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Taking the Lead

Columbus, Ohio

5/5· 151 Google reviews

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
  • Crate training
  • Leash training
  • Obedience training
  • Puppy training
  • Socialization

Behavior support

  • Aggression training
  • Barking
  • Counter surfing
  • Fear and confidence
  • Jumping up Customer-reported
  • Reactivity training
  • Resource guarding
  • Separation anxiety

How training happens

  • Day training
  • In-home training
  • Online or virtual training
  • Owner coaching
  • Private training

Dog age

  • Puppies
  • Senior dogs

Support between sessions

  • Follow-up support
  • Homework and practice Customer-reported
  • Personalized training plans

Dog sports

  • Agility

Your dog’s background

  • Rescue dogs

Training approach

  • Clicker training

Consultations

  • Free consultation

Other listed services

View 5 additional details
  • Alumni Social Events
  • Dog Barks
  • Lifetime Training
  • Nail Trims
  • Transformation Session

Confirm current programs and availability directly.

Questions & answers

From Google

What 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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google
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

Question on Google

Public community answers. Authors are not verified as business representatives; details may have changed.

Customer reviews

Google listing
5
out of 5151 Google reviews

Mentioned 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.

100 collected reviews

Text reviews first · newest first
Matthew Shackleford
5/5
I just want to say thank you to Taking The Lead Ohio Not only have my wife and I gotten confidence as owners by my dog Levi has also gotten confidence in himself. He is a wonderful walker and an even better playmate and companion. Taking The Lead transformed my dog from having s…Read full reviewClose full review

I just want to say thank you to Taking The Lead Ohio Not only have my wife and I gotten confidence as owners by my dog Levi has also gotten confidence in himself. He is a wonderful walker and an even better playmate and companion. Taking The Lead transformed my dog from having separation anxiety to having the confidence to be his best self. I cannot thank Lindsay Stamper, the owner and lead trainer, enough for all she and her amazing trainers have done for me and my dog. I also want to shout out Anthoney for his wonderful work with Levi!!

Joe Fleming
5/5
Our experience with Taking The Lead was excellent. We needed help in learning how to train our dog. And now because of the lessons we can enjoy our walks with her at the park. We spent several training sessions Marco and he was patient, kind and caring. (With both us and our Fre…Read full reviewClose full review

Our experience with Taking The Lead was excellent. We needed help in learning how to train our dog. And now because of the lessons we can enjoy our walks with her at the park. We spent several training sessions Marco and he was patient, kind and caring. (With both us and our Frenchie ) He made sure that we understood the lessons. All of the trainers were excellent and very caring! So glad we decided to go with Taking The Lead.

Leah Slawson
5/5

Anthony did a wonderful job in helping train Gibbs. Before training, Gibbs was so hyper he couldn't relax. Now he goes to his place and falls asleep. Highly recommend Taking the Lead.

Molly DiSabato
5/5

Absolutely recommend Taking the Lead! The trainers were fantastic—knowledgeable, patient, and clearly passionate about what they do. The training process was well-structured, easy to follow, and gave us tools we could apply right away. We saw real progress and felt supported every step of the way. Highly recommend to anyone looking for effective, positive dog training!

Connie May
5/5

Lindsey and her team were absolutely incredible! Our Frankie a pug mix rescue was struggling with reactivity and now he is completely different dog. I am able to take him on walks and no pulling. He even went to a patio with other dogs. Their positive methods are so effective. Highly, highly recommend Taking The Lead.

Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.

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