The staff is thorough and friendly. They took the time to find out methods that worked best for our dog. We appreciate the intake on the mornings of drop off asking targeted questions about our training that week. Anthony was the primary trainer ands was very patient with our beagle. We would recommend Taking The Lead to anyone looking to improve their dogs behaviors.

Taking the Lead
Columbus, Ohio
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
- Crate training
- Leash training
- Obedience training
- Puppy training
- Socialization
Behavior support
- Aggression training
- Barking
- Counter surfing
- Fear and confidence
- Jumping up Customer-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 practice Customer-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 GoogleWhat 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Public community answers. Authors are not verified as business representatives; details may have changed.
Customer reviews
Google listingMentioned 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.
We reached out to Taking the Lead for some behavioral issues with one of our dogs. We are pleased with the training Macie received there and know that she was loved on too! We could see a difference in her with just the first session. We learned a lot as her owners as well! Thank you for helping us and Macie.
Last winter, my 3 year old dog started showing some aggression towards teenage boys so I decided to look for a dog trainer that could help. I reached out to several trainers, a lot of them charging $50-$100 just to meet the dog, and then didn’t even demonstrate anything they coul…Read full reviewClose full review
Last winter, my 3 year old dog started showing some aggression towards teenage boys so I decided to look for a dog trainer that could help. I reached out to several trainers, a lot of them charging $50-$100 just to meet the dog, and then didn’t even demonstrate anything they could do for him. Then I went to Taking the Lead. We had a free evaluation and Lindsay took my dog Enzo and showed me what some of the initial training would look like. She spent a lot of time understanding our issues and really showed her knowledge and confidence in helping him. It was a no brainer for me! I also loved the day camp style training where I would learn the skills worked on that day and then have homework the rest of the week. Enzo learned so much and became an expert very quickly! I would recommend Taking the Lead to anyone looking for a dog trainer!
As I've only talked to these wonderful folks, I have not put my babies through this yet. But in the future we will be revisiting the conversation five stars across the board. Everybody is wonderful!
Such an amazing experience! Lindsay runs a top notch program! Sophie Louise had fantastic trainers...Marco, Anthoney and Ally. They worked with her on issues we were having at home and work, and now Sophie is a much calmer, more behaved companion. I feel so much better knowing th…Read full reviewClose full review
Such an amazing experience! Lindsay runs a top notch program! Sophie Louise had fantastic trainers...Marco, Anthoney and Ally. They worked with her on issues we were having at home and work, and now Sophie is a much calmer, more behaved companion. I feel so much better knowing that Sophie is safe at work with me and more behaved at home and in public. Great job guys!! 100% recommend this training program! Worth every single dime!!!
Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.