At Dogtopia Columbus-Downtown we are dedicated to helping dogs and their owners build healthy, confident, and happy relationships. Our Trainer’s journey into dog training began when she welcomed a military-trained K9 into her home. Working closely with him provided firsthand insight into advanced obedience, structure, and canine behavioral needs, sparking a deep interest in training and behavior.
Through this experience, Madison developed a particular passion for emotional support and the powerful bond between dogs and people—an area she continues to focus on today.
Madison is a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), and her work follows ethical, humane training practices grounded in modern behavior science. She has also earned certification in Animal and Human Bonds through the Human Animal Connection Institute, reflecting her commitment to strengthening the meaningful connection between people and their dogs.
Training Philosophy
Madison is certified in positive-reinforcement training, focusing on building trust, confidence, and clear communication between you and your dog. Her approach is gentle, supportive, and tailored to each dog’s unique personality and needs.
She uses assessment-driven behavior modification to identify triggers, teach alternative responses, and gradually increase a dog’s ability to manage stress. Madison never uses punishment. Instead, she focuses on teaching practical skills and creating predictable routines that help reduce escalation, stress, and anxiety.
Whether you’re looking for help with basic manners, addressing problem behaviors, or developing your dog as an emotional support companion, Madison is committed to guiding you and your dog every step of the way.
Approach
- Positive Reinforcement: Training focuses on rewarding desired behaviors with treats, play, praise, or other meaningful reinforcers. This approach increases reliability while maintaining a trusting relationship between dog and handler.
- Science–Based Behavior: Methods are grounded in modern learning theory and supported by ongoing professional development.
- Individualized Training Plans: Every dog and family is different. Programs are customized to fit each dog’s temperament, learning style, and household goals.
- Owner Education: Successful training happens when owners understand their dog. Sessions emphasize practical skills and clear guidance so progress continues at home.
Why Positive Reinforcement?
Our training approach is built on positive reinforcement — the most widely recommended method by veterinarians and animal behavior experts around the world. Instead of punishment or force, we reward the behaviors we want to see more of, helping dogs learn in a way that feels safe, motivating, and fun. When dogs feel confident and understood, learning happens faster and the results last longer.
Benefits of positive reinforcement training:
• Builds trust and cooperation between you and your dog
• Encourages lasting behavior change through clear communication
• Reduces fear, frustration, and stress during learning
• Strengthens the lifelong bond between dogs and their families
Services & Pricing
All training services use science-based, positive reinforcement methods designed to help dogs learn effectively while strengthening the relationship between dogs and their owners. Each program is customized to meet the needs of the individual dog and household. You can sign up for any of the training based on where you are in your dog’s journey, relationship and training. Training Classes are available Saturday and Sunday during our normal hours of operation.
- 30 Minute Private Session $60
- 1 Hour Private Session $120
- Level 1: Beginner 4 Week Session (1 hour per session) $180
- Level 2: Emotional Support 4 Week Session $220
- Level 3: Intermediate 4 Week Session (1 hour per session) $200
- Level 4: Advanced 4 Week Session (1 hour per session) $200
CLASSES
Beginner Training – Start Here at training level #1
- This hands-on course builds the foundation for a strong, lasting bond between you and your dog. Core skills include reliable sit and stay, loose-leash walking, trustworthy recall, and polite greetings. We also address common challenges such as potty training, puppy biting, and counter surfing, etc.
- Lessons are gentle, science-based, and tailored to dogs of all ages and temperaments. Whether you’re working with a playful puppy or a more reserved adult dog, you’ll leave each session with practical tools, short daily exercises, and the confidence to practice at home.
- Classes are intentionally kept small to ensure personalized coaching. Sessions include live demonstrations, real-time feedback, and ongoing support between classes.
Emotional Support Training – Graduate to training level #2
- This structured class focuses on strengthening the bond between you and your dog while teaching practical skills that promote calmness, confidence, and emotional regulation.
- Through short, science-based exercises, dogs learn focused attention, reliable recall, polite greetings, and relaxed behavior both at home and in public settings. The course also introduces coping strategies for stress-triggering environments and emphasizes relationship-building activities that deepen trust between dog and owner.
Intermediate Training – Move up to training level #3
- This engaging, hands-on course focuses on mental enrichment and skill development. Dogs build confidence and focus through problem-solving exercises, scent work, impulse-control drills, and interactive training games.
- Sessions combine cognitive challenges with training refinements such as reliable recall under distraction, distance cues, and calm behavior when rewards are delayed. This class is ideal for curious adolescents who have completed the beginner course or dogs who already know their basic cues and are ready for the next level of learning and enrichment.
Advanced / AKC Preparation – Advance to training level #4
- This advanced course is designed for dogs that have completed basic obedience and are ready to refine their skills in preparation for the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification.
- Training focuses on strengthening impulse control, responsiveness, and the dog-owner bond while mastering the behaviors required to confidently pass the CGC evaluation. Dogs will practice calm behavior around distractions, polite interactions, and reliable obedience in real-world scenarios.
Getting Started
The first step is scheduling a 15 minute consultation session so we can learn about your dog and create a training plan tailored to your goals. Our training is available only on the weekends. To schedule your consultation please contact us at (614) 254-6722!
