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
Crate training
Leash training
Obedience training
Puppy training
Socialization
Behavior support
Aggression training
Barking
Counter surfing
Fear and confidence
Jumping upCustomer-reported
Reactivity training
Resource guarding
Separation anxiety
How training happens
Day training
In-home training
Online or virtual training
Owner coaching
Private training
Dog age
Puppies
Senior dogs
Support between sessions
Follow-up support
Homework and practiceCustomer-reported
Personalized training plans
Dog sports
Agility
Your dog’s background
Rescue dogs
Training approach
Clicker training
Consultations
Free consultation
Other listed services
View 5 additional details
Alumni Social Events
Dog Barks
Lifetime Training
Nail Trims
Transformation Session
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
5/5My experience with Taking the Lead was phenomenal. We turned to them for help with Parker, who was struggling with disobedience, reactivity, and separation anxiety, challenges we didn’t know how to handle. Taking the Lead provided both Parker and me with the right training, tool…Read full reviewClose full review
My experience with Taking the Lead was phenomenal. We turned to them for help with Parker, who was struggling with disobedience, reactivity, and separation anxiety, challenges we didn’t know how to handle. Taking the Lead provided both Parker and me with the right training, tools, and resources to manage those issues effectively. Now, Parker is a much better-behaved dog, and as a family, we finally have peace of mind when we go out for walks and around the house too.
E
Emily Stewart
5/5Taking the Lead was absolutely amazing. Our puppy was about 4 months old when we started. She needed to learn good manners and to stop chasing the cats. The results have been amazing. The at home training created such a special bond with her. She is much better with cats after he…Read full reviewClose full review
Taking the Lead was absolutely amazing. Our puppy was about 4 months old when we started. She needed to learn good manners and to stop chasing the cats. The results have been amazing. The at home training created such a special bond with her. She is much better with cats after her training. We will definitely be back once we get a buddy for our sweet Schatzi. We worked closely with Anthoney and Lindsey. They were both outstanding along with everyone else who working with her. My husband and I cannot say enough great things about Taking the Lead.
汤
汤正寰
5/5Our puppy Ditto just graduated from training, and we couldn’t be happier! He’s now so well-behaved in public and stays calm even in stressful situations. We travel frequently by air, and the trainers did an amazing job customizing his training to fit our specific needs. They were…Read full reviewClose full review
Our puppy Ditto just graduated from training, and we couldn’t be happier! He’s now so well-behaved in public and stays calm even in stressful situations. We travel frequently by air, and the trainers did an amazing job customizing his training to fit our specific needs. They were patient, professional, and truly cared about Ditto’s progress. Highly recommend this team to anyone looking for a personalized and effective training experience! Here are some pictures of Ditto.
S
Sarah Smith
5/5
The trainers worked wonders with my dog. I have nothing bad to say about the entire experience. They were patient with him and with us as owners. My dog seemed to like them all but really responded well to Marco. Overall, a wonderful experience. Would def recommend
A
Anthea Gray
5/5My pup 🐶 had an amazing experience with Taking the Lead! She walked in a “reactive” dog and highly anxious. As a point of info, these are TikTok buzzwords commonly used to describe animal behaviors, but it’s code for “your dog is uncomfortable and needs professional help.” At t…Read full reviewClose full review
My pup 🐶 had an amazing experience with Taking the Lead! She walked in a “reactive” dog and highly anxious. As a point of info, these are TikTok buzzwords commonly used to describe animal behaviors, but it’s code for “your dog is uncomfortable and needs professional help.” At the end of my baby girl’s training, I would describe her as confident 😎. Additionally, I am now confident that when I bring her around other dogs and in public, my dog will be cool and calm. Gone are the days when I hesitate to bring her to brunch or to the store, because I am nervous that she’ll lunge or bark at another dog. As a result, training at Taking the Lead has not only changed my dog’s behaviors, but also deepened my trust in her and totally changed our relationship!
In addition to the highly personalized training assessment we got from the amazing (Google her credentials 🤩!) owner, the trainers were top notch! We were SO fortunate to get matched with Marco ✨⭐️. He was encouraging, patient, kind, and an excellent educator! He REALLY understands the mind of a dog. So impressive! It’s a big deal to hand your furry baby over to another person for a day, but I had total confidence in Marco and Taking the Lead. They truly care for their fur-students. My only regret is that I didn’t send my little girl in sooner for training!
Oh! And the cherry on top is that if you train with Taking the Lead, you get access to social events with other graduates! It gives us the opportunity to “tune up” and fine tune our pup’s skills that she learned. The support that’s offered through this program is truly unmatched.
Thank you Marco and Taking the Lead 🐾🤍🐾
Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.
FirstBark