Dog Socialization Classes and Dog Training in Troy

Puppy Training and Group Classes for Every Dog

If you’re looking for dog socialization classes, group or one-on-one training, or focused puppy training, A New Leash on Life delivers results with a calm, structured approach. Whether you’ve brought home a new puppy, adopted a rescue dog, or need help with an adult dog, we help train your dog to build good habits, listen in new settings, and thrive around other dogs.

We offer trusted dog training in Troy, helping families build strong relationships with their canine companions. Our dog training services include group and private sessions for puppies and adult dogs with a focus on socialization, obedience, behavior modification, and confidence-building.

Why Socialization Matters for Every Dog


Socialization is the process of teaching your dog how to feel comfortable and behave well in new environments and with different dogs, people, sounds, and situations. The puppy stage is critical, but it’s never too late to work on social skills, even with an older dog or reactive dog.

Proper socialization helps your dog stay calm in public, respond to commands in unfamiliar places, and avoid overreactions when meeting another dog. It prevents fear-based behavior, boosts confidence, and supports future training success.

Our Dog Socialization Classes and Group Training Programs

We offer structured group classes designed to guide your dog through each step of the training process. Whether your goal is basic manners, community outings, or prepping a future therapy dog, our dog training programs give your dog the tools to succeed.

Group Classes for Puppies

Our puppy classes focus on early development, confidence-building, and positive exposure. We cover:

  • Structured playtime with other pups

  • Name recognition and attention-building

  • Handling, grooming tolerance, and crate training

  • Redirection for behaviors like mouthing and jumping

  • Calm behavior on a leash

  • Puppy socialization with people, surfaces, sounds, and different dogs


We help dog owners build a foundation that supports everything from potty training to polite behavior in public.

Classes begin as early as 8–10 weeks of age and help ensure your pup starts strong.

Training Classes for Adolescent and Adult Dogs

We also work with older and adult dogs who may have missed early socialization or need help adjusting to new environments. Our training class curriculum includes:

  • Calm greetings with another dog

  • Walking past others on a loose leash

  • Controlled introduction to dog parks and public spaces

  • Desensitization to crowds, traffic, and noise

  • Managing bark and lunge behavior


Whether your dog may bark at other dogs or pull constantly in public, we’ll help guide them through every challenge.

Small Group Training with Certified Dog Trainers

Our group training sessions are led by certified dog trainers with experience in puppy, adult, and aggressive dog behavior. We make each training session productive, stress-free, and focused on real progress.We cap each class size to allow hands-on feedback and a safe space for socialization.

One-on-One Training and Private Lessons

Some dogs benefit from private lessons before moving into a group setting. Our one-on-one training helps:

  • Shy dogs who need confidence-building

  • Aggressive dogs or those with high arousal in groups

  • Dogs recovering from trauma or major transitions

  • Families who want more direct instruction


We design every training plan based on your dog’s needs and pace.

If your dog doesn’t thrive in a classroom setting, we offer private training as a solution. From early puppy training to advanced recall and off-leash control, we’ll help shape a calmer, more connected relationship.

Obedience Training and Behavior Modification

Social skills go hand-in-hand with obedience and daily structure. Our programs also include:

  • Sit, stay, come, and down

  • Calm behavior around distractions

  • Structured walks with leash control

  • Preventing behaviors like excessive bark, jumping, and chewing


We use positive reinforcement techniques to reward what we want repeated. Every dog is unique, so we meet them where they are, using a blend of structure and motivation to create change.

How Our Dog Training in Troy Stands Out


You’ll find other options like your local PetSmart, but our difference is in customization and personal attention. Our dog training classes are smaller, focused, and designed for progress—not gimmicks.

We don’t rush results. We don’t use outdated tools. We’re passionate about helping dogs and their families succeed through structured coaching and thoughtful programming.

Whether your goal is a well-behaved dog or a future therapy dog, we’ll help you get there.

Who We Work With

We work with:

  • First-time puppy owners looking to start early

  • Families struggling with a reactive dog

  • Adult dog adopters working through behavior issues

  • Dog owners who want structured obedience training

  • Busy professionals looking for a board and train program

  • Pet parents preparing for future advanced work or competitions


Our dog training services are built for real life and real families.

What to Expect from Our Classes

Every training session is focused, goal-driven, and supportive. We keep communication clear and use hands-on feedback throughout.You’ll learn how to:

Read your dog’s behaviorManage overexcitement or anxietyUse positive reinforcement in everyday momentsSet structure at home and in publicTeach your dog how to stay calm and connected

Our professional dog trainers walk you through the entire training process step-by-step.

Schedule Your First Class


It’s time to start. Whether you have a new puppy or a puppy or have an older rescue, you can build social confidence, structure, and calm communication.

