Dog Squad

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Professional In-Home Dog Training in Oakland

Dog Squad has been dedicated to transforming the lives of dogs and their owners through professional in-home training since its founding. Our team of certified trainers brings decades of combined experience in addressing obedience challenges, behavioral issues, and specialized training needs across all breeds and ages. We employ humane, science-based methods that emphasize communication between owners and their dogs, ensuring long-term success and strengthened bonds. With over 45 East Bay veterinarians referring clients to our programs, we have established ourselves as a trusted leader in canine education and problem-solving.

Our commitment extends beyond initial training through lifetime phone and email support for all clients. We specialize in resolving complex issues such as aggression, anxiety, and destructive behaviors while offering structured programs like puppy preschool and NoseWork classes. Our mission remains focused on improving canine well-being through education, believing that properly trained dogs lead happier, healthier lives while bringing greater joy to their human companions.

Services

In-home Dog Training Puppy Training Programs NoseWork Classes Behavioral Consultations Aggression Management Obedience Training Leash Walking Instruction Housebreaking Solutions Separation Anxiety Treatment E-Collar Training

Highlights and features

Certified trainers with over 20 years of combined experience in canine behavior
Proven success resolving complex issues like aggression and anxiety
Lifetime phone and email support included with all training packages
Humane, science-based training methods focused on owner-dog communication
Recommended by over 45 East Bay veterinarians for professional training needs

Associations and certifications

Canine Trade Group
International Association of Canine Professionals

What people say

Solved aggression problems Lifetime support available Recommended by veterinarians Effective behavioral solutions Professional certified trainers

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Services

In-home Dog Training

Our personalized in-home training programs address obedience challenges and behavioral issues through one-on-one sessions with certified trainers. We teach owners effective communication techniques while working directly with their dogs in familiar environments. This approach ensures consistent results across various real-world scenarios and distractions.

Puppy Training Programs

Structured puppy development programs focus on early socialization, basic obedience, and housebreaking fundamentals. Our trainers work with young dogs to establish good habits while teaching owners proper reinforcement techniques for long-term success in raising well-adjusted adult dogs.

Behavioral Consultations

Specialized evaluations identify root causes of complex behavioral issues like aggression, anxiety, and destructive tendencies. We develop customized treatment plans combining direct dog training with owner education to create lasting solutions for challenging cases.

NoseWork Classes

These interactive classes develop dogs' natural scent detection abilities through structured exercises. The program builds confidence and mental stimulation while improving focus and obedience through engaging, reward-based activities that strengthen owner-dog partnerships.

E-Collar Training

Our certified specialists utilize modern e-collar technology for advanced obedience training. This method provides precise communication at a distance while maintaining humane standards, particularly effective for off-leash reliability and complex behavioral modifications.

People

Les Sloane

Owner/Head Trainer

Certified by Canine Trade Group after extensive hands-on training, Les brings decades of practical experience to dog behavior modification. Her passion for canine welfare drives personalized training approaches that empower owners to build better relationships with their dogs.

Steve Bettcher

Founder

Retired IACP Certified Dog Trainer with over 20 years of experience in obedience and agility training. Developed successful programs for complex behavioral cases while maintaining strong partnerships with local veterinary professionals.

Questions

What areas do you serve for in-home training?

We provide in-home services throughout Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, including Oakland, Berkeley, San Leandro, Fremont, and Walnut Creek.

Can you help with severe dog aggression issues?

Yes, our certified trainers specialize in resolving aggression problems through customized behavioral modification programs combined with owner education and support.

What training methods do you use?

We employ humane, science-based techniques focusing on positive reinforcement and clear communication between owners and their dogs during training sessions.

Do you offer ongoing support after training?

All packages include lifetime phone and email support to help maintain training success and address any future challenges that may arise.

Are group classes available?

We offer drop-in obedience classes twice monthly for current clients as supplementary practice to reinforce skills learned during private in-home training sessions.

Reviews (5)

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Sarah Coddington

May 08, 2022 Report

Les is amazing! We have two dogs, one 5 years old and the other just over a year. When we brought in the puppy (a GSD rescue) it was obvious we needed to be reminded how to train a dog who was smart, motivated and going to be HUGE. Les came to our home for the evaluation and immediately it was apparent her love of dogs. Both our pups were all over her and she allowed their enthusiastic kisses with laughter and joy.

When it was time to get to work, Les' expertise was amazing to watch! Both our dogs responded immediately to her guidance and she was very patient with us. The dogs got A's, the people maybe C's. Because of Les' training, we have dogs that are a joy to be around. We HIGHLY recommend Les and the Dog Squad Dog Training!

Suzy Farnworth

Mar 13, 2022 Report

Les is amazing. Our first "getting-to-know-you" lesson included a gentle introduction of Rosie. Sitting on the floor and meeting her at her own pace. Our conversation included important things like how Rosie got her name and her history - which can be challenging with a rescue! We went for a walk with me as the human lead - and Les was able to observe where she could teach me some modifications. Les brought a starmark collar and shorter lead that made a huge difference in our learning.

Back at home, free of most distractions, we were able to learn and practice "place" (see picture). Of course- we had some playing to do too! What I appreciate most about Les' style - is that she met me and Rosie where we were. She gave us actionable things to work on - and we practiced whilst she was with us - to give minor corrections and tips. Rosie and I have been practicing every day - and she is much happier and calmer out on our walks knowing that she does not need to be the Alpha girl! I look forward to our continued relationship and learning with Les.

Jeannie Wong

Jan 26, 2022 Report

Les is personable and attentive. If you're looking for someone to work with and care for your furry friend, as if they were their own, you've found the right person. Les is a wealth of knowledge and invested in both you and your dog.

Heidi Mead

Jan 14, 2022 Report

Easy to give 5 stars here. Working with Les on my pups behavior issues has been so informative and game changing for my dog and me. She is the best and very intuitive, kind, and thoughtful. Glad we found her.

Josh Liebeskind

Jan 14, 2022 Report

Les has been amazing to work with! We knew our dog needed more training, but as a 6-year-old rescue set in her ways, we didn't know how much she could improve. Les was such a pleasure to work with and reassured us every step of the way, even when we texted her at night in complete frustration. We cannot believe the strides our dog has made and are complete converts to Les and her style of training!