Today was our graduation day. It was bittersweet, ghost loves all his trainers and was always excited to see them every week. We both gained a lot of confidence to go out and explore the world again. We will definitely be back for alumni events!

Taking the Lead
Columbus, Ohio
About Taking the Lead
Is your dog's behavior causing frustration? If so, look no further than Taking the Lead, the premier option for dog training in Columbus, OH. Our comprehensive programs cater to all of your canine needs. Our day training model is perfect for general obedience and puppy training. For those dealing with more challenging issues, we offer specialized training for reactive and aggressive dogs. Our expert trainers use proven techniques to address these complex behaviors, creating a safer and more harmonious relationship between you and your pet. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and embark on your journey to a well-behaved, happy dog!
Training & services
Training goals
- Behavior consultation
Program details
- Crate training
Program details
- Leash training
Program details
- Obedience training
Program details
- Puppy training
Program details
- Socialization
Program details
Behavior support
- Aggression training
Program details
- Barking
Program details
- Counter surfing
Program details
- Fear and confidence
Program details
- Jumping up Customer-reported
Program details
- Reactivity training
Program details
- Resource guarding
Program details
- Separation anxiety
Program details
How training happens
- Day training
Program details
- In-home training
Program details
- Online or virtual training
Program details
- Owner coaching
Program details
- Private training
Program details
Dog age
- Puppies
Program details
- Senior dogs
Program details
Support between sessions
- Follow-up support
Program details
- Homework and practice Customer-reported
Program details
- Personalized training plans
Program details
Dog sports
- Agility
Program details
Your dog’s background
- Rescue dogs
Program details
Training approach
- Clicker training
Program details
Consultations
- Free consultation
Program details
Other listed services
View 5 additional details
- Alumni Social Events
Program details
- Dog Barks
Program details
- Lifetime Training
Program details
- Nail Trims
Program details
- Transformation Session
Program details
Confirm current programs and availability directly.
Questions & answers
From GoogleWhat people have asked about this business.
How much do your services cost?
Our pricing varies depending on the type and duration of training required. We offer package deals for multiple sessions as well as individual session rates. Please contact us for a personalized quote based on your specific needs and goals for your dog.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
How long does training typically take?
The duration of training varies depending on the dog's age, breed, and temperament as well as the specific training program and goals. Basic obedience training usually takes four to six weeks, while more complex behavior issues may require eight to 12 weeks or longer. We work with each customer to establish a realistic timeline based on their dog's needs.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
What is your training philosophy?
Our training philosophy is based on positive reinforcement with a balance and building a strong bond between dog and owner. We believe in using reward-based methods to encourage desired behaviors rather than punishment-based techniques. Our goal is to create a happy, well-behaved dog and a confident, knowledgeable owner. We help our customers communicate through the leash first while applying classical and operant conditioning.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
Why should I consider professional dog training for my pet?
Professional dog training classes can help to prevent behavioral problems, such as aggression and destructive chewing, and can teach your dog basic obedience skills that make them a better companion. It also helps to strengthen the bond between you and your pet.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
What kind of behavioral issues can be addressed through professional dog training?
Professional dog training can address a wide range of behavioral issues, including aggression toward people or other dogs, separation anxiety, fear of loud noises or new situations, destructive chewing or digging, excessive barking or whining, and more.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
What types of training do you offer?
We provide a range of training services including basic obedience, leash training, behavior modification, and specialized training for service dogs. Our programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of each dog and owner.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
Do you offer group classes or private sessions?
We offer group classes and private training sessions. Group classes are ideal for socialization and basic obedience, while private sessions allow for more focused attention on specific behavior issues or advanced training goals.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
Where do you train?
Our 4,700-square-foot facility in Upper Arlington is where most of our training takes place. We also take advantage of the local scene, including stores and metro parks like Antrim for training outings. Every day our dogs go on pack walks and field trips in the neighborhood to help them become well-socialized and -mannered.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, we offer in-house financing and financing through Affirm to our customers.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
What breeds of dogs do you train?
We train all breeds and sizes. From Chihuahuas to Great Danes, the big and small, we train them all.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
Do you guarantee your training?
Yes, we guarantee group classes for the life of your dog. If your goals aren't reached during your program, we'll continue to provide support through group classes for maintenance and progress. No matter if it takes two months or two years, we'll be here for you and your dog until you're completely satisfied.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
Can all dogs be trained?
Yes, all dogs can be trained. However, some dogs may require more patience and persistence in dog training classes than others, and certain grades may require specialized training techniques.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
When is the best time to start training my puppy?
The earlier you start training your puppy, the better. Puppies have a critical socialization time period. Between three and four weeks of age is when they are most receptive to learning and new experiences.
Community answer · Taking the Lead · 2025-09-21
Public community answers. Authors are not verified as business representatives; details may have changed.
Customer reviews
Google listingMentioned in reviews
- knowledgeable trainers 16
- leash training 16
- reactivity training 12
- anxious dog training 7
- crate training 5
- tailored training 5
All 10 topics
- transformation session 5
- confident dog owners 3
- disobedience training 2
- rescue dog training 2
Google review topics, not confirmed services.
We had great experiences all around, from dropping the dogs off in the morning (and joking to Allie that I might not pick the dogs up afterward!) to training with Bishop, Kaitlyn, Lindsay and Marco. We also have to mention the jump start virtual sessions with Karla which got us r…Read full reviewClose full review
We had great experiences all around, from dropping the dogs off in the morning (and joking to Allie that I might not pick the dogs up afterward!) to training with Bishop, Kaitlyn, Lindsay and Marco. We also have to mention the jump start virtual sessions with Karla which got us ready for our in person trainings! The thing that surprised me the most was how kind, understanding, and patient everyone was with us. They answered all of our questions, encouraged us to send pictures and videos showing our progress or showing them what we were struggling with, and their suggestions helped. We have used MANY trainers and programs in the past and no matter how good they were, I have to say that nothing compared to what we received here. We are excited to now be part of the alumni program where we can still bring the dogs on adventures and are grateful that we can still ask questions and get help. The dedication from these trainers is unparalleled. Know that you DO have to put in consistent work if you want it to help. And also don’t expect that your work is done after the program. But it is so worth it. We have hope now that we never could have dreamed of and have seen things change before our eyes that were beyond what we could have imagined. I highly recommend this program.
Couldn't recommend this facility more! It is a night and day difference in our dog Pepper. Not only has her resource guarding tendencies improved significantly, but her general obedience is so much better too! Every trainer we had was so kind, patient and thorough in explaining w…Read full reviewClose full review
Couldn't recommend this facility more! It is a night and day difference in our dog Pepper. Not only has her resource guarding tendencies improved significantly, but her general obedience is so much better too! Every trainer we had was so kind, patient and thorough in explaining what she had learned that day. They even helped me understand certain behaviors in Pepper that I was completely misreading. Loved our experience and love knowing that if I need any help in the future that I can always reach out to them!
Such a great dog trainer. You and your dog are going to learn a ton!
All of the trainers at Taking the lead showed me and my dog Henry that they truly care about giving him the one on one training he needed! Henry has improved so much and I’m so thankful for all the trainers who worked so hard for my Henry boy!
Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.