Business Details
25 Years
experience
Expert Dog Training for All Breeds in Utica
K9 Obedience Training, founded in 2001 by certified dog trainer Larry LeoGrande, has dedicated over two decades to transforming canine behavior and strengthening human-dog relationships. With formal training from Owen Tobers Amsel Training Kennels and certifications as a Professional Dog Trainer and Police K-9 Trainer, we specialize in customized obedience programs for dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments. Our services span puppy socialization, advanced competition training, behavioral problem-solving, and specialized protection work, grounded in a deep understanding of canine psychology.We prioritize individualized attention, offering one-on-one sessions, group classes, and virtual training to accommodate diverse client needs. Our commitment to excellence is evidenced by our track record of success with challenging cases, participation in national competitions, and partnerships with law enforcement training programs. We guarantee ongoing support beyond course completion, ensuring long-term success for every dog-owner partnership.
Services
Puppy Training
Basic Obedience
Behavioral Problem Solving
1-on-1 Training
Competition Training
Tracking
Protection Training
Schutzhund Training
Virtual Training
Board Training
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- 23+ years of proven experience in canine behavior
- Personalized training programs for all dog temperaments
- Certified by industry-leading training institutions
- Comprehensive support from initial consultation to advanced training
- Proven success with challenging behavioral cases
Associations and certifications
- AKC Examiner
- Amsel Training Kennels
- Certified Police K-9 Trainer
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer
What people say
Tailored solutions for behavioral issues
Patient and knowledgeable instruction
Proven competition training success
Lifelong behavioral improvements
Comprehensive puppy socialization
Services
Puppy Training
Our puppy training program focuses on early socialization, basic obedience, and behavioral foundation building. We address housebreaking, crate training, teething, and socialization with people and other dogs. The 8-week course includes personalized solutions for chewing, play biting, and separation anxiety while teaching essential commands like sit, stay, and recall.
Behavioral Problem Solving
We specialize in resolving complex behavioral issues including aggression, fear biting, possessiveness, and reactivity. Our approach combines temperament evaluation, customized training plans, and owner education to address root causes. Techniques focus on positive reinforcement and establishing clear communication between dogs and owners for lasting behavioral change.
Competition Training
For competitive handlers, we offer specialized Schutzhund and protection training programs. Our services include temperament evaluation, title-specific skill development, and advanced tracking instruction. We prepare dogs for AKC Ring competitions and international Schutzhund titles, with a proven track record of producing champion working dogs.
Board Training
Our intensive board training program provides immersive obedience instruction in a controlled environment. Each session includes temperament assessment, personalized training plans, and daily progress tracking. The minimum two-week program covers basic to advanced obedience, behavioral correction, and owner transition training for seamless implementation at home.
Virtual Training
We offer remote training solutions through virtual sessions that bring expert guidance to your home. This service includes real-time instruction via video conferencing, personalized training plans, and progress tracking. Ideal for busy owners seeking flexible scheduling while maintaining professional oversight of their dog's development.
People
Larry LeoGrande
Owner/Trainer
With over 23 years of experience, Larry LeoGrande is a certified professional dog trainer and police K-9 instructor. He graduated from Amsel Training Kennels in 2003 and has competed nationally with multiple Schutzhund title holders. His expertise spans behavioral modification, competition training, and working dog development.
Questions
What training methods do you use?
We use balanced training methods combining positive reinforcement with clear communication. Our approach adapts to each dog's temperament, focusing on building trust while establishing firm boundaries through consistent, humane techniques.
Do you offer boarding services?
Yes, we provide boarding with structured training during stays. Dogs receive three daily field walks, 20-minute play sessions, and meals in a secure environment designed to reinforce training consistency.
Can you handle aggressive dogs?
We specialize in behavioral modification for aggression cases. Our process begins with temperament evaluation followed by customized training plans focusing on desensitization, positive reinforcement, and establishing respectful boundaries.
What's included in the free consultation?
The initial consultation assesses your dog's temperament, discusses specific behavioral challenges, and creates a customized training plan. We'll review your goals, answer questions, and recommend appropriate training packages without pressure or obligation.
Do you train specific breeds?
We work with all breeds and mixes, tailoring programs to each dog's natural abilities and temperament. While specializing in German Shepherds and working breeds, our methods effectively adapt to any breed's unique characteristics.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Elizabeth Lehner
May 12, 2022
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We have brought our last 3 dogs to Larry. He has a tremendous wealth of knowledge and adjusts his training techniques to each individual dog. I would highly recommend him to anyone!
Amy Wells
Dec 24, 2020
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Larry is very knowledgeable and knows what he is doing! He is honest and tells you exactly what he feels and i think this is very important. I'm glad we found him.
Chuck Baye
May 15, 2019
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This is the best place to get your dog trained. We noticed an immediate change in our puppies actions from day one. We liked it so much we that we signed up for the advanced course. Our dog did very well in the basic course. Larry is very knowledgeable in his training technique. You can tell he has been doing this for a very long time. So if you need your dog trained this is the place to go and you can usually tell we people go back multiple times and he has a waiting list.
Georgia Moore
Apr 24, 2019
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Larry is amazing! We noticed a change in our dog after the first class and he has only gotten better each week. Larry helped us build our confidence, learn the best training methods and helped us bond with our pup! We will come back to Larry always, and can't wait to keep going on our training!
William Whitehill
May 14, 2017
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I just(4/8/17) completed the 8 week course with my German Shepard Puppy Honey. It was the smartest thing I have ever done, after having raised 9German Shepards in the last 50 years.slow learner! My VET, who recommended Larry was right."he's a pro, that knows his stuff." He knows dogs and people as well. After all, he trains us as well. Now it's up to me to keep Honey growing. A+
