Training
Training Class Registration Form
Whiskers University has training and classes for all stages of your dog’s development. We offer private consultations and training, classes, and other on-site training options. Whiskers trainer, Kristie Swan, is dedicated and passionate when it comes to improving the way people and their dogs live together. Kristie has advanced designation as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer. Her reward based training style is geared toward creating success at both ends of the leash.
A brief overview of training options:
Private Consultations: Whether you are looking for guidance with a new puppy, a recently adopted rescue or problematic behavior issues, a private consultation can help. The appointment may take place at Whiskers or in your home.
Puppy Academy: Whiskers offers early socialization classes and the AKC S.T.A.R Puppy curriculum. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behaviorists encourages early socialization to give puppies the best opportunity at a well-adjusted life. The S.T.A.R Puppy program teaches early basic skills and lays the groundwork for a successful adult training program.
Prep School: These classes are for puppies and dogs (6 months or older) just getting started with classroom work. The basics include, but are not limited to sit, down, stay, coming when called and leash walking. This class progresses based on the needs and abilities of the group.
Finishing School: This picks up where Prep School ends. Previous skills are sharpened and new skills are learned. This lays the groundwork for earning the Canine Good Citizen certification.
Boarding School: This is another option for the time challenged. Whiskers gives you the opportunity to have your dog trained while boarding at our facility. Your dog will receive all the luxuries of our boarding program while your training goals are met. **A private consultation with owner and dog is required in order to optimize the success of this program.
Electives: Fun or Focused workshops for you and your dog to enjoy. We will cover subjects such as Loose Leash Walking, Coming when called, K9 Nose play and more. ***These classes will be posted as they become available***
Specialty classes and workshops will cover a variety of skills and topics.
Training Class Registration Form
Kristie Swan CPDT
Originally from the east side of the state and a graduate of Central Michigan University, Kristie Swan has lived in Grand Rapids since the early nineties. Kristie spent 25 years in the radio business and also volunteered for several local rescues while also fostering and rehabilitating dogs for adoption. National statistics show that 86 percent of dogs in shelters are said to have behavior issues. Largely this is a matter of no training or poor training methods. This is the reason Kristie began studying canine behavior and training.
Kristie's training methods strive to enhance the human/canine relationship. She plans to bring the highest level of training in the Grand Rapids area to Whiskers Resort & Pet Spa. She will tailor a training plan to meet each individual’s needs and abilities.
Kristie shares her home with three black cats and two dogs. Olivia is a rescue mix and Wendigo is a Chesapeake Bay Retriever. She loves training and has dedicated her life to animal behavior.