We recommend all dogs begin basic training as soon as they enter your home. If your dog already struggles with public outings or gets overstimulated around other dogs, let’s work on that together.

Our trainers are here to guide, coach, and support every step.

Benefits of Our Dog Training in Troy:

  • Local, personalized support from trusted dog trainers in Troy

  • Flexible scheduling for weekdays and weekends

  • Progress tracking so you know what’s next

  • Structured lessons built around your dog’s needs

  • Safe, respectful learning spaces for every dog


Whether you want to address crate training, reinforce good manners, or prepare for off-leash adventures, we’ll help you get there.

Trust A New Leash on Life to Help Your Dog Succeed

We’ve helped hundreds of dogs and families find balance, build trust, and improve daily life. We believe every dog deserves structure, communication, and support.We work with certified dog professionals who understand behavior, development, and motivation. We’re not here to push quick fixes—we’re here to build lasting change.We believe in:

  • Safe dog training grounded in real behavior science

  • Real coaching for both the dog and handler

  • Proven methods that guide better behavior

  • Respect for every canine’s pace, history, and ability


We’re proud to offer some of the top training options in the region. We’re even prouder of the trust our community gives us to work with their pets.

Take the First Step Today

Ready to get started? Ready to build confidence, structure, and communication with your dog?Visit A New Leash on Life and schedule your first consultation or class. Our team will help you choose the right path, whether it’s a structured puppy class, focused obedience, or private coaching.Let’s work together to help your dog socialize, behave, and grow into a calm, obedient dog you can take anywhere.Your dog is capable. Your goals are achievable. Let’s build the plan to get there.

FREE VIDEO COURSE MASTERCLASS

BUILDING A

CONFIDENT, RESPECTFUL,

AND WELL-MANNERED PUPPY

The comprehensive (&free) video course for building a well-mannered puppy that genuinely wants to listen to you! Featuring over 2 hours of content across 25 videos, offering step-by-step guidance covering every aspect of creating the perfect puppy from A to Z!

⬇️ WHERE SHOULD WE SEND YOUR FREE PUPPY COURSE?⬇️

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SEE WHAT PAST CLIENTS SAY

"Passing dogs isn't an issue anymore! We can go on bike rides and play off leash at the park!"

"It makes life with a dog easier. I don't question if I can take him somewhere, I know he won't lash out"

We do off-leash walks, bike rides, park play with others, and restaurant visits. The dogs behave perfectly—totally worth every penny.

Christina K.

Highly recommend him, you won't regret it! Worth every penny and then some. I'm not kidding when I tell you we were in SHOCK the first week we had them back. We are doing off leash walks, biking, going to the park playing off leash with other people and dogs around.

Theo is a 5 year old pit lab mix and had issues with pulling and lunging at people while walking on the leash. Marvel is an 11 month old Australian cattle dog. She had issues pulling on walks, lunging and nipping at people, barking non-stop and would bother you for hours to play. We decided to do the 6 week board and train program with Vince and we could not be happier with the results. We are doing off leash walks, biking, going to the park playing off leash with other people and dogs around, even going to restaurants with the dogs and they have been PERFECT.

Shelby S.

Libby's reactivity eventually started affecting my 2nd dog and that’s when I knew it was time to reach out to a dog trainer near me.

She spent 6 weeks with Vince and the transformation she’s made is incredible. We’re able to pass many dogs and people on our walks and outings now with little to no acknowledgment whereas before she was extremely reactive. He also helped build her confidence and just overall helped shape her into a more obedient dog.

Our relationship has completely changed for the better and I owe it all to A New Leash on Life! I'm so immensely grateful to have found them!

Erin and Brandon F.

Izzy was extremely reactive and restless for the first 8 months before we got Vince onboard.


He used his assessment of Izzy along with specific goals that we discussed to transform her into a confident, comfortable and happy dog.

He went above and beyond to share his knowledge with us regarding reactivity, boundary setting, and activities that we can do with Izzy to help her regulate. Vince is thorough, communicative, knowledgeable, and more than anything, truly loves dogs. I would highly recommend Vince to anybody who wants to have a better relationship with their dog.

RECENT TRANSFORMATIONS

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What past clients are saying

"It makes life with a dog easier. I don't question if I can take him somewhere, I know he won't lash out"

"Passing dogs isn't an issue anymore. We can go on bike rides and play off leash at the park"

"We are doing off leash walks, biking, going to the park playing off leash with other people and dogs around, even going to restaurants with the dogs and they have been PERFECT. The difference in them is night and day. Worth every penny and then some."

We cherish our dogs; but living with a challenging one can suck!

