Select the ideal group class for your dog by setting goals for your dog’s training and then browsing our site. If you are interested in basic manners, control, and obedience, our Manners classes will be ideal. If you are looking for training for your puppy, sign up for our Puppy Manners classes!

If you just want to have some fun or increase your bond with your dog, consider one of the FUN classes we offer:

• Nose Work for FUN
• Intro to Barn Hunt
• Game Up Skill Up

If you have a dog that is being reactive barking, lunging or being unruly around dogs or strangers, contact us or schedule a behavior consult! We’ll help place your dog in the class that fits him best or may suggest Day Training, or our comprehensive Stay & Train programs.

Our group training classes are held year-round at our Daycare & Training Center which is located at:

406 Hershey Rd.
Elizabethtown, PA 17022

We do offer a wide variety of other dog training services, including Day Training and Stay & Train programs at both of our Elizabethtown, PA locations

For Puppy Manners group class, puppies must be up to date for their age, with at least the first set of DHPP shots, usually given between 6-8 weeks of age. Veterinarians will suggest different guidelines for your puppy, so please take their advice into consideration. We also require Bordetella vaccine.

We agree with the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s Position statement: “In general, puppies can start puppy socialization classes as early as 7-8 weeks of age. Puppies should receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days prior to the first class and a first de-worming. They should be kept up to date throughout the class.”

For non-puppy classes, all dogs must have: the following vaccines:

• DHPP
• Rabies
• Bordetella

We also suggest an H3N2 canine flu vaccine, but it is not required.

For the first class you will need to provide your vaccination records. We prefer you email them to daycare@playfulpupsretreat.com ahead of time.

• Small treats (about the size of a fingernail) – something like chopped up pieces of low-fat hotdogs, string cheese or any other high-value soft treat that agrees with your dog.
• A hungry dog. Please don’t feed your dog for at least 4 hours before class. If you have a highly food-motivated dog, then your trainer may advise you to give them half their food rations before class.
• A standard 6ft leash and nylon collar or body harness. **Please no flexi leads!
• If you are already using a head collar, such as a Gentle Leader or Halti, then bring that too. If you are planning on using a head collar, please do not put it on your dog for the first time just before class. Your dog will spend the first session feeling uncomfortable and trying to remove it. Our trainer can give guidance on the best way to acclimate a dog to this new tool.
• A water bowl and water. Training makes a dog thirsty, and a stressed dog can also get thirsty. Don’t forget water for yourself!

At this time we do not offer In-home dog training. This is a consideration to add to our services in 2026 so please watch for more information.

We do work closely with two local dog trainers who offer private training services. If you require in-home dog training services please reach out and we can provide a referral to one of them, based on your specific needs.

Positive reinforcement means you are giving the dog something it likes whereas Positive Punishment means you are giving the dog something it does not like.

At Playful Pups, we follow the LIMA method (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive). This is a dog training philosophy that prioritizes using the gentlest, least confrontational methods that are still effective.

We work to minimize stress and maximize fun! Dogs do not seek to avoid or escape the methods we use, so yes, we are positive trainers. We NEVER inflict mental or physical harm on any dog. Our methods are educational, instructional, effective and efficient and most importantly they are user friendly. Friendly for the dog and friendly for the owner.

Yes! If your dog is only partially deaf, then we can still use the clicker or the word ‘yes’. If your puppy or dog is completely deaf, then we use hand signals or other visual cue to teach them desired behaviors. We love working with all dogs including those that have unique challenges!

Our class fees are typically non-refundable, but if you realize you will be unable to attend the class please notify us at least 72 hours before the first day of class. This way, we can schedule other clients who may have been waiting for an opening. If you fail to give us notice that you cannot make it to your class, the regular class rate will still be charged.