We're the dog behavior experts you've been looking for!
At Gigi's Behavior Services, we're dedicated to making your dog shine using modern, kind, and science-backed dog training and dog behavior methods. No need for pain, force, fear, or tough tactics – even with tricky behaviors! Our family-friendly approach, blending common-sense management and positive reinforcement, is available at home, remotely, or on our campus in Columbus, Ohio. Let us help you and your furry friend achieve those training and behavior goals with a smile.
* ALL SERVICES BY APPOINTMENT ONLY *
Puppy Preschool: 60-min sessions
4 classes
Group classes for puppies aged 8 to 14 weeks
Skills and Manners: 60-min sessions
Group or private classes for fully vaccinated dogs (typically at least 15 weeks old)
Private Behavior Modification
Private consultation and training for dogs with challenging behaviors that wouldn't cope well in a group class; or families who prefer individualized attention and/or a custom program
The Gigi's Training Promise™
Dogs taught using rewards-based methods tend to be more optimistic when engaging with the world and willing to try new behaviors. The four pillars of Gigi's Training Promise ™ outline our commitment to positive, fun, and meaningful long-term improvement of your dog's behavior and the human-animal bond.
1. We always use POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT
With positive reinforcement, the focus is on what you want your dog to do, instead of just reacting to what they already did. It's a simple and effective way to quickly teach your dog to offer behaviors you like instead of avoiding behaviors you don't like.
2. We know training works when it's SIMPLE and FUN
There's no need for complicated or stressful equipment and techniques to make training work. Good training is cooperative and can be fun for both you and your dog. It's a simple game: watch for the behavior you like and pay your dog with something they like.
3. We foster GREAT RELATIONSHIPS between you and your dog
Good communication is the basis for strong relationships and training is a great way to build trust between you and your dog! Working with Gigi's Behavior Services can help you learn how to understand your dog's behavior and open the lines of communication with skill and confidence.
4. We provide tools for LASTING RESULTS
Behaviors trained using positive reinforcement are strong and long-lasting because they are fun and feel good to the dog. Using our commitment to positive reinforcement, simple and fun training, and trust, we're going to provide tools to train your dog for life.
GIGI'S BEHAVIOR SERVICES FAQ
At Gigi’s, we believe training should be relationship-based, rewards-focused, and rooted in real-life support — for both dogs and their people. Whether you’re just getting started or working through a specific challenge, we’re here to meet you where you are and help you build skills that last.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear. If you don’t see what you’re looking for or want to talk through your dog’s needs, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out any time at behavior@gigis.org.
No, and that’s an important part of ethical behavior work. Reputable certification and membership organizations actually require that behavior professionals do not guarantee results — because behavior is complex, influenced by environment, history, health, and day-to-day consistency.
We can’t promise what your dog will or won’t do in the future, but we can promise to work with you closely. We’ll help you develop strategies that fit your real life and be there to troubleshoot when things don’t go as planned. Your follow-through makes a big difference, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
We’re proud to have Dr. Meghan Herron — a national leader in veterinary behavior — guiding our work at Gigi’s. Dr. Herron oversees both our shelter behavior program and Gigi’s Behavior Services training offerings.
At this time, we don’t offer public appointments with Dr. Herron. However, for clients actively working with Gigi’s Behavior Services, we do provide the option for vet-to-vet consultation. That means your veterinarian can collaborate directly with Dr. Herron to support your dog’s care when needed.
To learn more about that process, visit our Behavior Modification page.
Absolutely — we’re happy to help you feel confident before you commit. If you’re curious about our private consults, you can find examples of how our remote sessions work on our YouTube channel.
For group classes, just reach out. We’re glad to talk through which ongoing classes might be a good fit to visit. Our How to Train seminar is also a great way to get a feel for our approach and see if we’re the right match for you and your dog.
If you’re a pet professional interested in referring clients, we’d love to connect — and you’re welcome to come observe a session. Just contact us to start the conversation.
