Train. Bond. Thrive.
Pet Alliance Training Classes provide a structured environment that benefits both you and your dog by fostering a stronger relationship and improving long-term behavior. Whether you are working with a new puppy or a rescued adult dog, these classes offer several key advantages: strengthened bond and trust, essential puppy socialization, effective communication, problem prevention, reduced stress and anxiety, and mental and physical stimulation.
Puppy Preschool is a five-week foundational program focused on building trust and confidence through positive reinforcement. Puppies engage in proactive socialization with novel objects and sounds, learn essential skills like name recognition and hand targeting, and participate in supervised play. The class also includes expert guidance on potty training, biting, and stress-free handling to ensure a well-adjusted start for your new companion.
Puppy Kindergarten is a five-week course that focuses on mastering essential cues under distraction, developing practical life skills, and preventing common behavioral issues. Guardians will also learn how to strengthen their bond with their puppy through clear communication and cooperative care techniques.
All Training Classes take place at our Sanford Shelter, located at 2800 County Home Road.
Why Train Your Puppy? Imagine arriving in a new world where you don’t speak the language, your family is unfamiliar, and your natural instincts often get you into trouble. It’s a lot for a puppy to navigate. Training is the bridge that closes that gap. By teaching your puppy our expectations through rewards rather than reprimands, you aren’t just teaching “commands”—you’re building a shared language. This foundation of clear communication eases anxiety, fosters deep trust, and gives your puppy the confidence to thrive in a human world.
Meet Our Trainers!
Taylor’s lifelong love of animals evolved into a professional career in NYC, where she began as a dog walker and pet sitter. Driven to understand the “why” behind animal behavior, she completed a rigorous apprenticeship with Amanda Gagnon Dog Training in NYC, eventually earning her title as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). Taylor’s primary focus is helping pet guardians cultivate deep, lasting relationships with their pets through empathy and science-backed, humane training methods. Whether helping clients navigate basic or complex behavioral challenges, she remains committed to a force-free approach To ensure that the animals and humans she works with receive the most current and ethical support, Taylor prioritizes continuing education. She has completed specialized mentorships in Canine Fear and Impulsivity and Cat Behavior Consulting through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. Taylor is a proud member of the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, and the Pet Professional Guild.
Joelle’s lifelong passion for animal welfare is rooted in a deep-seated interest in canine behavior and science-based training. After an early career in childcare, she transitioned her professional focus to the animal care industry, gaining foundational experience in daycare and boarding. To further her expertise in humane, evidence-based methods, Joelle joined a positive reinforcement training facility, where she earned her CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed) certification. With a background that spans from foundational puppy socialization to navigating complex behavioral challenges, Joelle is dedicated to utilizing modern, force-free practices to enhance the lives of shelter animals. As a Behavior and Training Coordinator, she is committed to continuous learning and staying at the forefront of industry standards to ensure the highest level of care for both the dogs and the community she serves.
David joins Pet Alliance with a deep passion for canine behavior science and evidence-based training. As a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. His journey in the industry began with specialized rescue programs focused on behavior modification, and he has since spent years refining his diverse skills through group classes and personalized one-on-one coaching for complex behavior issues. A self-proclaimed “behavior nerd,” David loves diving into the neurobiology of how dogs learn to understand the “why” behind their actions. David uses rewards-based methods to strengthen the bond between dogs and their humans. However, he believes successful training is as much about the human as it is the dog, focusing on building genuine connections with guardians through practical, real-life applications. He excels at tailoring his coaching style to each family’s unique lifestyle and background, ensuring that the training process feels natural, sustainable, and empowering for everyone involved. While David enjoys working with all breeds, he has a special heart for nervous and fearful dogs, finding immense gratification in watching them grow in confidence and form long-lasting bonds of trust with their guardians. Whether teaching foundational manners or addressing significant behavior modification, he is dedicated to creating a supportive, science-forward environment. When you work with David, you can expect a blend of expert insight, practical tips, and a genuine love for the craft.
Puppy Resources
Puppies 101: A Guide To Your New Companion
Puppies 101: A Guide To Your New Companion
Click HereCrate Training
Crate Training
Click HerePotty Training
Potty Training
Click HereNipping & Chewing
Nipping & Chewing
Click HereSocialization
Socialization
Click HereProblem Prevention
Problem Prevention
Click HereF.A.Qs
At Pet Alliance, we exclusively utilize reward-based training methods rooted in the latest behavioral science. To ensure a safe, humane, and low-stress environment for all participants, we do not permit the use of aversive tools, including prong collars, choke chains, e-collars, or slip leads. Our curriculum focuses on proven, force-free techniques that build a foundation of trust and cooperation between you and your dog.
Yes. All pet owners must provide proof that puppies have current Distemper and Bordetella vaccinations.
If the puppy is over 16 weeks of age, proof of Rabies vaccination is also required.
Up to two people per puppy can attend class, including children. Attendees can be swapped each week, but it’s important that those who don’t attend are informed of the material covered to ensure consistency.
Absolutely! We love involving the whole family in the training process. To make sure everyone (puppies included!) has a successful session, we ask that:
An adult remains in control of the dog at all times.
Children 16+ may handle the leash, while younger children (5–16) are welcome to help with cues and rewards.
Since classes are an hour long and involve a lot of listening, please ensure your child is able to remain seated and non-disruptive. If you feel the environment might be a bit too much for them, it may be best to leave them at home so you can get the most out of your training time.
- A treat pouch (not plastic bag or in pocket)
- Treats that are not used at home
- A standard 6 foot or 4 foot leash (no retractable leashes)
- A comfortably fitting collar and/or harness (no slip leads, choke chains, or prong collars)
Since our classes build on each other gradually, we are unable to offer make-up dates.
We strongly recommend ensuring you can attend all five weeks to provide your puppy with a consistent learning foundation.
If you do miss a class, please email training@petallianceorlando.
org. We will send you the materials covered so you can practice at home.
- Yes! We are proud to have a bilingual team. Currently, we offer private training sessions in Spanish, while our group classes are currently held in English.
- When booking your appointment or purchasing a training package through our website, you will be prompted to select a language preference. Simply indicate that you prefer Spanish, and we will pair you with a fluent trainer for your 1-on-1 sessions.
- Looking Ahead: We are officially launching our training program in Spring 2026. While Spanish-language services are currently focused on private lessons, we are actively working to grow the program to include Spanish-language group classes in the near future.
- We are launching our new training program with a primary focus on setting the foundation for our youngest learners! We currently offer:
- Puppy Preschool: For puppies ages 2–4 months.
- Puppy Kindergarten: For puppies ages 4–6 months.
Our mission is to provide Central Florida with comprehensive, knowledgeable resources for every stage of a pet’s life. Keep an eye on our schedule as we continue to expand!
