Dog Training

Animal Behavior and Training Services at the Good Dog Academy

The Spartanburg Humane Society's Good Dog Academy offers a variety of behavior and training services to the Spartanburg community.

There are several levels of group training classes for puppies and dogs as well as private consultations for dog and cat owners who would like one-on-one assistance with behavior problems.

To reach the Animal Behavior and Training department call 864-583-4805, ext. 109, or e-mail us your question.

Why choose the Good Dog Academy?

The SHS Good Dog Academy is built around our commitment to preserving and strengthening the bond between pets and people. You and your pet come first in everything we do!

• We employ positive training methods that work.
  
• Our class schedule meets everyone's needs, with daytime, evening, and weekend options.
• Classes are designed for enjoyment and success.
• Our training center offers a large and comfortable indoor space for both you and your pet.

Our methods

At GDA we use only positive reinforcement based training methods. These methods produce reliably trained dogs while minimizing the risk of potential side effects often seen when more punishment based methods are used. (Read why we do not use punishment based training.)

Positive reinforcement training is powerful and can be used for teaching any skill, from the most basic obedience exercises to advanced behaviors seen in working and performance animals.

In all of our adolescent and adult classes, clicker training is the method of choice. Clicker training is a technique that was initially designed for use with marine mammals and involves a "marker signal" that the dog associates with correct behavior and a reward. Rewards can be food, toys, or even activities the dog enjoys, so this training technique works for any dog.

Clicker training is often faster than regular positive reinforcement training as it is more precise and easier for the dog to understand in a variety of situations.

Our goal  is to help you communicate with your pet more easily and effectively, so that you can enjoy a stronger and richer relationship for life!