Best Paw Forward Puts the FUN in Dog Training Classes

We offer a variety of positive reinforcement dog training classes for all dogs and handlers. What does positive mean? We reward the behaviors that we like/want. We get those behaviors by using methods that do not use fear, force or intimidation. We reward by using praise, treats, toys, etc. Trust and cooperation are the root of our relationship-based training. The result is a happy, well adjusted dog with great manners and a joy to share in life.

Many of our classes are offered at several skill levels. Whether you intend to go on to shows, trials or just want to have a great dog, we have the right fit of classes for you. Everyone learns in a fun, positive and safe atmosphere!

		Puppy Kindergarten For puppies 9 to 15 weeks of age. This six week class teaches you how puppies learn and communicate. You will learn the fundamentals of becoming a benevolent guardian for your dog. Puppy classes include the basics of crate training, house breaking, nipping, chewing, jumping, separation anxiety, basic cues, confidence building exercises and more. There is ample time in each class for the puppies to work on socialization to people, objects, sounds, a new environment and to other puppies, which is a critical part of your puppy’s development. The most important part of raising your new puppy is proper socialization. Each dog is different but, in general, the critical socialization window begins to close somewhere between 15 and 18 weeks of age. Socialization is not the same as exposure. Puppies need to have purposeful, positive experiences with other dogs/animals, handling, noises, people, surfaces and locations/experiences. These experiences need to be safe and happy, and not be rushed. Undersocialized puppies will almost certainly have some level of behavioral problems so please make this a priority for your puppy. If you are not able to attend the week 1 orientation, a link to the YouTube video presentation will be provided for you. Class size is limited. Do NOT bring your puppy to the first class (humans only for the first class!) The date listed is the start date of the class session. Class meets for 6 consecutive weeks at the same time, location and day of the week. NEW CLASS BEGINS Tuesday, December 3rd at 6:15pm in our Pewaukee location. (skip 12/24 & 12/31)

		Shy Dog Shy dogs come in every size, age and breed or mix of breeds. A shy dog needs confidence and training especially designed for them. The goal of this class is to provide techniques to allow you to desensitize and counter condition their fear making scary/new things fun and positive. We work at getting them to actually change their emotional state. Class size is limited! YOU MUST CALL FIRST TO REGISTER FOR THIS CLASS. NEW CLASS BEGINS Monday, December 9th at 7:40pm in our Hartland location. 1 Spot Left!

Here is a listing of our classes:
Our Manners Classes include: Puppy Kindergarten • Basic Manners • Level 2 Manners
Our Dog Sport Classes include: Puppy Agility • Agility 1 • Agility Plus • Agility 2
Agility/Rally Combo 1 • Agility/Rally Combo 2 • Rally 1 • Rally 2 • Flyball 1 • Flyball 2
Our Specialty Classes include: Focus and Control • Shy Dog • Canine Good Citizen
Therapy Dog • Everyday Essentials • Building A Rocket Recall

The date listed is the start date of class. You MUST pre-register for all classes.
All classes meet once a week on the same day and time. Prices and dates subject to
change without notice.

We service Southeastern Wisconsin and have two locations to offer you more classes at your convenience. Click here for directions to both our Hartland and our Pewaukee locations in Waukesha County.

Our Training Philosophy

Training is the most important thing you will ever do for your dog. How you approach training will forever affect the relationship between you and your dog.

We believe in positive, motivational training methods, which have been tested to show great results. We use a reward-based training approach that makes the learning experience fun for the dog and will ensure that your dog will put its "best paw forward", listening to and obeying your cues. We keep our classes fun for both dogs and owners while learning in a friendly, positive environment.

Best Paw Forward is in its 22nd year in the dog training business. We were recognized as a Neighborhood Favorite on Next Door for 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. No. 1 for Best Dog Training on the A-List for eight years in a row and received First Place in the Pet Training category in the 2016 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Top Choice Awards - Best of Greater Milwaukee.