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Training

Dog Training at SOS reTAIL

Dog training is an essential part of responsible pet ownership, and we’re proud to offer group training classes in partnership with trusted trainers right here at the store. Training helps build a strong bond with your dog and supports their development into a well-mannered, confident companion.

We believe in the power of positive reinforcement—a reward-based approach that uses treats, praise, toys, or affection to encourage good behavior. This method fosters trust, strengthens your relationship, and helps create lasting behavior changes. All trainers who lead classes at our store are committed to force-free, non-aversive techniques that put your dog’s well-being first. Learn more about upcoming classes and register below!

Meet the Trainers

We have partnered up with Melissa Kroll, owner of Bad Dog Basics, and Ava Marceau, owner of Adventure Dog RI to provide our guests with the very best group dog training classes out there.

Bad Dog BasicsMelissa Kroll owns and operates Bad Dog Basics out of southern Rhode Island. Melissa has many years of animal experience and studied with Animal Behavior College, becoming a certified professional dog trainer in 2007. She is always striving to learn more and passes her knowledge on to clients through an exceptional class curriculum, additional resources, and personalized attention throughout training sessions and beyond. Essential Dog group classes are led by Melissa Kroll and are scheduled regularly; see below for the upcoming classes.

Training 2Ava Marceau owns and operates Adventure Dog RI out of southern Rhode Island. Ava is a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner with a lifelong passion for animal behavior and welfare. Her training journey began with horses and eventually led to professional dog training, where she became a certified trainer in 2024. Ava focuses on building trust, clear communication, and mutual respect between dogs and their people. Her compassionate, science-based approach helps dogs thrive while honoring who they are as individuals. Leash Up! - Walking Your Dog Made Easy group classes are led by Ava Marceau and are scheduled regularly; see below for the upcoming classes.

Upcoming Classes

Explore the class options below to find the best fit for you and your pup. All registrations are handled online through Give Butter—just click the linked class session on the highlighted day and time next to the dates desired to sign up.

Before attending, you'll also need to complete the required class waiver (linked below), which also outlines important attendee requirements. If you have any questions or trouble registering, call (401) 360-2258, e-mail [email protected] or stop by the store!

A woman in a dark hoodie with an anchor logo is crouching and holding a brown dog by its leash inside a room with red walls. The dog is wearing a harness, and the woman appears to be guiding the dog with her hand. A clock is visible on the wall behind them.Essential Dog Class

This is NOT your average obedience class!

In this class series, learn how to effectively communicate with your pup, build useable skills, and tackle common problems in a super fun environment. This is a five (5) session consecutive week class with an orientation and bonus videos. No previous training required, but participating dogs must be at least 4 months old and up to date on all core vaccinations. This class is limited to five (5) registrants.  Tuition is $175 plus tax.  

UPCOMING CLASSES:

*Click the highlighted day and time next to class dates to register for that session*

Training 5

Leash Up! - Walking Your Dog Made Easy

Tired of getting dragged all around by your dog on walks? Join Trainer Ava Marceau KPA CTP, from Adventure Dog RI, for a 5-week group class designed to make walks more enjoyable and less chaotic. You’ll learn how to build better leash skills, keep your dog focused around distractions, and enjoy getting outside together. This class uses science-based, positive reinforcement training to help you and your dog work as a team, no force or intimidation, just effective relationship-building skills. This class is limited to four (4) registrants. Tuition is $225 plus tax.

UPCOMING CLASSES: