Canine Training
Positive, science-based training from certified professionals. We only work with credentialed trainers who are accountable to the highest standards.
Why Certification Matters
Dog training is an unregulated industry — anyone can call themselves a trainer with no required education, certification, or professional oversight. We set a higher bar.
Godfrey's works exclusively with certified trainers. Our Puppy Start Right instructor, Nicole Weersing, is certified through the Karen Pryor Academy, widely regarded as one of the most rigorous and science-based schools for positive dog trainers. KPA graduates must demonstrate proficiency across species — because the principles of learning apply to any living organism.
Our Philosophy
We believe every dog can become an active, valued member of your family.
We use only positive, reward-based training grounded in the science of how animals learn. Our methods are built on clicker training — a technique where desirable behavior is marked with a sound, then reinforced, making that behavior more likely to be repeated.
This approach is fun, clear, and kind. It works because it communicates precisely with your dog, builds confidence, and strengthens the bond between dog and family. We never use fear, intimidation, or punishment-based techniques.
Training Programs
Puppy Start Right Preschool™
Get your puppy off on the right paw with Karen Pryor's science-based curriculum. No orientation session required — just bring your pup between 7 and 12 weeks of age. Early socialization and learning shapes who your dog becomes.
For more information for our Puppy StartRight PreSchool, or to register, email us at [email protected] or call us at 610-777-5755.
***If your puppy has aged out of our Puppy Start Right Program (older than 12 weeks of age), then get registered in a group class offered here at Godfrey's. ***
To learn more about them, see section on this page titled “Group Classes.” The next class after our Puppy Start Right program would be Megan's “The Clever Hound” group class.
ABOUT OUR PUPPY START RIGHT PRESCHOOL INCLUDES:
- (4) sessions here at Godfrey's led by Nicole Weersing, PSR Certified Instructor
- “Puppy Start Right” book, clicker, and treat pouch
- On-demand video examples to see step-by-step training
- Problem prevention topics
- Positive reinforcement training
- Puppy play and exploration!
Call Godfrey's at 610-777-5755 for more information about this great program. Or better yet, stop in to talk with us about it. You can register your pup, make payment for this program, and get your book, treat pouch, and clicker! Nicole, the instructor, is in the shop Wednesday afternoons, Fridays, and Saturdays if you would like to chat with her about the program.
Group Classes
Offered by Megan Esherick, CPDT-KA CTDI, of Clever Hound Dog Training at our location at Godfrey's-Welcome to Dogdom! Available sessions include Scent Work, Clever Dog Obedience, Advanced Clever Dog, Life Skills, AKC Rally Novice, and AKC Rally for Competition and more! Classes run on weekdays and evenings.
To see her current group class offerings, visit her web site at https://cleverhounddogtraining.com/group-classes/ and look for the classes being held at Godfrey's!
To read more about Megan and her professional experience, visit https://cleverhounddogtraining.com/about/
For more information or to register, send an email to Megan at [email protected].
Private 1-on-1 Sessions
Personalized one-on-one training with Megan Esherick at Godfrey's on Thursday and Friday afternoons. Ideal for dogs with specific behavioral goals or owners who prefer a dedicated, focused session.
For more information and to register, email Megan at [email protected].
AKC Rally & Dog Sports
Ready to compete? AKC Rally Novice and Rally for Competition classes give you and your dog the skills, confidence, and teamwork needed for the ring — or just a great bond at home.
For more information or to register, contact Megan Esherick at [email protected].
Our Trainers
Every instructor at Godfrey's holds recognized credentials in positive reinforcement training.
Megan Esherick
Group Classes & Private Sessions
Clever Hound Dog Training
Megan is the owner of Clever Hound Dog Training and offers group classes at Godfrey's on weekdays and evenings, covering Scent Work, Obedience & Life Skills, and AKC Rally. She also holds private 1-on-1 sessions on Thursday and Friday afternoons at Godfrey's.
Nicole Weersing
Puppy Start Right Instructor
KPA Certified Instructor
Nicole is a certified Karen Pryor "Puppy Start Right" program instructor, having completed her certification in June 2015 and subsequently mentored under Pat Emmett. She has a passion for getting puppies started right and helping families become better dog parents. Nicole also serves as Play Park Coordinator and FitPaws® Wellness and Conditioning coach at Godfrey's.
Ready to Get Started?
Stop in to learn about current class schedules, or give us a call. Whether you have a new puppy or a dog who could use a little polish, we have a program for you.