Our Mission
To build a meaningful and happy relationship between you and your canine friend through a positive training experience!
Personable and Affordable. Highly Rated. Experienced, Certified, and Dedicated to Your Success.
Training humans and their dogs in the greater Bismarck-Mandan, North Dakota area
Lead Trainer
Preston VanLoon, Ed.D., CDT-C, AKC CGC Evaluator
I love being a dog trainer. If I knew I would like training this much, I would have reconsidered my career path many years ago.
When working with a dog and its owner, I give 110% of my effort in the training. My hope is that dog owners would have the same commitment; your dog is worth it. I intentionally keep my rates among the lowest around. In fact, a client once told me that I do not charge enough. Truth be told, I want as many people as possible to have that special bond with their dog as I do with mine.
However, I am not a magician. I cannot do what responsible dog owners must do with their dogs. Taking the time to practice the skills taught in training on a regular and consistent basis is the only way to teach obedience skills and build a happy and strong relationship with your canine friend. You only get out of your training what you put into it.
Believe me, dogs want to learn! Your dog wants to please you and trusts that you will give it the care and guidance it needs to be your best friend and live in a human world. When my kids were young, I used to tell them “you’re only as good as the effort you give.” The same is true when it comes to training your dog.
A dog can only be trained to the degree that its owner is willing to learn and do what is in the best interest of the dog. Perhaps that’s why I embrace the saying that “with proper training, a human can be a dog’s best friend.”
I would love to help you build a “rock solid” bond with your dog too.
Professional Dog Training Services
“With proper training, a human can become a dog’s best friend.”
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Group Training
In group training the owner and dog learn skills in a class setting with other dogs and their owners. Group training allows the dog to experience socialization alongside other dogs. Different classes are offered throughout the year including puppy, basic and advanced obedience, and the AKC CGC class and test.
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Private Training
RSDT provides private training for those who prefer a personalized approach. Training is tailored to the specific needs of the dog and owner based on a Dog Training Goals Questionnaire that is completed prior to training. In private training, you get 100% of the trainer’s attention for the entire session.
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Rocky, The Therapy Dog
Rocky is an experienced certified therapy dog who keeps very busy visiting people of all ages. His therapy dog work takes him to schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and other places that welcome and appreciate the comfort, happiness, and emotional support that a loving and friendly therapy dog can bring.
What are people saying about Rock Solid Dog Training?
What are people saying about Rock Solid Dog Training?
“Preston is an experienced trainer who is committed to helping owners and their dogs develop a positive relationship. It is obvious that he loves dogs and loves his job as a trainer. My husband and I found Preston to be patient, encouraging, and committed to the success of (our dog) Murphy's training sessions. We highly recommend Rock Solid Dog Training.”
“We had an amazing experience with this service and highly recommend Rock Solid Dog Training to anyone. Preston is wonderful to work with and is kind and thoughtful and great with dogs (and people). You will more than get your money's worth with his program and he provides you with all of the training and materials needed to continue your dog's training journey well beyond your time with him. Preston is professional and prepared and a delight to work with. We couldn't be happier!”
“Preston patiently explains and works with his students to pass on his knowledge in a way that you understand and can apply with your pup. We loved the group session we participated in, learned a LOT and had so much fun. I want to continue learning more from Preston and working with my pups.”
“Preston is a very experienced, knowledgeable and caring dog trainer! He genuinely cares about you as well as your dog! He’s great at helping you bond with your dogs as you both learn and grow together!”
Dog Training for Humans
Check out Preston’s weekly training tips on Dog Training for Humans every Thursday morning on North Dakota Today (KFYR - TV). Each week Preston and Rocky introduce a different dog training topic that you might find helpful for training your dog. Topics include Socialization, Barking, Leash-pulling, Jumping, Heel, Sit, Stay, and even some tricks.
Click here to see more training videos from Dog Training for Humans.
Socialization
Jumping
Heel
Rocky, The Therapy Dog
Rocky is a Certified Therapy Dog. He achieved the “Supreme” title for Therapy Dogs, the highest level with the American Kennel Club, with over 600 therapy dog visits. He is also at the Advanced Level for Trick Dogs with the AKC. Rocky is also recognized as a Reading Dog for Children’s Programs and has participated in Dock Dog competition. Rocky and his owner serve as an Animal Visitation team with Service to the Armed Forces for the American Red Cross. Rocky has four books written about his work as a therapy dog: three illustrated children’s books and a small chapter book for dog lovers of all ages.
CONTACT US:
Email: RSDT4U@gmail.com
Call: 701-751-3434