Yes — positive reinforcement is at the core of what we do. That said, behavior is more than a single method or tool.
Our focus is on helping you build a strong, trusting relationship with your dog using humane, evidence-based strategies. For some teams, that includes clicker training. For others, it might look different. We’ll work with you to find the tools and approaches that make the most sense for your dog — and for your life. The simple answer is yes! Behavior is more complicated than using training tools or slapping a label on something. More than a particular tool or label, we are a partner in building your relationship with your dog by choosing humane tools and methods that suit you and your pet.
Yes — dogs and people are always capable of learning and growing. If you’ve used correction-based techniques in the past, it may take a little extra patience to unlearn old patterns, but positive change is absolutely possible.
At Gigi’s, we offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore how effective rewards-based training can be. We’ll meet you where you are, and help you and your dog build new skills together. If you have questions or concerns, we’re here to talk. Dogs (and their people) can learn new things. Prior experience with different training techniques may require a little bit of extra patience to overcome/break old habits. We would love to offer you a supportive environment to explore how effective rewards-based training can be. We know change can be hard, feel free to reach out if you have concerns or questions.
We do not offer refunds for services that have already been provided.
For group classes, you’re eligible for:
- A full refund if you cancel 7 or more days before class begins.
- A 50% refund or the option to transfer to another session for a $25 fee if you cancel within 7 days of the start date.
- No refunds are available once the first class has begun.
For private sessions, you’ll receive a full refund if canceled at least 72 hours in advance. Closer to the appointment, cancellation fees may apply — those details are provided at registration.
If you have any questions, we’re happy to walk through your options.
A full refund will be issued for private sessions canceled at least 72 hours prior to the meeting. Cancellation fees will apply closer to the session – these are detailed when you register for your session.
Private Sessions
We understand that things come up. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give us at least 72 hours’ notice so we have time to adjust. Cancellations made within 72 hours may incur a fee, and unfortunately, no-shows aren’t eligible for a refund.
Group Classes
If you can’t make a class, just let your instructor know ahead of time if possible. We’ll make sure you still get handouts and support in your remaining sessions. You’re also welcome to join one of our drop-in Skills and Manners Sessions to keep your progress going.
To keep all dogs safe and healthy, we ask that you provide documentation showing your dog is current on vaccinations for parvo, distemper, Bordetella, and — if your dog is old enough — rabies.
Puppies can start our Puppy Class one week after their first set of vaccinations. Starting early is a great way to build confidence and set the stage for lifelong learning.
Yes — we offer several options for private sessions to meet your needs. You can work with us at Gigi’s, in your home, or remotely via Zoom. We’ll help you choose the format that’s the best fit for you, your dog, and your goals.
Yes! Our 10,000-square-foot training space is located on our 6-acre campus in Columbus, where we offer both group classes and private sessions. Whether you’re just getting started or working on advanced skills, we’ll help you find the right fit for your dog’s needs — and yours.
Yes — it’s never too late to start. Whether you’re working on long-standing challenges or just looking to strengthen your bond, we can help you build skills, set goals, and improve your relationship with your dog.
We’ll meet you where you are and create a plan that supports both you and your dog — no matter your starting point.Old dogs can learn new tricks! Even if you have been putting off training for years, we can help you develop and work towards your training goals, improve your relationship with your dog, and teach you new ways to play with one another.
Right away. The old advice about waiting until 6 months to start training doesn’t apply when you use positive, humane methods. In fact, early training is one of the best things you can do for your puppy.
We’ll help you teach your puppy that the world is safe, predictable, and full of good things — laying the foundation for a confident, well-adjusted adult dog. No pain, no force, no fear. Just practical, effective training that starts the moment your puppy comes home.
Absolutely. We’re happy to make creative adjustments so training is accessible, effective, and enjoyable for everyone. Just let us know what you need — we’re here to support you.
