Pulling on the leash, jumping on guests, barking at every bike? We train at your home and on your own streets, with treats, timing and a plan you can keep up between lessons.
Every program starts with a free 15-minute phone call, so we can tell you honestly what will help and what won't.
Example pricing for this sample site. Packages include unlimited text questions between lessons.
We use reward-based training: we teach your dog what to do instead, and make it worth their while. No shock, prong or choke collars, and no "alpha" talk.
Most of the work happens between lessons, so every visit ends with short, written homework that fits around your day: two five-minute sessions, not an hour.
Talk about my dogTell us about your dog and what's driving you nuts. 15 minutes.
Pick a lesson slot. Mornings, evenings and Saturdays fill first.
We meet you and your dog at home and start with the biggest problem.
Short daily homework, with text support between visits.
| Monday–Friday | 8am–6pm |
| Saturday | 9am–1pm (classes) |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Evenings | Tue & Thu until 7:30pm |
Lessons are by appointment. Puppy Foundations starts a new group on the first Saturday of each month.
Book a lessonPrivate lessons happen at your home or a quiet park near you. Group classes meet at a fenced field in Hood River (directions sent when you book). No extra travel fee within the towns below.
I grew up with farm dogs in the upper valley and spent six years at a shelter in Portland, where the dogs that went home fastest were the ones with simple, solid manners. That's still what I teach.
Steady Lead started in 2020 with one puppy class in a borrowed orchard barn. Now it's me, a part-time assistant on class days and a lot of liver treats.
I'll always tell you what I'd do with my own dog, and when a vet or a veterinary behaviorist would be a better first call.
Reward-based training. We reward the behavior we want, manage the environment so mistakes don't keep happening, and never use shock, prong or choke collars.
Yes, private lessons happen at your home or a park near you, because that's where your dog needs to behave. Group classes meet at our fenced field in Hood River.
Most leash and manners goals take three to five lessons with practice in between. Reactivity usually takes longer. We'll give you an honest estimate after the first visit.
We work with dogs who bark, lunge or panic at other dogs, people or bikes. For bites that broke skin, we'll refer you to a veterinary behaviorist first and can work alongside them.
Puppy Foundations takes pups from 8 to 20 weeks with their first round of vaccines. Private lessons can start the week your puppy comes home.
Give us 24 hours' notice and we'll move your lesson at no charge. Same-day cancellations count as a used lesson from your package.
Pick what you're after and when suits you. Nora will text to set up your free 15-minute call or lesson time.
(541) 555-0152