Finding the right dog trainer can feel like a monumental task. You’re not just looking for someone to teach “sit” and “stay”; you’re searching for a partner who understands your dog as an individual and can help you build a stronger, more joyful relationship. For dog owners in North Yarmouth, Maine, and even across the country via virtual lessons, Tree Frog Farm Dog Training has become a trusted name for precisely this reason. It’s more than a training facility; it’s a place where the unique bond between a human and a dog is the foundation of all learning.
Tree Frog Farm operates on a philosophy that is both simple and profound: dogs and humans don’t speak the same language out of the box. The training focuses on teaching the owner how to recognize and understand their dog’s signals, fostering a two-way street of communication. This approach, rooted in reward-based methods, helps build confidence, ensuring that every learning experience is positive and constructive. Set against a backdrop that respects and conserves the natural Maine wildlife, it’s a serene environment for both pets and their people to grow.
The Philosophy: Building a Partnership
At the heart of Tree Frog Farm dog training is a commitment to positive, reward-based learning. This methodology is centered on recognizing and marking a desired behavior, then following it with a reward. The more a behavior is rewarded, the more likely the dog is to offer it again. But it’s not just about treats. The trainers at Tree Frog Farm encourage owners to discover what truly motivates their dog, whether it’s food, play, or access to fun activities like chasing a ball or playing with other dogs.
“We believe prevention, and teaching alternative behaviors is a constructive way to guide a dog,” says Liz Langham, Owner & Lead Trainer. “We believe safety is paramount while guiding a dog. If a dog is not feeling safe, they will have a harder time being successful.”
This focus on safety and understanding creates an environment where dogs feel secure enough to learn and thrive. By treating each dog and person as an individual, the training is tailored to specific needs and personalities, moving away from a one-size-fits-all curriculum. Once a behavior becomes reliable, the rewards are randomized, which strengthens the learning and ensures the dog remains engaged and responsive.
A Comprehensive Suite of Services
Whether you have a brand-new puppy, a recently adopted rescue, or a dog with specific behavioral challenges, Tree Frog Farm offers a program designed to help. Their services are structured to build a strong foundation and address everything from basic manners to complex issues like fear and reactivity.
Private Lessons and Packages
For those who need individualized attention, private lessons are the cornerstone of the farm’s offerings. These one-on-one sessions are perfect for owners with variable schedules, dogs that are reactive in group settings, or families who want to be fully involved in the training process.
- Private Lessons with Handler: At $125 per hour, these sessions allow you and your dog to work directly with a trainer.
- “The Four Pack”: A package of four one-hour lessons for $460, designed to be used within four months.
- One-on-One Lessons (Without Handler): Ideal for busy owners, a trainer works with your dog individually to build skills, mixing work with play. Owners are briefed weekly on the techniques their dog is learning.
Specialized Long-Term Training
Recognizing that consistency is key, especially for young or challenging dogs, the “Training for Duration” package offers a unique, in-depth solution. This package includes 24 private lessons over a year for $2700. A trainer works one-on-one with your dog, guiding them through developmental stages and helping them build confidence. It’s a fantastic option for puppies, newly adopted dogs still settling in, or timid dogs that need to build a trusting relationship with a knowledgeable handler.
Group Classes for Every Stage
Group classes provide a wonderful opportunity for socialization and learning in a controlled environment. All multi-week classes begin with a dog-free orientation to ensure owners are prepared.
- Puppy Class: A 7-week course for puppies 8 to 20 weeks old, focusing on foundational skills.
- Family Dog: For dogs 5 months and older, this 7-week class builds on basic manners.
- The Charm School for Dogs: A 10-week advanced class for graduates of a previous training program.
- Confident Canine: A 4-week class specifically designed to build confidence in timid dogs.
- Canine Good Citizen Preparation: A 6-week course to prepare you and your dog for the AKC’s CGC test.
Embracing Technology: Distance Learning
One of the most innovative aspects of Tree Frog Farm dog training is its embrace of distance learning. Recognizing that expert help shouldn’t be limited by geography, they offer virtual consultations via platforms like Zoom for $125 per hour. This service has proven incredibly effective for a wide range of clients, from new puppy owners seeking pre-arrival advice to those dealing with behavioral issues or dogs with a severe aversion to car travel. Clients from across the United States, including Arizona, California, and New York City, have successfully utilized this modern approach to training.
A person having a virtual dog training session on a laptop with a trainer from Tree Frog Farm, with their puppy sitting beside them.
Is Tree Frog Farm the Right Choice for You?
Choosing a dog trainer is a personal decision that depends on your goals, your dog’s temperament, and your training philosophy. Tree Frog Farm is an ideal fit for owners who:
- Believe in building a relationship based on trust and mutual understanding.
- Are committed to positive, reward-based training methods.
- Want individualized attention, whether in private sessions or thoughtfully structured group classes.
- Appreciate a holistic approach that considers the dog’s emotional well-being as paramount.
- Are looking for expert guidance on specific behavioral issues like fear, reactivity, or lack of confidence.
The farm’s emphasis on teaching owners to “read” their dogs is invaluable. This skill transcends basic commands, empowering you to navigate new situations, understand your dog’s needs, and proactively manage their behavior in a constructive way. The expertise of the lead trainer, Liz Langham, who is a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), ensures that the methods are sound, effective, and humane.
Getting Started on Your Training Journey
Embarking on a training program at Tree Frog Farm is more than just an investment in your dog’s behavior; it’s an investment in your shared life together. The skills and understanding you gain will strengthen your bond and lead to a more harmonious household. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of puppyhood, building confidence in a fearful dog, or simply aiming to perfect your handling skills, the team provides the guidance and moral support needed to succeed. The result is a well-behaved companion and a partnership that will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the training philosophy at Tree Frog Farm?
Tree Frog Farm dog training is centered on a reward-based, positive reinforcement philosophy. The core belief is that training should be a partnership, focusing on teaching owners to understand their dog’s communication signals and using motivators like food, play, and praise to encourage desired behaviors in a safe and supportive environment.
Where is Tree Frog Farm located?
Tree Frog Farm is located at 239 Mountfort Rd, North Yarmouth, ME 04097. While they offer many in-person services at this beautiful location, they also provide virtual training for clients located anywhere in the country.
Do they offer programs for puppies?
Yes, they have a 7-week Puppy Class specifically designed for puppies between the ages of 8 and 20 weeks. The program focuses on socialization, basic manners, and building a strong foundation for a lifetime of learning. The first class is a 90-minute orientation for owners, without the puppies.
Can they help with behavioral problems like aggression or fear?
Absolutely. Tree Frog Farm provides behavior consultations and modification counseling for issues including fear, aggression, and reactivity. Their private lessons and specialized classes like “Confident Canine” are designed to address these complex challenges with expert guidance and a focus on making the dog feel safe.
How much do the training services cost?
Costs vary by service. Private lessons are typically $125 per hour, with packages available (e.g., four lessons for $460). A 7-week Puppy or Family Dog class costs $250. More intensive, long-term packages like the 24-lesson “Training for Duration” program are also offered.
What if I don’t live in Maine?
You can still benefit from their expertise through distance learning. Tree Frog Farm offers online private lessons for $125 per hour, which have been successfully used by clients nationwide for everything from puppy consultations to behavioral advice.
How do I register for a class?
To register for a class or schedule a private lesson, you should email them directly at treefrogfarm@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name, phone number, your dog’s name, age, and breed, and the specific class or service you are interested in.
