Hounds & Humans

11/09/2024

Sign up for our October STAR Puppy class!

Sign up link in comments ⬇️

19/07/2024

14/06/2024

Spots now available for our 4 week long July puppy class! Perfect opportunity to get in some positive training with your puppy this summer without having to commit to a 6 week class! Limited spots available, sign up today!

12/06/2024

Rhodie and Dusty are working on learning to hang out together. Dusty is an older guy who doesn’t love puppies in his face, and Rhodie is an excitable young guy who just wants to be friends! Their humans are doing an excellent job at taking he relationship at Dusty’s pace!

04/06/2024

We love learning about lots of dog related things- even if it’s not strictly training related! Nutrition is something that is important in so many aspects of our pets life. Can’t wait to dig into the !!! Artemis and I know what we will be doing in our spare time this week!

18/05/2024

Working on how to dry our feet AND our chins!

11/05/2024

Last chance to get in on this class. ONE SPOT LEFT. Starting THIS Wednesday!

Due to high demand for this class I’ve added one additional class date! I have ONE spot left! Claim it while you can!

Wednesdays @7:15 May 15- June 5
Mackay-Jaycees Park in Grand Rapids

Semi-private class for dogs with big feelings This class could be right for you if your dog:
*Over reacts to seeing other dogs or people when out on walks by barking, lunging, growling, snapping
*Has fear, frustration, or aggression when seeing people/dogs
*Struggles to take treats when out on walks (doesn’t seem to be food motivated, or is too overwhelmed to eat)
*You want to connect with and support your dog so they feel safer, and you can both enjoy walks more!

Trainer Alyssa is certified in BAT (Behavior Adjustment Training) which is a positive training method for dogs who may bark, lunge, snap, snarl at other dogs. This method focuses on utilizing the environment to help your dog get space, sniff, and feel more comfortable and confident!
*BAT effectively teaches social skills and helps dogs and humans live in community.
*BAT will give you a way to walk your dog that is more like a meditation or dance than a battle.
*BAT nurtures security and trust between the dog and their human family.
*BAT is humane
*BAT gives animals agency, i.e., maximum control of safety and other significant events in their lives.

This class will be limited to two dogs (semi-private) and will run for 4 weeks. Classes will take place outside at various locations around Grand Rapids, the first class will take place at MacKay-Jaycees Park (near 28th street and Kalamazoo). Cost of class includes a FREE 15 ft long leash that we will use during training. Cost: $200

Fill out this form to register: https://forms.gle/p8VWA5K3qSDXXURe6

09/05/2024

Due to high demand for this class I’ve added one additional class date! I have ONE spot left! Claim it while you can!

Wednesdays @7:15 May 15- June 5
Mackay-Jaycees Park in Grand Rapids

Semi-private class for dogs with big feelings This class could be right for you if your dog:
*Over reacts to seeing other dogs or people when out on walks by barking, lunging, growling, snapping
*Has fear, frustration, or aggression when seeing people/dogs
*Struggles to take treats when out on walks (doesn’t seem to be food motivated, or is too overwhelmed to eat)
*You want to connect with and support your dog so they feel safer, and you can both enjoy walks more!

Trainer Alyssa is certified in BAT (Behavior Adjustment Training) which is a positive training method for dogs who may bark, lunge, snap, snarl at other dogs. This method focuses on utilizing the environment to help your dog get space, sniff, and feel more comfortable and confident!
*BAT effectively teaches social skills and helps dogs and humans live in community.
*BAT will give you a way to walk your dog that is more like a meditation or dance than a battle.
*BAT nurtures security and trust between the dog and their human family.
*BAT is humane
*BAT gives animals agency, i.e., maximum control of safety and other significant events in their lives.

This class will be limited to two dogs (semi-private) and will run for 4 weeks. Classes will take place outside at various locations around Grand Rapids, the first class will take place at MacKay-Jaycees Park (near 28th street and Kalamazoo). Cost of class includes a FREE 15 ft long leash that we will use during training. Cost: $200

Fill out this form to register: https://forms.gle/p8VWA5K3qSDXXURe6

09/05/2024

Start your summer on the right foot with training basics for your puppy!

This 4 week, outdoor class is geared toward dogs under a year old and will be hosted at various parks around Central/SE Grand Rapids.

We will learn basic skills such as sit, down, come, leash walking and appropriate guest greetings. We will also learn how to focus in a distracting environment (outside), train a place behavior, discuss common puppy challenges and their solutions.

