Dog Training Classes

Science-based, positive dog training.

Alana Stevenson has taught a wide range of positive dog training classes, including classes for puppies, leash-reactive dogs, and small or shy dogs. With over 20 years of experience and a practice formerly based in Boston and New York, she has led dog training programs at all levels through continuing education, recreation departments, and group partnerships. Alana also works with professionals, shelters, and rescues, and offers custom-designed group classes and workshops upon request.

Currently, group classes are not being offered.

To inquire about positive dog training classes, call 617.921.1224 or
EMAIL ALANA

positive puppy training with Alana Stevenson—black Labrador retriever playing with bubbles

Positive Puppy Training

A foundational class for puppies under 4 months old. Covers attention, recall, sit, lie down, wait, and early socialization with people and puppies. Includes help with housetraining, chewing, play-biting, and jumping. Puppies must have received their second distemper vaccination. First class is for humans only.

three dogs sitting for Alana Stevenson's positive dog training classesPositive Dog Training

For dogs over 3 months old. Focuses on attention during distractions, recall, leash walking, sit-stand-lie down, stay, wait, and the step-back cue. Common issues like jumping, chewing, and play-biting are addressed. First class is for humans only.

positive dog training class for small dogs—cute white mixed breed dog

Little Dogs

Designed for small dogs under 20 lbs (or larger dogs more comfortable with small dogs). Emphasizes calm exposure, attention, confidence building, and gentle handling. Teaches recall, lie down, wait, and safe lifting cues. First class is for humans only.

Three large mixed breed dogs lying together during Alana Stevenson's Shy Dogs training class

Shy Dogs

For shy or cautious dogs. Builds confidence and comfort around other dogs at your dog’s pace. Focuses on positive associations and foundational cues. Behavior consultation required.

mixed breed shepherd mix with tennis ball representing Alana Stevenson's positive training classes for reactive dogs

Reactive Dogs

For dogs who bark, lunge, or overreact on leash. Teaches attention, calm behavior, turning away from triggers, and relaxed leash walking. Behavior consultation and one private lesson required.

Out and About positive dog training class with Alana Stevenson's—two Staffordshire terriers sitting next to each other

Out and About

Held in public outdoor spaces to apply skills in real-world settings. Covers recall, leash walking, attention, wait, and lying down with real-life distractions. Prerequisite: Positive Dog Training or equivalent. Instructor permission required.

Photographs courtesy of Erik Lam.