Dog Training

At the Humane Society for Greater Nashua, we support training that is based on positive reinforcement and force free methods. Our mission is to strengthen the human animal bond, and as pet owners it is our responsibility to nurture that bond with our canine companions. We do not support or recommend punishment-based training methods, as many studies have shown animals display more stress-related behaviors and are more frequently tense. By understanding the difference, and using positive based methods, we can create a lasting and fulfilling connection with our canine companions that will enrich both our lives. 

Puppy or Dog Basics 101:

• Six week classes are taught by our Manager of Behavior and Training, Debi Ford.
• We offer small class sizes, with a limit of 3 dogs in Dog Basics 101 and 3 puppies in Puppy Class.
• Courses will teach basic skills to provide a solid behavioral foundation including: come, sit, stay, settle, loose leash walking, and more.
• Classes are taught with positive reinforcement and science-based learning — committed to building a better relationship between dogs and their people.
• Coursework will encourage creativity and fun. (Puppy Class will include supervised puppy play for socialization)
• Classes are held at our facility at 24 Ferry Road in Nashua.

Fees:

• Cost is $110 for a 6 week course.
• A special discounted rate of $100 available for Humane Society adopters and alumni!
• Private training lessons are available at $50 per hour.

*Please note that proof of up-to-date rabies vaccine is required to sign up.

Class Openings:

DOG BASICS 101

• 5pm Tuesdays – starting on 11/12
• 7pm Tuesdays – starting on 11/12
• 5pm Thursdays – starting on 11/14
• 7pm Thursdays – starting on 11/14

PUPPY CLASS

• 10am Saturdays – starting 11/23

For more information or to register for an upcoming training class, please contact Debi Ford at 603-889-2275 x38 or send her an email:debi@hsfn.org.

Introducing our Manager of Behavior and Training:

Debi Ford is a dog trainer certified by the Council of Certified Professional Dog Trainers. This requires proof of training experience as well as passing a stringent exam focused on the science of dog behavior.  Debi is also a licensed Family Dog Mediator, shelter division, which is an ethology-based approach to dogs. She graduated from the Victoria Stillwell Academy of Training and Behavior in 2019 and Michael Shikashio’s Master Course in Aggression In 2022. She also completed Susan Freidman’s LLA course based in learning theory and behavior analysis as well and is an Empowered Animals! Dog Pro.

She has 11 years experience in working with shelter dogs.  A retail manager and training manager for many years, Debi has shifted her focus entirely to pursuing her passion for helping shelter dogs with in-shelter struggles and helping people better understand their four legged co-pilots. She lives with Alfie, a three year old Lurcher, from Ireland.