PM us with questions or fill out this form to register: https://forms.gle/gPAKS3GjfFnqSN4dA

We are a team of three certified dog trainers who love working with pets and their owners. We offer a wide variety of services including; puppy training, basic obedience training, service dog...

08/05/2024

CLASS FULL!

For dogs who may lunge, growl, bark, snap, at other dogs- this will be a great tool!

See our previous posts for more info on BAT!

07/05/2024

Hounds & Humans Summer Training Classes!

5/13- 4 week BAT Class for reactive dogs- ONE SPOT LEFT in the 6:45 class!
Learn and apply the basics of the BAT technique to help build confidence with your reactive dog. MacKay-Jaycees Park Mondays 5/13-6/10 (Skipping 5/27)
Register here: https://forms.gle/p8VWA5K3qSDXXURe6

5/22- 4 week Puppy Class
Join us for some outdoor puppy training at various parks in Central/SE Grand Rapids. 5:45 on Wednesdays 5/22- 6/12
Register here: https://forms.gle/gPAKS3GjfFnqSN4dA

5/22 & 6/19 - CGC Drop-in Class
Prep your dog for their Canine Good Citizen test- or come take the test if you are ready!
5/22 Location- Lowes Garden Center on 28th/E Beltline
6/19 Location- TBD
Register here: https://forms.gle/qjL8G17DZUqodmJEA

Message us with questions!

01/05/2024

Enjoyed the sunshine while practicing teaching some BAT leash skills for our upcoming BAT class! Hobbes was an excellent student! Hobbes sometimes likes to pull his people- and he’s STRONG- so we tested the leash belay system with him and the humans loved it! Thanks Erich and Mirissa!!

25/04/2024

So proud of our Wednesday STAR puppy grads!

25/04/2024

•Day-Time Walks: $25/ half hour
•Walk & Train: $40/ half hour
•Day Train: $100/session (45 minutes)
•Service & Therapy Dog Training Field Trips: $125/ session

Talk to us about options! DM through IG or FB, OR shoot us an email: [email protected]

22/04/2024

*UPDATE- 5:45 FULL- one spot left in the 6:45 class!*

New Class alert!- Special pricing for founding class members!! (pricing will go up for the next round of these classes)

Semi-private class for dogs with big feelings This class could be right for you if your dog:
*Over reacts to seeing other dogs or people when out on walks by barking, lunging, growling, snapping
*Has fear, frustration, or aggression when seeing people/dogs
*Struggles to take treats when out on walks (doesn’t seem to be food motivated, or is too overwhelmed to eat)
*You want to connect with and support your dog so they feel safer, and you can both enjoy walks more!

Trainer Alyssa is certified in BAT (Behavior Adjustment Training) which is a positive training method for dogs who may bark, lunge, snap, snarl at other dogs. This method focuses on utilizing the environment to help your dog get space, sniff, and feel more comfortable and confident!
*BAT effectively teaches social skills and helps dogs and humans live in community.
*BAT will give you a way to walk your dog that is more like a meditation or dance than a battle.
*BAT nurtures security and trust between the dog and their human family.
*BAT is humane
*BAT gives animals agency, i.e., maximum control of safety and other significant events in their lives.

This class will be limited to two dogs (semi-private) and will run for 4 weeks. Starting Monday, May 13 and going through June 10 (skipping Memorial Day). There will be a 5:45pm class and a 6:45 pm class. Classes will take place outside at various locations around Grand Rapids, the first class will take place at MacKay-Jaycees Park (near 28th street and Kalamazoo). Cost of class includes a FREE 15 ft long leash that we will use during training. Cost: $200

If these dates/times don’t work for you but you are still interested, please reach out! We may be able to create a custom semi-private class to fit your schedule- and if not, we can work on the same skills in a private one-on-one setting.

Please fill out this application or email us with questions! (https://forms.gle/E5J5DpzEMvEDiXQU9)

09/04/2024

LOVE this new inclusive offering for the reactive dogs in our community! Alyssa and Artemis already grabbed one of the first spots! Thank you Your Pets Naturally - Grand Rapids!!!

Update: FULL… stay tuned for more opportunities! ❤️

✨NOW OFFERING... 🐕 Private Shopping Experiences!✨

Do you have a dog who would love to be spoiled with their own shopping experience but struggles when around other dogs or humans?

