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Puppy & Dog Training in Valley Forge, PA

Our award-winning dog training programs emphasize positive reinforcement techniques and customized training plans tailored to each dog’s unique needs, ensuring effective and enjoyable learning experiences.

Valley Forge, PA Puppy & Dog Training
Best of mainline today 2024

Where every dog can learn new tricks

Our Programs in Valley Forge, PA

Puppy Start Right Program​

Focuses on proper behavior and play etiquette, and healthy, appropriate socialization skills with both humans and dogs.

Manners & More Training

Comprehensive skill building and reinforcement of healthy habits no matter what age or skill level.

Private Instruction

Personalized instruction designed for you and your dog to have a collaborative learning experience provided by guidance with a certified trainer.

Why BARK U Training Program in Valley Forge, PA

Effective training goes beyond simple obedience commands; it’s about building a strong, trusting relationship between you and your dog. Our training programs are developed and structured to support you and your dog in building this bond.

Designed for Your Dog

Our training programs are tailored to meet the individual needs and learning styles of each dog, as well as the goals of their caregivers.

Pup sitting

Accredited & Respected

Our training techniques are based on positive reinforcement and have been recognized for their effectiveness in promoting lasting behavioral changes.

Pup in training receives a treat

Qualified, Licensed Professionals

The wealth of knowledge and experience of our team ensures that each dog receives the highest quality of instruction and support throughout their program.

Staff posing in the lobby

Comprehensive Educational Framework

From introduction to socialization to advanced skills building, our diverse range of programs covers all stages of a dog’s development, equipping each dog – and their parents! — with the tools to succeed.

Dogs in training

Guidance & Support for Parents

We are committed to you and your dog’s journey even after training sessions end, providing resources, guidance, and community support to help you maintain your dog’s achievements and continued progress.

Commitment to Growth

Frequently Asked Questions

Puppy Start Right Program

The perfect time to begin your puppy’s journey with us is between 10 to 14 weeks old. This age range allows us to make the most of their critical socialization period, helping them grow into well-adjusted and happy pups. We also recommend that your puppy has been living in your home for at least 1 week before starting the program. This way, they can settle in and feel comfortable before diving into all the fun and learning ahead!

No need to worry! Puppies aren’t required to receive their rabies vaccination until they’re 4 months old, so they can still join our Start Right Program. We do ask that your puppy is as up-to-date as possible on other vaccinations to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all dogs. We’re excited to help your puppy get started on their journey, even if they’re still completing their vaccination schedule!

Absolutely! Potty breaks are built into the schedule throughout the day to help reinforce potty training. Your puppy will have plenty of opportunities to take care of business while enjoying their time with us!

Nope! You won’t attend the program with your puppy. Instead, you’ll drop off your dog in the morning and pick up a happy, well-socialized pup at the end of the day! Throughout the program, we’ll keep you in the loop with weekly report cards, adorable photos, and fun videos, so you can track your puppy’s progress and reinforce all those positive behaviors at home. We can’t wait to see your pup thrive!

Nope! Your puppy can join the fun as early as 10 weeks old, and there’s no need for any prior training. We’re thrilled to welcome them on board right from the start! Our goal is to equip you with clear and concise information to help you raise your puppy the right way, setting them off on the right paw!

Manners & More Training

Manners & More is perfect for Puppy Start Right Program graduates, as well as dogs who may not be puppies anymore but are eager to learn. This program is especially beneficial for clients with adolescent dogs looking to improve their manners at home.

Adolescence can be a challenging time for dogs as they navigate the transition from puppyhood to adulthood. Our Manners & More training helps them develop better behaviors, ensuring they grow into well-mannered companions. Whether your pup needs a little extra guidance or you want to teach them some new tricks, this program is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen your bond and enhance their training!

We recommend that your dog completes our Puppy Start Right Program before enrolling in Manners & More, although it is not mandatory. For dogs over 5 months old, an assessment is required prior to enrollment, as group play and socialization are essential elements of the program.

