Underdog Universe

Service area: Pittsburgh, PA

Underdog Universe offers various training programs tailored to individual dog and owner needs. All lessons are conducted one-on-one and last for one hour, ensuring a customized and effective approach.

Programs include Puppy Lessons for dogs 0-5 months old, focusing on personalized plans based on the pup’s behavior, lifestyle, and energy level. The Starter Package provides 4 comprehensive lessons, while the Total Training Package offers 8 comprehensive lessons for more in-depth training. Additional Lessons are available for dogs needing extra practice on specific skills or behaviors after completing a package.

The Board & Train Services offer 1-week (equivalent to 4 lessons), 2-week (equivalent to 8 lessons), and 3-week (approximately 12 lessons) options. These programs are personally conducted by Zack Cossick at his property and in public, with dogs being GPS monitored. Each Board & Train package concludes with a 2-hour personalized lesson for the owner to ensure continued progress at home. For reactive or aggressive dogs, individual lessons are recommended over the Board & Train program due to the longer time required for improvement.

Pricing Summary

Underdog Universe offers training packages designed to meet various budgets and training needs. A Puppy Lesson (0-5 Months) costs $70.00. The Starter Package, which includes 4 comprehensive lessons, is priced at $425.00. The Total Training Package, offering 8 comprehensive lessons, is available for $750.00. Additional Lessons can be purchased for $115.00 each. Board and Train Services are listed at $500.00, with options for 1-week, 2-week, or 3-week durations.

Zack Cossick, a lifelong dog owner and dedicated dog trainer, established Underdog Universe in 2023. The business provides dog training services, including puppy lessons, starter packages, total training packages, additional lessons, and board & train services, all with customized training plans.

Zack’s personal journey, including a diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma in early 2024, has deepened his empathy and commitment to using human-canine connections to inspire hope and healing. The company’s mission is to empower clients to learn and grow with their dogs beyond customized sessions, fostering new levels of trust and enjoyment.

Underdog Universe emphasizes quality, transparency, and fair pricing as a family business. They utilize a balanced training approach, combining praise-based techniques with positive and negative reinforcement. They also partner with a leading e-collar company to provide clients with tools for maintaining training at home.

Accomplishments

Zack Cossick established Underdog Universe in 2023. He is an AKC CGC Evaluator, authorized to test for the AKC STAR Puppy program, CGC, AKC Community Canine, and Urban CGC tests.

He is also a licensed evaluator and instructor for Therapy Dogs United. The business is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

How to Get Started!

Clients can call for a free evaluation to begin. After purchasing training sessions, Underdog Universe will be in touch shortly to schedule the sessions. A Services Agreement must be read and signed when training is scheduled.