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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
Thomas Blubaugh
5/5
I have never hired a trainer in my life. Had to with this rescue dog. I heard about Shannon and her crew on the internet by browsing. When I came upon her website I was hooked. Her experience led me to “Take the lead”! The crew is amazing. Just the results over a short time spoke…Read full reviewClose full review

I have never hired a trainer in my life. Had to with this rescue dog. I heard about Shannon and her crew on the internet by browsing. When I came upon her website I was hooked. Her experience led me to “Take the lead”! The crew is amazing. Just the results over a short time spoke volumes as to well their training program works. You can customize whatever your goals are for your pet and they will meet them! Thank you Shannon and crew!!

Madison Kagrise
5/5
I cannot say enough good things about TTL dog training. I adopted my rescue last year, and quickly learned he needed proper leash training. He had leash reactivity and would bark and pull every time we saw another dog on our walk. I found Taking the Lead online and it was the bes…Read full reviewClose full review

I cannot say enough good things about TTL dog training. I adopted my rescue last year, and quickly learned he needed proper leash training. He had leash reactivity and would bark and pull every time we saw another dog on our walk. I found Taking the Lead online and it was the best decision I could have done for us. Not only do I have the proper tools and knowledge now for my dog, but I also walked away being trained myself. Lindsay and her team are amazing at what they do. I love how the training is hands on and you are given all the tools and proper direction to build onto your partnership with your dog. Not to mention, the continual education with alumni events AFTER your dog has graduated from training. Don't let the cost scare you away, this is one of those things in life that is worth the long-term investment. And this is coming from someone who has never used a dog trainer before. We now have more enjoyable walks, no barking and pulling, and now we know how to properly introduce ourselves to new dogs. I couldn't be happier with the improvement from when I first got him. You will not be disappointed - you will be so thankful you did this for your dog and for yourself!

devin donnelly
5/5
I adopted a dog from the shelter and did NOT know what I was getting myself into. This was my first dog that I was responsible to train and had no clue what I was doing. Taking The Lead has helped my pup Loki grow so much in such a short time span. The 6 week lesson plan has help…Read full reviewClose full review

I adopted a dog from the shelter and did NOT know what I was getting myself into. This was my first dog that I was responsible to train and had no clue what I was doing. Taking The Lead has helped my pup Loki grow so much in such a short time span. The 6 week lesson plan has helped Loki improve on walks, relaxing at home, jumping, nipping and counter surfing. The one on one lessons when I would pick him up everyday have helped me feel so much more comfortable training him at home myself than I ever thought I would be. I am so grateful to Taking The Lead for helping both my pup and I grow together!!

Grace Curry
5/5

Taking The Lead was there every step of the way when it came to my aggressive dog. I couldn’t have asked for a more compassionate, loving & supportive team on my side through such a difficult time. Lindsay truly knows what she’s doing, even when it comes to challenging cases. She’s honest, realistic and it’s obvious she truly cares about you & your pet. Thanks for everything TTL 🩵

Lisa Swift
5/5
Lindsay, Marco and the whole team of trainers were absolutely AMAZING with Hazel! Marco's patience and gentleness with both Hazel and her Mom was reassuring in that I had made the right decision in entrusting her with TTL! She is a work in progress, but I have learned what trig…Read full reviewClose full review

Lindsay, Marco and the whole team of trainers were absolutely AMAZING with Hazel! Marco's patience and gentleness with both Hazel and her Mom was reassuring in that I had made the right decision in entrusting her with TTL! She is a work in progress, but I have learned what triggers her and how to properly mitigate those triggers. If you're on the fence about getting your pup trained, hop off and let TTL help you with bringing out the best in your furry companion!

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

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