Business Details
27 Years
experience
Professional Dog Training Services in Aptos, CA
At Living with Dogs, we are dedicated to fostering successful relationships between dogs and their owners through science-based, reward-driven training methods. Since 1999, our Santa Cruz County-based team has specialized in creating a positive learning environment that prioritizes trust, communication, and mutual understanding. Our programs are designed to accommodate diverse schedules and needs, offering flexible self-scheduling systems that allow clients to attend classes at their convenience across multiple locations. We strictly adhere to humane training ethics endorsed by the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, ensuring all techniques are non-coercive and free from physical punishment. With over two decades of experience, we have successfully graduated thousands of dogs and owners, providing structured pathways for skill development through topic-based classes in puppy training, obedience, and dog sports.Our facility features modern training spaces equipped to support both foundational learning and advanced activities like agility and scent work. We maintain transparency in our operations, offering clear pricing structures and detailed policies to ensure clients feel confident in their investment. Our team combines professional expertise with genuine passion, continuously refining our approaches to reflect the latest advancements in canine behavior science. By focusing on practical, achievable outcomes, we empower owners to become effective trainers while enriching their dogs' lives through mental and physical stimulation. Our commitment to quality extends to maintaining clean, safe training environments and fostering a supportive community where both dogs and humans can thrive.
Services
Puppy Training
Obedience Classes
Agility Training
Scent Work
Private Training
Dog Sports
Family Dog Training
Treibball
Online Training
Disc Dog
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- 21 years of experience in science-based dog training
- Flexible self-scheduling system works with busy lifestyles
- Multiple training locations across Santa Cruz County
- Non-coercive, reward-based training methods guaranteed
- Topic-based classes allow customized skill development
Services
Puppy Training
Structured puppy training programs focus on early socialization, basic obedience, and behavioral foundation building. Our science-based curriculum addresses house training, bite inhibition, and confidence development through positive reinforcement techniques. Classes accommodate puppies aged 8-16 weeks with strict vaccination requirements ensuring safe social environments.
Agility Training
Comprehensive agility training develops coordination, focus, and teamwork between dogs and handlers. Our obstacle courses feature jumps, weave poles, and contact equipment designed to enhance physical fitness and mental stimulation. Programs cater to both recreational participants and competition-bound teams with progressive skill development from beginner to advanced levels.
Private Training
Customized private training addresses specific behavioral challenges and personalized training goals. Certified instructors create tailored behavior modification plans for issues like reactivity, anxiety, or advanced obedience training. Sessions combine practical skill development with owner education to ensure consistent progress in real-world environments.
Scent Work
Scent detection programs harness dogs' natural olfactory abilities through structured search and identification exercises. Classes develop focus, confidence, and mental stamina while providing enrichment for dogs of all ages and physical abilities. Curriculum follows industry standards for competitive scent work certification preparation.
Family Dog Training
Progressive obedience training builds reliable manners and communication for everyday living. Topic-based curriculum covers leash handling, recall, impulse control, and environmental management. Flexible scheduling allows mixed-ability households to train together while addressing specific challenges like door manners or guest interactions.
Questions
What training methods do you use?
We use science-based, reward-driven methods focusing on positive reinforcement without physical punishment or coercion.
Are vaccinations required for classes?
Yes, all dogs must provide proof of vaccinations and giardia test for puppies before participating.
How does the flexible scheduling work?
Our online calendar allows booking classes up to 12 hours in advance with options to reschedule as needed.
What areas do you serve?
We operate in Santa Cruz County with training centers in Aptos, Capitola, and Westside Santa Cruz locations.
Do you offer multi-dog household discounts?
Our flexible plans accommodate multiple dogs with no additional fees for households training more than one dog.
Can I try a class before committing?
We offer virtual facility tours and sample video training sessions to help determine if our programs match your needs.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Mike B.
Mar 19, 2022
Report
Mike is a phenomenal instructor. Kind, friendly, responsive, and patient. In just a few sessions, he's helped us better understand our dog and work *with* her natural curiosity and energy. If you need a trainer, Mike is the guy. Fo sho.
Dave Martone DMarty
Mar 17, 2022
Report
Mike is so kind and patient with Waffles. I'm learning so much. Highly recommend LWD for dog training.
Linda C.
Feb 23, 2022
Report
We have had a few classes with Mike and I highly recommend it. He teaches you how to teach your dog. ( you would think all dog training does but you would be wrong). He uses the latest techniques and is great with the dogs. Looking forward to more learning!
Lulu L.
Jan 17, 2022
Report
Living with Dogs to my rescue! I desperately needed a training program to help my boy learn to be a gentleman around other dogs. My big girl Roxy learned her manners under Sandy years ago, so I was eager to see how Mike, who now owns the business, was going to handle things. He's fantastic! Love him. Super nice, knowledgable, confident and competent. I've also greatly appreciated how thoughtful he's been in making sure that everyone has a positive experience. It's clear that he always has his eye on everything that's going on, and his specific feedback is right on target. My boy's impulse control and tolerance around other dogs has greatly improved. Thank goodness! Oh, and scheduling and cancelling classes is a breeze.
