What A Great Dog!

What A Great Dog! offers a structured progression of programs starting with Puppy Programs and Pet Manners (Manners 1–3), followed by advanced classes in Rally, Obedience, Nose Work, Barn Hunt, Trick Dog, and Therapy Dog Prep. Each program builds on previous skills, with class readiness evaluations required for group enrollment. Online versions of many programs are available for self-paced learning. Drop-off training (Great Dog Day School) and private lessons provide targeted support. All programs use positive reinforcement and include AKC title opportunities.

Pricing Summary

Group classes range from $168 for 4-week novice trick dog courses to $252 for 6-week intermediate and advanced courses. Private lessons and specialized programs are available by appointment with pricing based on session length and type. Online programs are offered at fixed rates, and drop-off training (Great Dog Day School) is available as a separate service. Retail products are sold separately.

Policies

Requires dogs to be current on vaccinations. Dogs not in the facility for 2+ months (under 1 year) or 6+ months (over 1 year) must complete a Class Readiness Evaluation before re-enrolling. Policies on cancellations and rescheduling are available on their website under “Policies.”

What A Great Dog! is a dog training business based in Frisco, TX, offering fun, effective, positive, reward-based training for dogs of all ages and skill levels. They provide both group classes and private lessons at their 16,000 sq ft training center, which features four training rings and private lesson rooms. The business also operates a retail shop selling training gear, supplies, and dog food. Their programs include puppy training, basic manners, behavior modification, rally obedience, nose work, barn hunt, trick dog, conformation handling, flyball, and therapy dog preparation. They offer in-facility, online, drop-off, and in-home training options to suit different lifestyles. Their training philosophy is rooted in positive reinforcement, with no use of corrections or aversive tools.

They serve dog owners in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with a focus on building strong human-dog relationships through consistent, science-backed methods. Their team includes certified trainers with expertise in AKC programs, and they host competitive events like WCRL trials. The facility is clean, spacious, and designed to support both learning and fun.

What A Great Dog! also offers online training programs through Thinkific, including self-paced courses for puppies, manners, nose work, tricks, and separation anxiety. They provide class readiness evaluations to ensure dogs are prepared for group settings, and their staff offers personalized advice to help owners succeed at home.

Accomplishments

Founded in 2007 by Maureen Patin, a former PepsiCo executive with experience in competitive obedience. The facility hosts AKC Canine Good Citizen and Trick Dog trials. Trainers include CPDT-KA certified professionals and AKC CGC, Trick, and Temperament Test evaluators. The business has trained hundreds of dogs and supports multiple dog sports and therapy programs.

How to Get Started!

New clients must complete a Class Readiness Evaluation before enrolling in group classes. For private lessons or online programs, clients can schedule directly through the website. Puppy owners are encouraged to start with the online Puppy Seminar or in-facility Puppy Programs.