Dog Training

ABOUT OUR TRAINING PROGRAM

Here at the Ramapo Bergen Animal refuge we offer a variety of training classes and programs. These classes are open to anyone who would like to attend, not just RBARI adopters. Training classes are a great way for owners to build a bond with their dog, whether this dog is a new addition to the family or has been a long time member. Our training philosophy is based on positive reinforcement methods and leadership training.

Our trainer, Karyn Montuori, has 8 plus years of dog training experience working with and rehabilitating shelter dogs. She has worked successfully with training concerns ranging from basic obedience and general manners to aggression, fearfulness, separation anxiety, dog aggression, etc. Karyn is certified through the Animal Behavior College and APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers). Here at RBARI, we run continual group classes for Basic Obedience and Puppy Training Classes. Click on either class for more information including the next start dates and times. If we do not have any classes running that are suitable for your pet or your schedule, please contact us anyway, and we will be more than happy to refer you to other trainers in the area.

RBARI also offer Private lessons and Behavior Consultations/Evaluations that are scheduled around the owner’s schedule. Private lessons are open to any dog or puppy. They cover a wide range of training and behavior problems or can be used to teach basic manners and obedience. We even have a few clients that have chosen to teach their dog basic agility! Please read on for more information about what we offer.  

Click Here for Training Registration Form 

Basic Obedience Group Classes Click here for current brochure and schedule. This 6 week course designed to teach owners and their dogs all of the basic obedience commands and loose leash walking. 

Classes are kept small, about 6 students and their dogs. Each course will go over basic obedience commands: heel, sit, sit/stay, down, down/stay, loose leash walking and come. Plus a few additional bones tricks are taught as well. Dogs are also taught basic manners such as not to jump up on people and proper dog to dog social skills. Group class is for dogs that lack basic training and/or have minor behavioral problems and are aged 4 months and up. If you are unsure if your dog is appropriate for group class, please contact Karyn at [email protected] and she will guide you to the most beneficial program for your dog’s success. Owners must present proof of vaccination (distemper combo, rabies and bordatella) upon registration. Classes are held 1 day a week for 1 hour, running a total of 6 weeks. The first week is an orientation and informational training seminar for the owners without the dogs present. Lessons 2-6 are held with the dogs.

Rowdy Rovers Roundup - This class is basic obedience and behavior remodification training designed for dogs with behavioral issues as basic as dog aggression, but extended to social issues with people as well. Click here to download the Rowdy Rovers brochure.

Puppy Classes ~ A five week mini course for puppies 2 months through 4 months. This course covers basic manners, dog to dog socialization (in a safe environment), preventative training (to ward off potential future training concerns), and basic obedience skills.

Private Lessons ~ Private lessons are custom designed specifically to the needs of the owner and their dog. Private lessons primarily take place in the owner’s home, but can be done at the shelter as well. Private lessons are for dogs and puppies of any age. Private training is ideal for dogs with major behavioral issues or owners with hectic schedules.  We can cover just about any area of training in private lessons. We are qualified to deal with minor behavior problems such as mouthing, jumping, barking & housebreaking, as well as major problems such as aggression, dominance, phobias & fears, and other problem behaviors.  Owners must present proof of rabies vaccination prior.  After an initial meeting, we will develop a specific "training package" for you and your dog.

Pre-Adoption Consult And Training ~ This consult is designed to assist families in their decision to adopt a dog and can assist them in answering the following questions: Is a dog the right pet for us? What breed is best suited for our families lifestyle? Should we adopt an adult or a puppy? How do we set up our home for a dog? What is the best means of training for a dog? Making the right fit for your family’s lifestyle and laying a foundation for training prior to the dog entering the household makes the transition into pet ownership a pleasant one for all involved.

Consultation / Evaluation ~ Have a meeting with the trainer to discuss specific problems you are having with your dog /puppy and develop a recommended course of action to solve the problem. Owners may bring their dogs in for a training consultation and behavior evaluation. This may help owners understand and find cause for behavioral problems. Suggestions for a possible course of training can be made. Evaluations can last anywhere from an hour on up so that we may determine exactly what is at the root of your pets behavior. Please contact us at 201-337-5180 or email at [email protected] for more information.