Please note: While we do not train service dogs, as they require specialized task training, we highly recommend the team at Atlas Assistance Dogs for those services. You can learn more about their excellent program at www.atlasdog.org.
Yes — absolutely. Dogs with physical differences often just need a little help learni how to communicate in ways that work for them.
We’ll create a customized training plan that takes your dog’s needs into account and helps you navigate any unique challenges you’re facing. Every dog deserves the chance to learn and thrive, and were here to help you get there — together.
Yes — that’s exactly what class is for! One of our main goals is helping your dog learn to focus on you, even with distractions like other dogs, new people, and a busy environment. We’ll teach you how to build that skill together.
If you're unsure about handling your dog in a group setting, or if your dog shows signs of fear or aggression, please reach out before registering. We’ll help you decide if a group class or a private session is the best starting point.
Raising a puppy is hard work. Let the experts lend a hand!
There is so much to learn in a short amount of time. Gigi's provides the resources you need to help your puppy be the best dog it can be!
Puppy Preschool: $150
Four weekly, 60-minute sessions (4 total)
Our puppy class focuses on the time-sensitive topics you need to start your puppy training.
Who can attend?
Class is open to puppies* up to 14 weeks old, with at least one set of vaccines (distemper, parvovirus, and bordetella) given by a vet, completed at least 7 days before the start of class.
What will my puppy and I learn?
- Learn to use reward-based training methods
- Learn how to teach your puppy to be brave and resilient
- Learn about puppy socialization, puppy biting, and preventing resource guarding
- Begin to learn handling techniques for grooming and vet care to reduce stress
- Get an introduction to teaching fun life skills and tricks
What do I need to know?
- A puppy can be registered for class the first week they are eligible (at least 8 weeks old and meets vaccine requirements)
- Puppy class is 4 consecutive weeks (with the exception of major US Holidays)
- Play time for puppies is brief and managed by Gigi's trained instructors
- Class sizes are kept small for lots of one-on-one attention
Prerequisite courses
"How to Train/Dog Body Language" recorded webinar completed prior to Puppy Preschool**
*A family member or guardian must attend with the dog
** Registration available on class registration page
Young or old...we teach new tricks. And other useful stuff, too.
Every dog is different and has their own needs. Our experienced team uses fun and effective methods to help you help your dog be the best they can be. New classes starting regularly -- REGISTER TODAY!
Skills and Manners Class
Six weekly, 60-minute sessions (6 total)
Our dog training curriculum is geared toward pet dogs and their families. Learn to understand the process of teaching behaviors and building skills that work in real life. We cover common problem behaviors, such as jumping during greeting and resource guarding, and work on handling for grooming and vet care. Classes are fun, effective, and a great way to develop your relationship with your dog – no matter how long you've been together.
Who can attend?
- Class is open to fully vaccinated dogs* at least 15 weeks old
What do I need to know?
- Small class size for lots of one-on-one attention
- Dogs joining class must be friendly with people and other dogs and able to focus in a group environment
- Dogs must be fully vaccinated by a veterinarian against the following: rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and bordetella
*A family member or guardian must attend with the dog
Skills and Manners Part 1: $199
What will my dog and I learn?
- Skills and manners for a dog to be polite in the home
- Fundamentals of dog training and how to use reward-based training methods
- Skills like sit, shake, leave/drop it, and other critical life skills
- Fundamentals of leash behavior and basic on-leash greetings
Prerequisite courses
"How to Train/Dog Body Language" recorded webinar completed prior to Skills and Manners Part 1*
* Registration available on the class registration page
Skills and Manners Part 2: $199
What will my dog and I learn?
- Skills and manners for a dog to be polite outside of the home
- Advancing the fundamental skills learned in Part 1
- Advanced leash behavior and support with more distracting on-leash greetings
- How to transition behaviors from just "tricks" to real-world skills
Prerequisite courses
Skills and Manners Part 1
Skills and Manners Drop In: $35
What do I need to know?