❌DIFFICULT TO TAKE ON WALKS

❌DOESN'T LISTEN WHEN ASKED

❌REACTIVITY TOWARD DOGS

❌UNCONTROLLABLE WITH GUESTS

❌AGGRESSION

❌ANXIETY

❌RESOURCE GUARD OBJECTS

❌GENERAL RUDE BEHAVIOR

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  • Curabitur venenatis orci sed auctor sollicitudin.

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OUR PROGRAMS

4-WEEK BOARD AND TRAIN

Investment: $3,750. All equipment is included ($350) as well as unlimited private lessons.

WHO QUALIFIES:

👉At least 6 months of age.

👉Displaying "knucklehead" behaviors like jumping, puppy nipping, chewing, digging etc..

👉Dogs without behavioral issues. Behavioral dogs will require a 6+ week program.

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

✅ $350 of equipment.

✅Unlimited private lessons.

✅This program insures solid on-leash obedience.

✅Cover all of the fundamentals

✅Building all necessary obedience behaviors.

✅Practicing obedience in different environments (downtown areas, parks, stores, outdoor cafes etc.)

6-WEEK BOARD AND TRAIN (most popular option!)

Investment: $4,997. All equipment is included ($500) as well as unlimited private lessons.

WHO QUALIFIES:

👉At least 6 months of age.

👉Dogs in need of rehabilitation with mild cases of: separation anxiety, reactivity, resource guarding,

stranger danger, fear in new environments, confidence building etc.

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

✅ $500 of equipment.

✅Unlimited private lessons.

✅Allows us enough time to build a solid relationship and create new habits in your pets, as well as work through their behavioral issues without demanding too much too soon.

✅Everything in the 4-week program plus
✅Solid off-leash obedience.

✅Nurturing healthy mindset.

✅Focus on building healthy relationship through interactive play

(we will build games like fetch, tug, flirt pole etc)

8-WEEK BOARD AND TRAIN

Investment: $6,497. All equipment is included ($500) as well as unlimited private lessons.

WHO QUALIFIES:

👉At least 6 months of age.

👉Dogs in need of mild to severe rehabilitation: bite history, intense reactivity, intense anxiety, fighting housemates etc.

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

✅$500 of equipment.

✅Unlimited private lessons.

✅This is the best program for most dogs as it gives us enough time to create strong habits, as well as undo deeply engrained unwanted habits.

✅Everything in the 6-week program plus more time to practice and rehearse newly formed habits in a variety of environments.

CANINE

IMMERSION PROGAM

6-WEEK IMMERSION PROGRAM

Welcome to our exclusive 42-day program, where your dog is incorporated into our lifestyle throughout the entirety of their stay. You have the opportunity to join in for lessons during their program.

Immersed in our daily routine, your dog will enjoy multiple walks, engaging training sessions, stimulating playtimes, and invigorating bike rides, ensuring a holistic approach to their care and enrichment. This provides the necessary time and consistency to effectively address undesirable behaviors, nurture positive habits, and establish a robust, enduring foundation for you and your dog.


WHO QUALIFIES:

👉At least 6 months of age.

👉Dogs in need of obedience.

👉Dogs requiring rehabilitation for mild cases of separation anxiety, reactivity, resource guarding, fear of strangers, discomfort in new environments, and confidence-building.


WHAT'S INCLUDED:

✅ All training equipment.

✅4 private lessons (arranged once dog returns home.)

Lifetime access to our exclusive client-only community,

featuring over 60+ videos to help you maintain your dog's training for life.

✅This timeframe affords us ample opportunity to cultivate a strong bond, establish new routines with your dog, and address any behavioral concerns methodically, without imposing excessive demands prematurely.
✅Solid off-leash obedience.

✅Nurturing healthy mindset.

✅Focus on building healthy outlets through interactive play

(games like fetch, tug, flirt pole etc)

Committed to helping our clients succeed!

Vince's journey into dog training was deeply influenced by his years of active involvement in rescue initiatives. The inception of A New Leash on Life - School for Dogs was fueled by a passionate commitment to curbing the influx of dogs into shelters. Witnessing the heartbreaking reality of overflowing shelters and the unfortunate euthanization of countless dogs each year inspired him to take action.

In an industry where regulations are scarce, Vince distinguishes himself through his extensive training and certification. Holding certificates from renowned institutions such as Tarheel Canine and the Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers, having completed two week-long apprentice programs under the mentorship of the globally acclaimed Blake Rodriguez of Dream Come True K9, as well as mastering a week long apprentice program with world-renown Method K9, Vince ensures that your beloved pet receives expert care and guidance. You can rest assured that your dog is in capable hands with an experienced trainer dedicated to their well-being.

WHAT'S YOUR BIGGEST

ISSUE RIGHT NOW?

I HAVE A

CRAZY PUPPY!

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MY DOG

DOESN'T COME WHEN CALLED.

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BARKS AT

DOGS ON WALKS...

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- All Rights Reserved