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Taking the Lead

Columbus, Ohio

5/5· 151 Google reviews

About Taking the Lead

Is your dog's behavior causing frustration? If so, look no further than Taking the Lead, the premier option for dog training in Columbus, OH. Our comprehensive programs cater to all of your canine needs. Our day training model is perfect for general obedience and puppy training. For those dealing with more challenging issues, we offer specialized training for reactive and aggressive dogs. Our expert trainers use proven techniques to address these complex behaviors, creating a safer and more harmonious relationship between you and your pet. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and embark on your journey to a well-behaved, happy dog!

Training & services

Training goals

  • Behavior consultation
    Program details
  • Crate training
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  • Leash training
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  • Obedience training
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  • Puppy training
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  • Socialization
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Behavior support

  • Aggression training
    Program details
  • Barking
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  • Counter surfing
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  • Fear and confidence
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  • Jumping up Customer-reported
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  • Reactivity training
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  • Resource guarding
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  • Separation anxiety
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How training happens

  • Day training
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  • In-home training
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  • Online or virtual training
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  • Owner coaching
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  • Private training
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Dog age

  • Puppies
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  • Senior dogs
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Support between sessions

  • Follow-up support
    Program details
  • Homework and practice Customer-reported
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  • Personalized training plans
    Program details

Dog sports

  • Agility
    Program details

Your dog’s background

  • Rescue dogs
    Program details

Training approach

  • Clicker training
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Consultations

  • Free consultation
    Program details

Other listed services

View 5 additional details
  • Alumni Social Events
    Program details
  • Dog Barks
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  • Lifetime Training
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  • Nail Trims
    Program details
  • Transformation Session
    Program details

Confirm current programs and availability directly.

Questions & answers

From Google

What people have asked about this business.

How much do your services cost?

Our pricing varies depending on the type and duration of training required. We offer package deals for multiple sessions as well as individual session rates. Please contact us for a personalized quote based on your specific needs and goals for your dog.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How long does training typically take?

The duration of training varies depending on the dog's age, breed, and temperament as well as the specific training program and goals. Basic obedience training usually takes four to six weeks, while more complex behavior issues may require eight to 12 weeks or longer. We work with each customer to establish a realistic timeline based on their dog's needs.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What is your training philosophy?

Our training philosophy is based on positive reinforcement with a balance and building a strong bond between dog and owner. We believe in using reward-based methods to encourage desired behaviors rather than punishment-based techniques. Our goal is to create a happy, well-behaved dog and a confident, knowledgeable owner. We help our customers communicate through the leash first while applying classical and operant conditioning.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Why should I consider professional dog training for my pet?

Professional dog training classes can help to prevent behavioral problems, such as aggression and destructive chewing, and can teach your dog basic obedience skills that make them a better companion. It also helps to strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What kind of behavioral issues can be addressed through professional dog training?

Professional dog training can address a wide range of behavioral issues, including aggression toward people or other dogs, separation anxiety, fear of loud noises or new situations, destructive chewing or digging, excessive barking or whining, and more.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What types of training do you offer?

We provide a range of training services including basic obedience, leash training, behavior modification, and specialized training for service dogs. Our programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of each dog and owner.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Do you offer group classes or private sessions?

We offer group classes and private training sessions. Group classes are ideal for socialization and basic obedience, while private sessions allow for more focused attention on specific behavior issues or advanced training goals.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Where do you train?

Our 4,700-square-foot facility in Upper Arlington is where most of our training takes place. We also take advantage of the local scene, including stores and metro parks like Antrim for training outings. Every day our dogs go on pack walks and field trips in the neighborhood to help them become well-socialized and -mannered.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, we offer in-house financing and financing through Affirm to our customers.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What breeds of dogs do you train?

We train all breeds and sizes. From Chihuahuas to Great Danes, the big and small, we train them all.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Do you guarantee your training?

Yes, we guarantee group classes for the life of your dog. If your goals aren't reached during your program, we'll continue to provide support through group classes for maintenance and progress. No matter if it takes two months or two years, we'll be here for you and your dog until you're completely satisfied.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Can all dogs be trained?

