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    • Home
    • Explore Monastic Life
      • Become a Monk or Nun
      • Resident Experience
      • Become a Companion
      • Companions Only
      • About the Monks and Nuns
    • Worship & Schedule
      • Worship Services
      • Newsletters Articles
      • Videos of Monastic Life
    • Visit & Events
      • Visit New Skete Monastery
      • Events Seminars Workshops
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      • Dog Training
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  • Home
  • Explore Monastic Life
    • Become a Monk or Nun
    • Resident Experience
    • Become a Companion
    • Companions Only
    • About the Monks and Nuns
  • Worship & Schedule
    • Worship Services
    • Newsletters Articles
    • Videos of Monastic Life
  • Visit & Events
    • Visit New Skete Monastery
    • Events Seminars Workshops
  • Dogs
    • Our Life with Dogs
    • Dog Training
    • Puppy Program
  • Gift Shops Online Stores
  • Support Us

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New Skete Dog Training

Brother Christopher walking dogs on monastery road.

Dog Training for all Breeds of Dogs

  • help correct nuisance behaviors
  • deepen the bond between you and your dog
  • ensure your dog's safety and happiness
  • nurture a good canine companion

Brother Christopher with German Shephed

Our Training Program

A 2.5 week course in AKC (American Kennel Club) type obedience, incorporating the values of our monastic environment.

Our technique and philosophy
 

Our aim is to make it possible for owners to include their dogs fully in their lives, to help them realize the dream of what such a relationship can be.     
  

We teach your dog the Heel/Let’s go, Sit, Wait/Stay, Place, Come, Down and Down-Stay on and off leash, and help you with any behavioral difficulties you have mentioned to us. Our method, described at length in our books, "How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend," "The Art of Raising a Puppy,"  “Divine Canine,” and "Let Dogs Be Dogs," employs a philosophy of praise, fairness, and discipline, set against a background of patience, repetition, and dedication. 


In addition, over the years, we have had great success integrating remote collars into our training program. These collars use very low-level electrical impulses (usually lower than a human can feel in their own hand) in conjunction with commands to reinforce understanding and bring your dog to on and off-leash reliability, while adjusting unwanted behavior in less time and with much less stress than ever before. 

dog sitting waiting for a cookie in dog training yard

Our Training

Here at New Skete we offer a course in AKC (American Kennel Club) type obedience, incorporating the values of our monastic environment with the teaching of standard exercises both on and off leash. We also help owners with behavioral difficulties they may mention to us.  (Please note that some behavioral issues may require a longer or different program than offered at New Skete.)

 

​The course runs 2.5 weeks, and includes:
•    Boarding
•    Exercise and care
•    Daily training
•    Remote collar and any other training collar used with your dog
•    Final interview with demo and private hands-on training with owner
•    Training report for continued education at home 

*   Access to video library



 Our training comes with support for the life of your dog.

The program includes follow up to insure your happiness and success.    
We are always available to help dogs that have completed our training.

The cost for training is $3,495.00 + NYS sales tax.   If you are interested in enrolling your dog in the program, please complete the webform.  We need to have your application electronically on record in order to keep track of your dog's place on our waiting list.

Dog Training Application

1 Week Refresher Training

This program is for dogs that have completed the 2.5 weeks program. 


We understand that sometimes life gets hectic and situations can arise that may cause training to sink on our lists of priorities. It is easy to get side-tracked.

This one-week program refreshes your dog’s training, building on the foundation from the first board and train.

$1,295 + NYS sales tax. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my dog miss me?

Who will train my and care for my dog?

What is a typical day like?

 Your dog will be happy and busy the entire time he/she is at New Skete.    There is plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep your dog engaged and content as well as time for rest.  You are welcome to bring your dog’s favorite bedding or blanket along with a special toy.  


When you return to pick up your dog and have your hands-on training, your dog will be thrilled to show you all he/she has learned.

What is a typical day like?

Who will train my and care for my dog?

What is a typical day like?

 Your dog will get three to four formal sessions and several informal session over the course of the day.

These will include learning to walk politely on leash and the other basic training skills, distraction training, and off-leash work that focuses on reliable recall.


This integrated program is designed to make your dog the companion you dreamed of. 

Who will train my and care for my dog?

Who will train my and care for my dog?

Who will train my and care for my dog?

 Your dog will be trained and cared for by the Monks of New Skete.  


Brother Christopher, Director of Training, is a long-standing Hall of Fame member of the International Association of Canine Professionals.  


For over 40 years, New Skete, has dedicated itself to providing the best possible companion dogs for you and your family.


Click here to view training team.

Do I stay at the monastery?

What do I have to do once I get my dog home?

Who will train my and care for my dog?

New Skete offers a board and train program for your dog.  Some refer to this type of program as a training camp.

Prior to your appointment we will schedule an online meeting to discuss your dog's behavior and review an average day at New Skete Training.  At the time of scheduled drop-off you will meet with one of the trainers and ask any last minute questions.  Prior to your dog's return home, we will schedule an online meeting with one of the brothers.  At your scheduled pick-up one of the trainers will work with you until you are comfortable with the commands and using the training tools.


You do not stay at the monastery.

What do I have to do once I get my dog home?

What do I have to do once I get my dog home?

What do I have to do once I get my dog home?

During your online Go-Home meeting, you will be presented with a plan for continuing your dog's training at home. This plan includes printed and video materials, and  covers general information such as getting started, the ten commands, review of the go-to place command, information on the e-collar, and training exercises specifically for you and your dog. 