Your dog will enjoy a well-structured schedule that includes playtime with a variety of dogs to encourage socialization, helping to reduce reactivity and destructive behaviors at home. Throughout the day, they will also participate in individual sessions with a trainer to practice their manners and skills.

Nope! You can sit back and focus on your busy day while we do the work for you! You won’t need to attend the program alongside your dog. On the first day, you’ll receive a comprehensive syllabus to follow along with the training. Plus, we’ll keep you in the loop with weekly report cards, fun pictures, and homework assignments, so you can track your dog’s progress and learn how to reinforce positive behaviors at home. This way, your dog can become the best companion to greet you when you come home!

Private Instruction

There are no age restrictions or prior training experience required to enroll! During an initial phone call with a trainer, we’ll discuss your specific needs to better understand how we can assist you and guide you in the right direction regarding training. For each Private Instruction session, we ask that at least one pet parent be present, but we encourage all family members to participate and be involved to ensure the training is as effective as possible.

Each training session lasts one hour, providing us with ample time to work closely with you and your dog. This hour is dedicated to not only coaching your dog but also empowering you with the skills and knowledge needed to reinforce what we’ve practiced together. We’ll focus on tailored techniques that fit your dog’s unique personality and your specific training goals, ensuring that you both make the most of your time together. By the end of each session, you’ll leave feeling more confident and equipped to continue fostering positive behaviors at home!

Training sessions can take place in a variety of settings, including the comfort of your home, a public area, or at BARK U. The ideal location will be determined through a collaborative discussion between you and your trainer, ensuring that we select the most suitable environment for optimal training and learning. Each setting offers unique benefits, and together, we’ll find the perfect spot that aligns with your dog’s needs and your training goals, facilitating the best possible experience for both you and your dog!

Private Instruction sessions can effectively address various behavioral concerns and teach manners within the home environment. One of the key benefits of Private Instruction is that the pet parent is present for all sessions, ensuring that they are actively involved in the learning process. Additionally, the dog learns and practices new behaviors in a familiar and comfortable setting, which often leads to better performance and more natural behavior than in unfamiliar environments.

Private Instruction provides you with the ability to learn alongside your dog. The trainer can adjust your technique(s) in order to maximize the ability of your dog to learn. This approach helps ensure you are confident training your dog when the instructor is not around. Training your dog creates a strong bond between the two of you, which builds a drive in the dog to want to work for you and with you going forward.

Private Instruction is an excellent opportunity to tackle a variety of behavioral issues and enhance basic obedience and manners. Our sessions can focus on key areas such as:

  • Leash Walking: Teaching your dog to walk calmly and politely on a leash, making outings more enjoyable for both of you.
  • Greeting Guests: Helping your dog learn to greet strangers appropriately when they enter your home, reducing excitement and anxiety.
  • Reactive Behaviors: Addressing reactivity towards other dogs, people, or stimuli, fostering a more relaxed demeanor during walks and outings.
  • Basic Manners: Instilling essential commands such as sit, stay, come, and down to ensure your dog behaves well in various situations.
  • Impulse Control: Teaching your dog to wait patiently for rewards and not rush into situations, leading to better decision-making.
  • House Training: Assisting with potty training and establishing a routine that works for you and your dog.
  • Barking and Noise Control: Managing excessive barking and teaching your dog when it’s appropriate to be quiet.
 

Through personalized instruction, our trainers will work together with you to address your specific concerns and help your dog become the well-mannered companion you desire!

Availability is dependent on the trainer. Private sessions are offered throughout the week and weekend. Availability is discussed during your initial consultation with the trainer.

The cost of our training sessions varies depending on the location. On-site sessions at BARK U are priced at $150/hour, while in-home sessions, which provide the convenience of training in your dog’s familiar environment, are available for $200/hour. 

To add even more value, we offer discounted packages that can help you save money while addressing your dog’s training needs comprehensively. Your trainer will work closely with you to discuss the best package options tailored to your specific goals and training desires. Together, we’ll ensure you find the right fit to help your dog thrive!

Penthouse Suite Additional Perks