Work’n Pawz Dog Training LLC

Foundation Class for puppies/newly adopted dogs teaches sit, down, wait, loose leash walking, and potty training. Adolescent Fundamentals builds on these skills with distraction-proofing, recall, and polite walking. Classes are 5 weeks long, with the first session lasting 2 hours and subsequent sessions 1 hour. Optional 6th-week bonus class included. Private sessions are 60–90 minutes. Field trips and day training available. All programs use positive, choice-based methods with an emphasis on autonomy and relationship-building.

Pricing Summary

Group classes cost $185 for a 5-week course with a free 6th-week bonus session. Private in-home initial consultations are $125 (60–90 minutes), with follow-ups at $100. Day training and field trips available upon inquiry. A $10 travel fee applies for locations over 25 miles from Scappoose/St. Helens. Discounts: 10% for seniors (55+) and military veterans. Payment accepted via cash, Venmo, or check.

Policies

No cancellation or rescheduling policy is explicitly stated. Clients are encouraged to contact Teresa or Gwen directly for scheduling inquiries. Classes require pre-registration, and payment is due at time of enrollment.

Work’n Pawz Dog Training LLC, in collaboration with Kaleidoscope Dog Training LLC under the KDogz Dog Training brand, offers positive reinforcement-based dog training services in Oregon. Founded in 2010 by Teresa Malarkey, a certified Veterinary Technician and Karen Pryor Academy graduate, the business provides group classes, private in-home training, and day training. Teresa and Gwen LaPiro, a CPDT-KA certified trainer with a B.S. in Animal Science, focus on choice-based, reward-driven methods that emphasize dog autonomy, communication, and holistic well-being. Gwen integrates knowledge of canine nutrition and health into behavior training. Services include Foundation and Adolescent classes, loose leash walking sessions, and behavior modification for reactivity, potty training, recall, and more. They also offer a 3-3-3 guide for new puppy owners and support service dog training. Both trainers mentor aspiring dog professionals through Animal Behavior College.

They serve clients in Scappoose, St. Helens, and surrounding areas, offering flexible scheduling with weekend classes and in-home sessions. All training uses positive reinforcement with tools like clickers, food rewards, and harnesses. No corrections, pinch collars, or e-collars are used.

Discounts are available for seniors and military veterans. Payment options include cash, Venmo, and check. Classes are structured in 5-week packages with optional bonus sessions.

The trainers prioritize building lifelong human-dog relationships through clear communication, consistency, and patience, helping dogs thrive in their homes and communities.

Accomplishments

Teresa Malarkey is a board-certified Veterinary Technician, graduated from Animal Behavior College’s Dog Obedience Program, certified by Karen Pryor Academy, and studied service dog training with Service Dogs Inc. She has mentored over 15 ABC students since 2010. Gwen LaPiro holds a B.S. in Animal Science from Oregon State University, is CPDT-KA certified (recertified 2025), and has trained with an ADI-accredited service dog organization. Both are mentors for Animal Behavior College.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can contact Teresa or Gwen via phone or email to inquire about class schedules, book private sessions, or request a free initial consultation. Group classes require registration and are offered in 5-week sessions starting in September. Private in-home consultations are available with a 60–90 minute initial session.