If you follow the program consistently, you will reinforce the training which has already taken place and will continue to build a relationship with your dog that is mutually fulfilling. 

Support for the life of your dog?

What do I have to do once I get my dog home?

What do I have to do once I get my dog home?

Our training includes support for the life of your dog.  

The program includes follow up to insure your happiness and success.


Upon returning home with your dog, should you have questions, simply email us.  We will email, call, Zoom, use videos, or schedule a visit to address your questions.   

Training Application

The Training Team

Brother Christopher - Director of Training

Brother Christopher has over 40 years experience as a dog trainer.  He is the primary author of the dog training books written by the monks.  Brother Christopher is a Hall of Fame member of the International Association of Canine Professionals.  

Dog trainer Tom O'Hanlon with Kuma a Belgian Shepherd

Tom - Senior Trainer

Tom has worked at New Skete Dog Training for over nine years.  Tom attended a workshop hosted at New Skete, and then became an apprentice under Brother Christopher's tutelage. Tom holds a degree in psychology, but his passion for helping dogs and their owners led him to becoming a dog trainer.  Tom is a member of  the International Association of Canine Professionals.

Dog trainer Sarah with a Daschund

Sarah - Dog Trainer

Sarah is a graduate of the Canine Training and Management Program from SUNY Cobleskill.  She has been a member of the training team at New Skete for over three years now.  Sarah is also a pet photographer.  Sarah is a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals.  


Click here to see "The Faces of New Skete Dog Training" photos by Sarah.

Brother Brennan, dog trainer, with German Shepherd Dog

Brother Brennan - Dog Trainer/Monastic Postulant

Brother Brennan recently joined the monastery on his monastic journey.  His love of dogs and thoughtful approach to training makes him a wonderful addition to the training team.

Brother Steven - Dog Trainer/Monastic Postulant

Brother Steven, pictured here with New Skete Shepherd, Tori, is the newest member of the training team. Brother Steven brings his compassionate care for all beings, from his previous career healthcare.

Josh - AM Kennel Attendant

Josh has been part of the New Skete Training team for over nine years.  Josh wears multiple hats for the monastery.  After tending to the dogs in the training program he handles all maintenance projects for the monks and is also their cook.

Ida - Training Coordinator/Assistant

Ida has been employed by New Skete Monasteries as their Director of Marketing and Communications for over 12 years.  Shortly after beginning her employment with New Skete she was asked to assist the training team with coordinating the training schedule and working with the clients.

Client Feedback

happy dog trotting on pavement dragging leash

 Dear Brother Christopher,

​Susa has been a joy to have at home.  We train every day and she seems to love the exercises.  As you can see from the picture, she has become quite enthusiastic about coming when called (and all her other exercises).  Thanks again for your wonderful work with her.

Best Wishes
Anne & Nelson 

little girl walking large dog on wooded path

 Couldn't resist our snapping these pictures! 

Our 4 & 3/4 year old (as she says) granddaughter loves Greta and had her sit and heel today.  We thought they both did very well, and thought we would share it with you. 


This was spur of the moment and without "tools."  We just received the new charger, and will be using  it as soon as it is revved up.

Mary 

The Maurice Sendak Training Building at New Skete

Maurice Sendak

 

Maurice Sendak was a dear friend of New Skete for many years. Not only was he a lover of all things dog, he saw clearly their spiritual importance and how they can enrich our lives when they are cared for and loved. Maurice included his dogs in each of his books, and their presence reflects just how vital they were to his inspiration.


We are blessed to have known his friendship and support, and through the generosity of the Maurice Sendak Foundation we honor his legacy and keep his memory eternal.

The Building

 The new training facility is a 6,144 square feet, modest barn-style building.  The design features geo-thermal heated floors, and an indoor training area for times of inclement weather.  Each dog is housed in its own kennel and run.  Dogs can see their neighbor in the next run.  Safety and comfort are key in the design. 

The Grounds

 New Skete is a small monastery located near the quaint village of Cambridge, approximately one hour north of Albany, New York.  The monastery and the training kennel are found on a gentle slope of Two Top Mountain. 

Morning and afternoon walks on the mountain road ensure that your dog is getting adequate exercise during his/her stay here.  Play sessions in our fenced yard further your dog's experience and are coupled with informal training.

Training Application

Dog Training Workshops and Seminars

E-Collar Workshop with the Monks of New Skete and Marc Goldberg

Marc Goldberg and Brother Christopher with New Skete German Shepherds in New York City

Based upon their highly rated book, The Art of Training Your Dog: How to Gently Teach Good Behavior Using an E-Collar, this workshop is appropriate for beginner and experienced e-collar users.  


Perfect for anyone that would like to learn the unique and detailed method taught in the book with all the authors' professional shortcuts to move things along quicker.  

Work with a New Skete dog, bring your own dog, or participate without handling a dog.  


When: June 13 to 17, 2023

Where: Monks of New Skete, Cambridge, NY


Find out more

Contact Us

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No entry into the training center without appointment.

To view a training session, we invite you to attend one of our annual events, at which you will see a dog training demo.

New Skete Dog Training

(518) 677-3928 ext 215

Employment Opportunity

Kennel Attendant - Full Time

  Click here for details

Three golden retriever dogs

 We are committed to making our products and services accessible to everyone. We strive to follow WCAG accessibility standards, and have placed our website through evaluation and testing tools to maintain compliance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. If you have any difficulties accessing or utilizing any portion of our site, please contact Ida Williams at nscom@newskete.org  to assist you or to give feedback regarding improvements we may wish to consider in ensuring accessibility. 


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