- Drop in class is open to those currently enrolled in a Skills and Manners group class or who have completed class in the last 3 months
- Make up a missed class or practice and refine skills you learned during class
- On arrival, you can request to work on a specific lesson from class or work on any behavior that was offered in class and your instructor will customize the session to meet your needs
- Pricing is per session, you can drop in for one or more sessions anytime
Prerequisite courses
Skills and Manners Part 1 OR Skills and Manners Part 2 Group Class
Tricks Class - Drop In $37 per week
60-minute sessions (8 total)
Looking to have some fun and just teach cool behaviors? Tricks class is for you! Learn 3-4 new tricks and activites to do with your dog each week. Our instructor can even evaluate for a trick dog title when you are ready!
These are drop in sessions. This means you can sign up for as many sessions as work with your schedule, and catch what you miss the next time. If you feel like you need more help on particular skills, you can repeat that week. There are 8 unique sessions, then the series will start over.
Who can attend?
- Class is open to fully vaccinated dogs* at least 15 weeks old
- Completion of Skills and Manners 1 or equivalent recommended. Dogs fluent in basics like attention, sit and down will progress more quickly. Your instructor will get you up to speed as needed!
What do I need to know?
- Small class size for lots of one-on-one attention
- Dogs joining class must be friendly with people and other dogs and able to focus in a group environment
- Dogs must be fully vaccinated by a veterinarian against the following: rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and Bordetella
*A family member or guardian must attend with the dog
Private Skills and Manners: $595
Six weekly, 60-minute sessions (6 total)
Our private option is based on the same curriculum used for our Skills and Manners 1 and 2 classes. Learn to understand the process of teaching behaviors and building skills that work in real life. We cover common problem behaviors, such as jumping during greeting and resource guarding, and work on handling for grooming and vet care. Classes are fun, effective, and a great way to develop your relationship with your dog – no matter how long you've been together.
Who can attend?
- Class is open to fully vaccinated dogs* at least 15 weeks old
What do I need to know?
- Flexible dates and times customized to your schedule
- Flexible dates and times customized to your schedule
- Dogs joining this class need to be able to eat treats in an unfamiliar environment
- Dogs with leash-reactive and shy behavior that will not cope well in a group class are welcome
- Dogs must be fully vaccinated by a veterinarian against the following: rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and bordetella
Prerequisite courses
"How to Train/Dog Body Language" recorded webinar completed prior to Skills and Manners Part 1*
* Registration is available on the class registration page
*A family member or guardian must attend with the dog
Reactive Dog Class
Orientation and One on One Meeting $150
We know that handling a reactive dog can be embarrassing and stressful. We want you to feel confident that you understand what to expect and establish some foundations before the first group class. Your instructor will help you set up a custom management plan and practice skills you will use in class.
- Orientation - in person seminar at Gigi's NO DOGS
- One on One Meeting - in person private session at Gigi's with your instructor YES DOG
Group sessions - four weekly, 60-minute sessions (4 total) $300
We will work outdoors and use the car as a safe retreat for breaks during class. Your instructor will help you learn skills to settle your dog between working set ups with the other teams taking class. Expect to practice skills for management and teach your dog how to remain calm in the face of their triggers.
Who can attend?
- Class is open to fully vaccinated dogs at least 6 months old
- Completion of orientation and one on one session OR permission of your consultant if you are an established GBS client
What do I need to know?
- Some teams benefit from starting with private behavior modification prior to joining group class to build attention and skills needed in order to be successful in the environment
- Clients that have completed the orientation and one on one meeting are eligible to go directly to follow up meetings if the only behavior concern is reactivity
- Dogs with any bite history require instructor permission to join a group class, your instructor will discuss muzzle training in your one on one session
- Dogs must be fully vaccinated by a veterinarian against the following: rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and Bordetella
Prerequisite courses
"How to Train/Dog Body Language" recorded webinar
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