This 𝗙𝗥𝗜𝗗𝗔𝗬, 𝗔𝗣𝗥𝗜𝗟 𝟭𝟮, is their opportunity to do just that! We'll have a 𝟳:𝟬𝟬 𝗽𝗺 and 𝟳:𝟯𝟬 𝗽𝗺 session open for TWO lucky pups in which the store will be all theirs for 25 minutes (siblings are also welcome to join)!

Simply call us at 616-600-6439 to reserve your spot for just $25 (which will be applied as a store credit during their visit)!

*This post will be updated when spots are filled.*

05/04/2024

WELCOME BACK, SPRING BREAKERS!

Let’s get back in to training, and prep our dogs for their Canine Good Citizen Certifications!

Want to train your dogs, without the 4-6 week commitment? Here’s an opportunity to work on those specific skills you’re looking for, focusing on CANINE GOOD CITIZEN CERTIFICATION.

Meet up with us and our working dogs, as we prepare you to take the AKC CGC (You tell us when you’re ready!).

Opportunities are bi-weekly. We’ll rotate locations, but keep an eye on your email/txt for location changes.

*Please note that payment is required to solidify your spot ONE WEEK before meet ups. There will be NO refunds for no-shows (emergencies considered, of course).

*If there is not at least 3 dogs signed up, we will not be holding class.

*Everyone is welcome, and spots are not limited. We do prefer you and your dog have taken at least one, if not TWO classes and know their basics!

*Email or PM us with questions / interest! [email protected]

Sign up for NEW teams (have not attended a drop in previously): https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSexcBywr125iR3GfUBbA3v9K3EOvZDwb4Q5_vFJRqYz9B-CGQ/viewform?usp=sf_link

Sign up for teams who have done a drop in with us before: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1PDdN0q5zNcpTN2SXjPwiJlmgbXpW0ODb-2VgsXIS1k8/viewform?edit_requested=true

01/04/2024

So thankful to have this amazing practice in our community!

While the clinic specializes in reactivity, you don’t need to have a reactive pet or a referral to come.

25/03/2024

Just picked up our Beer City Dog Biscuits order! Cant wait to give these out to our incredible STAR Puppy class graduates over the next few weeks!
If you don’t know Beer City Dog Biscuits- check them out! Their Brew Bakers are all individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and they make incredible and high quality treats!

21/03/2024

Well isn’t this just the cutest idea!! We LOVE enrichment and what a fun way to do it!

🥚🐾🥚🐾🥚🐾🥚🐾🥚🐾🥚🐾🥚🐾🥚🐾

Announcing Grand Rapids Pit Bull Alliance Enrichment Egg Hunt Fundraiser!

Sign up today! A pair of GRPBA Bunnies will scatter 20 treat-filled eggs in your yard the evening of March 30th for your pup to sniff and search out on Easter Morning. Each treat will be sealed and placed inside a plastic egg. Options for treats are included, in addition to an option for you to provide your own treats if your pup has food restrictions and on a special diet.

All money raised from the Enrichment Egg Hunt will be going directly into our Veterinary Fund (Winston Fund) to help pay for veterinary costs for pets in need and families facing hardship.

Register by using the online form link below, we will contact you after we receive your registration to confirm.

Payment can be made via Venmo pets or Paypal [email protected]

A little bit on Sniffy games like our Enrichment Egg Hunt and the benefits they offer: Not only do these types of games and exercises exercise your dog’s muscles, but also their nose and their brain. It is mentally stimulating! Sniffy games and scent work have been shown to promote logical thinking skills as well as helping dogs stay active by giving them a fun job to do. They are shown to build confidence, to help with canine reactivity, to reduce anxiety, and more.

When dogs use their sense of smell, it is tiring for them because they are using a large portion of their brain to do the work. A Dogs' sense of smell and their olfactory system is up to 100,000 times better than humans- they can literally pick apart scents individually. Not only is their sense of smell extremely important for their well being, it is how they see and interpret the world.

●This is limited to Grand Rapids addresses only.

Please email [email protected] with any questions

Link to register your pup 🦮

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScZLsMDd617wN1XjC3g1J2EppdeerI2nRa_d65yjJXi0dYwFg/viewform?usp=sf_link

20/03/2024

Class is back in session! We have a new round of puppy class starting in April, grab your spot today!

11/03/2024

Deadline to sign up is tomorrow!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSexcBywr125iR3GfUBbA3v9K3EOvZDwb4Q5_vFJRqYz9B-CGQ/viewform?usp=sf_link

Want to train your dogs, without the 4-6 week commitment? Here’s an opportunity to work on those specific skills you’re looking for, focusing on CANINE GOOD CITIZEN CERTIFICATION.

