Awesome Paws Dog Training Services
Contact Us Today!
**Please complete this form to get started on your journey with your dog to a better trained future.**
The time to start correcting unwanted dog behavior begins today! We look forward to working with you!
Training Your Dog
Does your dog have behavior issues that need to be resolved? Do you wish to have your dog become the ideal companion? Here at Awesome Paws, Michelle LeBlanc is your guide to improving both your dog’s skills and your skills as a dog handler with the direct approach to solving specific issues or challenges you may be facing.
Awesome Paws Dog Training Service was inspired by Michelle’s first working dog, Casko, who was her K9 partner while working for the Vermont State Police. While Casko is no longer with us, his legacy remains with the generations of dogs trained by Michelle.
Dog training occurs at our facility specifically designed for that purpose on Gage Street in Bennington, VT. We can also work at your home or do training in real world situations such as at the park, dog friendly businesses, or on the street. Hours currently are by appointment only for individual training sessions.
Meet the Trainer
Michelle LeBlanc has worked over 20 years devoting her life to training dogs, 11 years as a State Police handler and assistant K9 trainer. Michelle’s experience has inspired her to begin a non-profit organization dedicated to training service dogs for service personnel and first responders, called Vermont Paws and Boots. Our same dog training experience and expertise is now available to the general public.
Services Include:
- Puppy Training
- Basic Obedience
- Heeling and Walking
Michelle’s awards and specialized training include the following:
K9 Related Awards
- Inducted into National K9 Hall of Fame – 2019
- National K9 HOF Committee – 2018 – 2022
- National K9 HOF President – 2019 – 2022
- Vermont Police Canine Association President – 2009 – 2011
- Vermont Police Canine Association Vice President – 2006 – 2009
- Two-time recipient – K9 Team of the Year
- Two-time recipient – Tracking Team of the Year
- Four-time recipient – Dedicated Service Award
- Recipient – Lifesaving Award
- Recipient – K9 Apprehension Award
- Multiple Public Service Awards (Federal, State, Local)
Specialized Training
- Combat Medic – U.S. Army
- Military Police Investigations – U.S. Army
- Interdiction Course – VSP
- Interview & Interrogation Course – VSP
- Advance K9 Tracking Course – VSP
- Key Elements to Training Service Dogs – 2016
- The Dog Training Secrets – 2018
- Learn, Practice, Master, and Begin Again workshop – 2019
General Training Information
Prior to your first visit, make sure to fill out our registration form. Contact Michelle if you have any trouble accessing this form.
Training sessions are one hour long. Please arrive promptly at the start of your time period at our training facility at 89 Colgate Heights, Bennington, VT. Bring with you your dog’s favorite toy and/or a good supply of your dog’s favorite treat. Payment in full is due when you arrive if not prepaid.
Your session will follow a structure. We start the hour by discussing the training goals for the day and reviewing any concerns since the last training. From there, we will do goal-specific exercises and training for about 40 minutes. The final 5-10 minutes will be discussing “homework” for your next training session.
Puppy Obedience Package
$360 for a six-week group package
$450 for six one-hour individual lessons
For puppies under 6 months of age. Begin the socialization process for you and your puppy. Classes are 6 weekly sessions and puppies will be grouped according to size for a fun, informative and safe experience. We will discuss pros and cons of equipment, brain games, and basic manners for both humans and dogs. Private or group classes available.
Basic Obedience Package
$450 for six one-hour individual lessons
A well-behaved dog is a safe and welcome addition to your family. Training helps you to efficiently communicate with your dog to build trust and confidence. Learn the building blocks to a well-adjusted dog such as sit, stay, leave it, heel, here, break (drop) and recall while having fun on our indoor and outdoor agility courses designed to build these essential skills. 6 weekly sessions available in either a group or individual format.
Advanced Obedience Package
$450 for six one-hour individual lessons
A course designed to continue our basic obedience training. In this next 6-session class we will refine the commands previously learned to enhance communication and trust with your dog. Offered as either individual or group sessions.
Private Individual Lessons – 1 Hour
$85 – Single Session | $450 – Six Week Package
Group Lessons
$240 – Four Week Package | $360 – Six Week Package
“Out on the Town” Package
$240 for four one-hour lessons
All must complete our basic class first and have a social dog.
Now more than ever, our dogs have become more than just pets. They are our companions and an integral part of the family. This package is designed to teach you and your dog to safely navigate downtown areas or a trip through a store. Join our 4-week group class where we will visit dog friendly businesses in the area and learn proper dog etiquette and safety while in public. The first session will be at the training facility, and the other three sessions will be out in public.
Payment Options
Payment in full is required at your first appointment with either cash, check, or Venmo.
Military and First Responder Discount
We are pleased to offer a 10% discount for active and retired military, and first responders. Contact me, and I will send you a link to pay the discounted rate.
Thank you for your support!
If you have enjoyed our services and would like to, we would appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave a review on either Google or your favorite social media platform.
Testimonials
Working with Michelle has been amazing! Mollie is much improved after just two sessions. In addition to training Mollie, I am learning to be a much better handler as well. I highly recommend Michelle to assist you in making your dog the best companion possible!