Yes, all dogs can be trained. However, some dogs may require more patience and persistence in dog training classes than others, and certain grades may require specialized training techniques.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
When is the best time to start training my puppy?

The earlier you start training your puppy, the better. Puppies have a critical socialization time period. Between three and four weeks of age is when they are most receptive to learning and new experiences.

Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21

Question on Google

Public community answers. Authors are not verified as business representatives; details may have changed.

Customer reviews

Google listing
5
out of 5151 Google reviews

Mentioned in reviews

  • knowledgeable trainers 16
  • leash training 16
  • reactivity training 12
  • anxious dog training 7
  • crate training 5
  • tailored training 5
All 10 topics
  • transformation session 5
  • confident dog owners 3
  • disobedience training 2
  • rescue dog training 2

Google review topics, not confirmed services.

100 collected reviews

Text reviews first · newest first
Erika Pearsol
5/5

Before starting with this training, I could not even walk Pumba because of how much he pulled. He is now walking by my side every day!! His sister is doing well, too! Much better at sitting and staying. Still need to work on a few bad habits…but we have the skills and equipment to help us now!

Britney R.
4/5
Our dog mario just graduated their program! My husband and I have enjoyed getting to know everyone (Marco, Kaitlyn, Jamie, Bishop, Karla, etc!) They are all so kind and encouraging. Mario has learned how to calm down in exciting environments and does great on walks now. Keep in m…Read full reviewClose full review

Our dog mario just graduated their program! My husband and I have enjoyed getting to know everyone (Marco, Kaitlyn, Jamie, Bishop, Karla, etc!) They are all so kind and encouraging. Mario has learned how to calm down in exciting environments and does great on walks now. Keep in mind that training takes time a lot of effort, not just from the dog but also the owner. This a great program to get involved in! We are excited to start taking Mario to the alumni events!

Jane Henderson
5/5

Taking the lead was amazing! Everything was great from the beginning. The trainers and training she received was as advertised. They tailored the training to what we needed. Highly recommend! Marco is the best

Kelly Morris
5/5
If you are looking for a trainer - THIS IS WHERE YOU WANT TO GO! I don't think my review will come close to the praise that Taking the Lead deserves. First of all - these are some of the most kind people you will meet. Lindsay and her entire team (specifically Marco!) are just ki…Read full reviewClose full review

If you are looking for a trainer - THIS IS WHERE YOU WANT TO GO! I don't think my review will come close to the praise that Taking the Lead deserves. First of all - these are some of the most kind people you will meet. Lindsay and her entire team (specifically Marco!) are just kind humans. Every single drop off, every single encounter, every single lesson - they are just wonderful people. They care deeply about the success of you and your relationship with your dog. On top of being gems of humans, they significantly help you achieve what you want with your dog. My dog (and 8 year old cockapoo -- never too late!) spent most of her lessons with Marco and I can't recommend the training program enough. He was kind, patient, understanding, and non-judgmental. A lot of my issues involved leash reactivity and hyper behavior in the home. They by no means will "change" your dog - they just give you the tools to build upon your relationship. You take the lessons home each week and it's up to you to build that confidence and relationship with your animal. They are wonderfully responsive to text messages and easy to communicate with. They talk through things (and can even predict how things will go) when talking through different situations. My dog is still learning and I look forward to continuing her training over the next several months. Thank you to the entire team at Taking The Lead.

kim Notgonnasay
5/5
This team has helped my rescue pupp build confidence and skills. She is very reactionary due to her fear and could really be hard to get under control. This team tought us how to continue working on the skills she was learning. My family member sent their dog to a training where …Read full reviewClose full review

This team has helped my rescue pupp build confidence and skills. She is very reactionary due to her fear and could really be hard to get under control. This team tought us how to continue working on the skills she was learning. My family member sent their dog to a training where the dog stays for a few weeks and then goes home. It was great at first but then she went right back to her issues because the owners did not know how to do better. The process with taking the lead ensures long term results because you learn how to continue what you are starting. There is only moving up from the time you start. Totally worth everything to see my girl be able to find herself and work through her issues! Thank you for everything you have done for us.

Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.

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