Meet up with us and our working dogs, as we prepare you to take the AKC CGC (You tell us when you’re ready!).

Opportunities are bi-weekly, starting Tuesday, March 19th at 6PM. We’ll rotate locations, but keep an eye on your email/txt for location changes.

*Please note that payment is required to solidify your spot ONE WEEK before meet ups. There will be NO refunds for no-shows (emergencies considered, of course).

*If there is not at least 3 dogs signed up, we will not be holding class.

*Everyone is welcome, and spots are not limited. We do prefer you and your dog have taken at least one, if not TWO classes and know their basics!

*Email or PM us with questions / interest! [email protected]

09/03/2024

We had the opportunity to do some one on one training with Pluto (a recent STAR Puppy graduate) to discuss body language and appropriate play. Pluto and our working girl Saylor became fast friends!

08/03/2024

Sign up link is now live!
We’ve had lots of interest in this class and can’t wait to meet those of you who sign up!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSexcBywr125iR3GfUBbA3v9K3EOvZDwb4Q5_vFJRqYz9B-CGQ/viewform?usp=sf_link

Want to train your dogs, without the 4-6 week commitment? Here’s an opportunity to work on those specific skills you’re looking for, focusing on CANINE GOOD CITIZEN CERTIFICATION.

Meet up with us and our working dogs, as we prepare you to take the AKC CGC (You tell us when you’re ready!).

Opportunities are bi-weekly, starting Tuesday, March 19th at 6PM. We’ll rotate locations, but keep an eye on your email/txt for location changes.

*Please note that payment is required to solidify your spot ONE WEEK before meet ups. There will be NO refunds for no-shows (emergencies considered, of course).

*If there is not at least 3 dogs signed up, we will not be holding class.

*Everyone is welcome, and spots are not limited. We do prefer you and your dog have taken at least one, if not TWO classes and know their basics!

*Email or PM us with questions / interest! [email protected]

02/03/2024

Let’s help out our working girl, Saylor, to win the top spot in her group this week! If we keep at #1 through Thursday (3/7), she’ll move on to quarterfinals!

Contest timeline posted for those who are curious.

Voting is FREE and takes all of 5 seconds. Please share this with all of your friends and family, and let’s get a GR DOG on the cover of MODERN DOG!

💙💙💙

https://americasfavpet.com/2024/saylor-f617

02/03/2024

CHECK THESE AWESOME OFFERINGS OUT!!

Saylor and I have our eyes on the PATIO PREP! We can’t wait!

More fun drop-in training classes with The Heeling Shepherd happening at our store!👇👇👇

🐾EXPLORE - This class will teach you how to bring out the explorer in your shy/insecure pup. Teach your dog “Doggy Parkour,” “Find it!” and “Touch” for a sure-fire confidence boost!

👉 4:15 - 5:15 Saturday, March 2

🐾PATIO PRIMER - the patios are going to open up soon, guys. Train your dog so they’re the talk of the outdoor patio this summer — but in a good way this time 😬🤣 Teach your pup advanced skills like “down stay” and “place”, and master the art of loose-leash walking.

👉4:15 - 5:15 Saturday, March 9

Spots are limited- save yours today for just $25!

Check out theheelingshepherd.com to learn more - 🔗 in c0mments!

01/03/2024

Want to train your dogs, without the 4-6 week commitment? Here’s an opportunity to work on those specific skills you’re looking for, focusing on CANINE GOOD CITIZEN CERTIFICATION.

Meet up with us and our working dogs, as we prepare you to take the AKC CGC (You tell us when you’re ready!).

Opportunities are bi-weekly, starting Tuesday, March 19th at 6PM. We’ll rotate locations, but keep an eye on your email/txt for location changes.

*Please note that payment is required to solidify your spot ONE WEEK before meet ups. There will be NO refunds for no-shows (emergencies considered, of course).

*If there is not at least 3 dogs signed up, we will not be holding class.

*Everyone is welcome, and spots are not limited. We do prefer you and your dog have taken at least one, if not TWO classes and know their basics!

*Email or PM us with questions / interest! [email protected]

01/03/2024

Congratulations to our Thursday STAR puppy class graduates! We had such a fun time learning together over the last 6 weeks. I adored working with these pups and their humans! (See the last 3 photos for the outtakes 😂)

27/02/2024

Our March STAR puppy class has filled! We are so excited to work with this wonderful group of pups! We will be adding an April session of our popular STAR puppy course soon so keep an eye out!