
New Skete's Dog Trainers were recently featured on ABC News. Click here to watch!
At New Skete we offer a course in standard, AKC type obedience, incorporating the values of our monastic environment with the teaching of the standard obedience exercises both on and off leash. The objective is to teach dogs the heel, let's go, sit, stay/wait, place, come, down and extended down-stay in a manner that enhances the overall relationship between owner and dog. We also attempt to help owners with any behavioral difficulties they may have mentioned to us. The training is guaranteed for the life of your dog: we are always available to help owners and dogs who have gone through our training. Our aim is to make it possible for owners to include their dogs fully in their lives, to help them realize the dream of what such a relationship can be. Our method, described at length in our books, How To Be Your Dog's Best Friend, The Art of Raising a Puppy, and Divine Canine, employs a philosophy of praise, fairness and discipline, set against a background of patience, repetition, and dedication. Additionally, we have stayed current with the latest advances in training methodology and have incorporated the gentle use of remote collars to expand the possibilities of the training.
The course runs for three weeks. This includes boarding and exercise, daily training, and a final interview with Brother Christopher, which explains in detail all of the training the dogs receive in the course. This final session also includes a practical demonstration of the dog's skill, as well as hands on work with the owner, geared towards helping them maintain the training once their dogs return home. An extensive written report is also provided for the client covering the main points of the training.
The current cost for training is $2695.00 + NY State sales tax. If you are interested in enrolling your dog in the program, please use this webform. We need to have your application electronically on record in order to keep track of your dog's place on our waiting list.
**Please be aware that there is usually a wait of at least several months to get a dog into the training program. If your need for a trainer is more urgent and cannot wait, please consult the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP).
