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Best Buddy Dog Training

Off Leash Dog Training in Ct, Ma, NH, NY, and RI

Training Your Dog with Trust, Not Treats


At Best Buddy Dog Training, we don’t believe in bribing your dog with treats or relying only on tools or forceful methods. True obedience isn’t about control—it’s about connection. Our training philosophy is rooted in building a trusting relationship between you and your dog, not just teaching them to follow commands.

We focus on developing calm, responsive behavior where dogs listen because they want to, not because they're bribed or corrected. Off-leash obedience is the result, not the goal—your dog stays with you because it *chooses* to, even with distractions or at a distance.

Our goals focus on these four things:

  • Temperament: Calm, stable, and confident behavior.
  • Focus: Paying attention, even in chaotic environments.
  • Cooperation: Following your lead with enthusiasm, not resistance.
  • Courtesy: Mutual respect, trust, and emotional boundaries.

Our process involves focusing and developing obedience around five P.R.I.M.E. elements of dog behavior:

  • Proximity: Who controls or has the 'right of way' of personal space.
  • Resources: Anything that can be consumed, carried, occupied, and/or protected, including family members.
  • Interactions: The appropriate timing and style of affection and correction, touch and vocalization, and body language.
  • Movement: Who makes the decision to move or to stay put.
  • Elevation: Who occupies the 'higher ground' (often a major signal about excitement).

Our approach isn't just about teaching commands—it's about creating thoughtful, well-mannered companions who excel in everyday life. True leadership comes from patience, consistency, and love, not gadgets or treats. When your dog listens, it’s because they trust you—plain and simple!

Dog running on treadmill off-leash during obedience training

Dog Training That Actually Works

At Best Buddy Dog Training, we’ve cracked the code for simple, no-nonsense dog training. Forget the confusing jargon or endless tricks; we focus on the essentials that actually shape your dog’s behavior, naturally. Essentials such as:

  • Lie down and stay (because sometimes they need a nap too)
  • Come when called (your dog will think it’s their idea)
  • Go away when told (because personal space matters)
  • Follow and heel (walk like the supermodel you know they are)
  • Wait calmly (patience is a virtue… for both of you)
  • Jump (only when we say it’s time to impress)

These basic commands lay the foundation for a peaceful, cooperative dog and a great relationship. Once you've mastered these, training gets faster, easier, and even more fun—whether your dog’s on-leash, off-leash, or just hanging out at home.

Our secret? It’s not just about teaching commands. It’s about building a respectful, loving relationship, where your dog is not just calm and obedient, but eager to listen. Yes, we promise that’s possible!

White German Shepherd sitting calmly with a kitten during obedience training

Loving Leadership: Not Just a Fancy Term

Success in dog training isn’t about dominance—it’s about loving leadership. Think of it as being the calm, confident captain of your dog’s ship. Leadership based on trust and respect helps you guide your dog’s instincts, curb bad behaviors, and create a partnership that’s as cooperative as it is calm. With the right guidance, your dog will be walking calmly beside you or peacefully relaxing at home, no barking involved.

White German Shepherd practicing calm behavior with Best Buddy Dog Training

With the Best Buddy Dog Training system, you’ll see your dog consistently follow these behaviors:

  • Come running when called (even if there’s a squirrel)
  • Stay where you tell them to
  • Move 6–10 feet away on command
  • Lie down and relax on command for 30–60 minutes (Yes, they can do it!)
  • Walk politely on-leash or off-leash, behind or beside you (the ultimate strolling buddy)
Large black dog following trainer during obedience training in New England

Ready to transform your dog into the best version of themselves? We offer in-home and board-and-train services across Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and Rhode Island. Let’s make your dog the neighborhood’s calmest pup!


Who you are to your dog is EVERYTHING...

- Shawn Hines