Effective, fun & humane

dog training.

Based in Rutland, Vt.

Train your dog effectively and humanely, and have a great time in the process.

Let us help you conquer your canine challenges.

We love them like family, so why not teach them like family?

Hi there! I’m Als,

Certified Professional Dog Trainer & Behavior Consultant and I want to help you raise the most incredible carefree canine companion. Successful dog training begins when puppy first arrives home (or even before) and you really can do it without being overwhelmed or resorting to forceful tools like prong, choke or shock collars. Let Mountainside Mutts show you how.

Puppies

Weeks 8 to 16

Puppies

Weeks 8 to 16 are a crucial time in the training journey but potty & crate issues can sap some of the new puppy joy. Let us help you rekindle the puppy passion.

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Adolescents

6 Months

Adolescents

Teenage dogs can still be jumpy and mouthy but now they’re “stubborn” too. Let us help you transform them into respectable adults.

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Adults

You can teach new tricks!

Adult Dogs

Rescued an older dog? Lackluster manners? Unwanted behaviors like guarding or barking? We’ve got humane solutions for you.

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Service Dog Training

Our dogs can do incredible things. Save time and money by task training your own canine companion.

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Puppy Problems?

Puppies are our specialty. We offer:

Crate training
Potty training
Foundation obedience
Socialization
Puppy Start Right Group classes
Private Coaching
Dog School (our daycare plus program)

Teenage Delinquent?

We can help you overcome typical teenage issues like:

Jumping
Pulling on leash
Barking
Chewing
Biting
Not coming when called
Separation distress

Private coaching or group classes, we offer something for all devoted dog handlers.

Behavior Modification

We are the only certified dog behavior consultant in Rutland, Vermont. Using humane, science-based techniques, we can help you solve behavior issues such as:

Resource guarding
Aggression towards people
Aggression toward other dogs
Leash reactivity
Problems with other household pets

Questions? Provide a few details of your situation & we can reply by email.

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recommends that only reward-based training methods be used for dog training, including the treatment of behavior problems. If your dog trainer recommends prong, choke, e-collars, and leash corrections, ask them why they don’t agree with the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

Why work with Mountainside Mutts rather than other dog trainers in Rutland County, Vermont?

Because we’re different. We offer day training, private coaching, and group classes to help you raise an incredible companion dog, but unlike other dog trainers in the area, we only use modern, humane & force-free dog training methods. Constantly telling a dog what not to do is tiresome. Wouldn’t it be easier if you didn’t have to nag them all the time? Teaching a dog what you want them to do is far more effective and fun.

Your dog is an individual and training should be customized to your wants and needs.

At Mountainside Mutts, our approach to dog training sets us apart in Rutland, Vermont. We proudly embrace modern, force-free training methods, steering clear of outdated techniques and aversive tools that some other trainers in the region still rely on. Choose from our diverse offerings, including private in-person coaching, group lessons, or virtual sessions.

When you entrust your dog’s education to us, you’re not just signing up for training sessions; you’re opening doors to our unique Dog School experience – think “daycare plus.” This exceptional program in the Rutland area not only fosters continued learning for your pup but also provides opportunities for socialization with furry friends. Join us at Mountainside Mutts for a training journey that celebrates the individuality of your canine companion.