Whole Dog University

Whole Dog University offers a variety of customized training programs designed to meet individual dog and owner needs. The Early Puppyhood Development Program (8-16 weeks old) focuses on foundational development, proper socialization, housebreaking, bite inhibition, and behavioral boundaries through a comprehensive consultation and group classes.

Basic Obedience (On-Leash) includes three options: Intro to Basic Obedience for core commands, Comprehensive Basic Obedience (most popular) which expands on basic commands and addresses minor behavioral issues, and Basic Obedience for Expectant Parents, a unique program tailored to prepare dogs for a new baby’s arrival. The Walk Doctor Program specifically teaches loose-leash walking for dogs with an existing obedience foundation.

Advanced Obedience (Off-Leash) builds upon basic skills, incorporating low-level Remote Training Collar (RTC/e-collar) work for off-leash control, with options for full off-leash training, off-leash recall only, or off-leash recall with place/stay. Owners are required to experience the e-collar stimulation themselves.

Residential Day-Training programs allow dogs to receive intensive, customized training at the facility and off-site locations during the day while returning home at night. Options include one-week, two-week (most popular for comprehensive on-leash or mild/moderate behavior modification), and three-week programs (for basic obedience with off-leash recall or significant behavior modification). Each residential program includes private lessons for owners.

Behavior Modification addresses a wide range of challenges such as possessiveness, reactivity, jumping, housebreaking issues, hyperactivity, fears, anxiety, and aggression, starting with a comprehensive consultation to identify root causes and develop a tailored plan. Specialized Training includes Scent Detection programs: Intro to Scent Work for dogs 8 months or older to learn effective hunting using treats, and Intro to Odor Program for graduates to identify specific odors like birch, anise, and clove, preparing for competitive opportunities. All programs emphasize a balanced approach with positive reinforcement and fair corrections, owner coaching, and consistent homework.

Whole Dog University (WDU) is a professional dog training and education business located in Lebanon, Ohio, dedicated to helping dogs unlock their potential and empowering owners to build stronger relationships with their canine companions. They strive to operate a God-honoring business guided by principles of honesty, integrity, and genuine care, combining professionalism, patience, and openness with a heartfelt commitment to serving both dogs and their owners.

WDU works with dogs of all breeds and ages, from 8-week-old puppies to adult dogs, including those with special needs. They serve clients throughout Southwest Ohio at their facility or in-home when necessary. Their mission is to improve the lives of dogs and the relationships they share with their owners, working with dogs needing basic training and specializing in behavioral challenges to prevent and alleviate problems, help dogs reach their full potential, and enrich families’ lives.

WDU takes a holistic, balanced approach to dog training, focusing on the whole dog’s physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. Key elements of their philosophy include considering each dog’s instincts, personality, and motivators, teaching “Yes” to desired behaviors and “No” to undesirable ones, prioritizing positive teaching methods and humane corrections, and emphasizing owner education for clear communication and consistent leadership. They see themselves as a resource and partner, bridging the communication gap between owners and their dogs.

Accomplishments

Whole Dog University, LLC was founded in Tupelo, Mississippi in 2011 and began operating in Ohio in early 2017. The business is self-proclaimed as “Lebanon’s Most Trusted Dog Trainer.”

How to Get Started!

To get started with Whole Dog University, clients are encouraged to contact them to learn more about their training programs. The first step involves requesting a consultation, which includes an in-depth, comprehensive one-on-one consultation with the owner and their puppy or adult dog before any training begins.