Business Details
34 Years
experience
Expert Dog Training & Daycare Services
Canine University has been dedicated to transforming the relationship between dogs and their owners since 1992. Our mission is to inspire people and dogs through compassionate, knowledge-driven training methods that foster mutual respect and trust. We specialize in scientifically sound practices, utilizing positive reinforcement techniques to ensure both dogs and handlers learn effectively. With a team of experienced instructors, including CPDT-certified professionals, we offer comprehensive training programs tailored to meet the unique needs of each family. Our approach emphasizes the emotional and cognitive capabilities of dogs, ensuring they learn expected behaviors without fear or punishment.Over three decades, we've helped countless clients achieve well-behaved companions, offering guidance from puppyhood through advanced obedience. Our commitment extends beyond the classroom, providing resources like free online courses to support long-term success. We value transparency in our methods and maintain a client-centric focus, ensuring every interaction builds confidence and strengthens the human-dog bond. The feedback from our graduates consistently highlights the lasting benefits of our training, with well-mannered dogs becoming cherished family members for years.
Services
Group Classes
Private Training
Puppy Kindergarten
Beginners Class
Good Manners
Advanced Obedience
Dog Daycare
Puppy Overnight Camp
Free Online Mini Course
Outdoor Class
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in dog training and behavior.
- Our team includes CPDT-certified professionals with extensive animal training expertise.
- We use scientifically sound, positive reinforcement methods for effective learning.
- We offer comprehensive training packages with proven long-term results.
- Our instructors provide personalized guidance to address specific behavioral goals.
Associations and certifications
- Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT)
Services
Group Classes
Our group classes use positive reinforcement to teach obedience, socialization, and problem-solving skills. Designed for puppies and adult dogs, these sessions build foundational behaviors while fostering trust between pets and owners. Classes run weekly with flexible enrollment options.
Private Training
Personalized training sessions address specific behavioral challenges and goals. Tailored programs focus on individual needs, offering targeted solutions for complex issues or accelerated progress in a private setting.
Puppy Kindergarten
This program develops basic obedience and social skills for puppies aged 8-18 weeks. Structured playtime and guided training establish lifelong habits, focusing on leash walking, commands, and appropriate interactions with people and other dogs.
Dog Daycare
Our supervised daycare provides safe socialization and exercise for dogs. The environment encourages positive play while trained staff monitor interactions to ensure comfort and prevent behavioral issues during extended stays.
Free Online Mini Course
This complimentary resource covers housebreaking strategies, crate training, and setting boundaries. Designed for new dog owners, it offers practical tools to establish routines and build confidence in managing common challenges.
People
Gerilyn Bielakiewicz
Lead Instructor/Co-Owner
CPDT-certified trainer with 30 years of experience, author of seven dog training books, and former Karen Pryor Academy faculty member. Specializes in positive reinforcement techniques and behavior consulting.
Paul Bielakiewicz
Co-Owner
Manages business operations and dog daycare programs. Co-author of 'The Everything Golden Retriever Book,' with expertise in canine socialization and facility management since the company's founding.
Questions
What training methods do you use?
We use positive reinforcement techniques with clickers and treats to create stress-free learning experiences for dogs and handlers.
Do you offer classes for all dog ages?
Yes, we provide puppy kindergarten (8-18 weeks) and adult beginner classes, with progression to advanced obedience levels.
How long are training packages?
Packages range from 8 to 16 weekly sessions, with each class lasting one hour to ensure consistent skill development.
Is family participation encouraged?
We welcome all family members to attend classes and participate in training to ensure consistent handling techniques at home.
Do you provide post-training support?
Graduates receive ongoing guidance through our free online mini course covering housebreaking, crate training, and behavior management.
Reviews (5)
Jess C.
May 11, 2022
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We paid $190 (back about 5-6 years ago) for the first level training. We went to the first 3 classes and all we did was constantly stuff the dogs with "high value" treats. From there it was teaching them to sit - but nothing else. Waste of time and money. Back then I left a very honest review on Yelp but it's been flagged as one that doesn't count toward their overall rating. I recommend you read the reviews yelp doesn't recommend for any business but you will see ours there.
Troy F.
Dec 28, 2021
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We registered our puppy for the Puppy Kindergarten and Good Manners courses, and found the experience to be "Fine" at best. Rolling registration means every class is functionally the same, so once you've mastered "down" and "leave it" you're just waiting for the puppy playtime. You can learn everything this class can offer by watching a YouTube video and going to a dog park. We were lucky to bump from the Kindergarten to Manners course halfway through the package and it was a great move.
The Manners course, while still being functionally identical week over week, covered some distracted walking on leash and off leash commands. While the staff was helpful, there wasn't much opportunity for guided training or helpful adjustments to our methods, so it still boiled down to us figuring out training on our own. Avoid Puppy Kindergarten, watch some training videos on your own, and wait for the Good Manners or above classes.
The Manners course, while still being functionally identical week over week, covered some distracted walking on leash and off leash commands. While the staff was helpful, there wasn't much opportunity for guided training or helpful adjustments to our methods, so it still boiled down to us figuring out training on our own. Avoid Puppy Kindergarten, watch some training videos on your own, and wait for the Good Manners or above classes.
Xio Lopp
Dec 25, 2021
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We rescued a 2 yr old extremely reactive dog that we weren't sure we would be able to keep. Gerilyn gave us the tools and support to make him a lovable and gentle part of the family! She was extremely responsive to our needs and problems. It did take time to see progress but we are so happy with the results after months of hard work. If you're willing to learn from Gerilyn and work with your dog you will see results!
Tapani Ronni
Dec 21, 2021
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This is a great dog training place. They know their stuff and have a very positive attitude overall. I have taken two classes there with my pup.
Michael Crouch
Jun 28, 2021
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What a disappointment. We were charged $150 for initial lesson. No real instruction is provided. My puppy slept the entire 60 minutes. Just an intake questionnaire and sales pitch about how fabulous their school is. Notes & training videos were not delivered as promised. In fact - when pressed - Gerilyn sent us notes on the WRONG DOG. There's a lack of professionalism here. Keep searching!
