) and Confident Canine (4 weeks). Advanced options include Canine Good Citizen preparation and agility training. Private lessons are available for individuals or families, with options for handler-present or handler-absent sessions. Hybrid packages combine group and private instruction. Distance learning is conducted via video call. All programs emphasize individualized pacing, family involvement, and behavior modification for reactive or fearful dogs.

Pricing Summary

Private lessons are $125/hour, with a four-lesson package at $460 and a 24-lesson package at $2,700. Group puppy and family dog classes are $250 for 7 weeks. The hybrid class (7-week group + 2 private lessons) is $480. Charm School for Dogs is $350 for 10 weeks. Canine Good Citizen prep is $200 for 6 weeks. Distance learning is also $125/hour. Travel fees apply for in-home lessons, starting at $10 minimum. Prepaid lessons require more than 24 hours’ notice for cancellation; missed lessons without notice are forfeited.

Policies

Prepaid private lessons require more than 24 hours’ notice for cancellation; missed lessons without notice are deducted from the package. Unpaid lessons canceled within 24 hours require a deposit to reschedule. Group classes require pre-registration and do not allow mid-stream entry unless prearranged. All classes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tree Frog Farm Dog Training is a facility-based dog training business located in North Yarmouth, Maine, led by Liz Langham, a certified trainer with over 25 years of experience. They specialize in reward-based training that emphasizes building a strong relationship between dog and owner, focusing on understanding canine communication, safety, and individualized approaches. Services include private lessons, group classes for puppies and family dogs, behavior consultations for fear, reactivity, and aggression, confidence-building programs, and dog agility training. They also offer distance learning via video calls for clients nationwide. Their unique advantage lies in Liz’s extensive background in animal science and qualitative sociology, combined with hands-on experience working with rescue dogs and conducting behavior evaluations for shelters. The facility is set in a natural, wildlife-friendly environment, and training sessions often incorporate play, environmental enrichment, and real-world exposure. They do not offer boarding or day training but provide in-person and virtual options tailored to busy families, reactive dogs, and new adopters.

They prioritize prevention and alternative behaviors over punishment, using auditory markers and rewards such as food, play, and access to resources. Their “Charm School for Dogs” and “Confident Canine” programs are designed for dogs with prior training experience, while their hybrid classes combine group instruction with private sessions for personalized progress. They also offer pre-puppy consultations and evaluations for dogs with questionable behaviors.

Liz’s training philosophy centers on making learning fun, relaxing, and effective, with a strong emphasis on the emotional well-being of both dog and owner. Clients appreciate her calm demeanor, deep knowledge, and ability to bridge communication gaps between humans and dogs.

Tree Frog Farm also supports wildlife conservation and occasionally incorporates nature observation into training sessions, creating a unique, holistic training environment.

Accomplishments

Liz Langham holds a BS in Sustainable Agriculture with an animal science concentration and an MS in Horticulture with a minor in qualitative sociology. She is a Certified SAFER Evaluator, has conducted behavior evaluations for ASPCA, ARL, CHS, and other shelters, and has presented at veterinary and community events on canine body language. She has been featured in Down East Magazine, Maine Today, and on Maine Calling radio. Liz has trained dogs since 1994 and has led demonstrations at LLBean Dog Days, North Yarmouth Fun Day, and other public events. She has attended seminars with leading experts including Dr. Nicholas Dodman, Sarah Kalnajs, and Susan Garrett.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must email to register, including their full name, phone number, dog’s name/age/breed, and desired class or service. For private lessons or consultations, Liz will respond with scheduling options. Group classes begin with a mandatory dog-free orientation. First-time clients are recommended to schedule a private lesson before enrolling in Charm School to allow Liz to assess skills and tailor the program.