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Included in the Dream Dog Program

Private Lessons


Part of the Program, Not Sold on Their Own

★★★★★4.9 · 201 Reviews·Best of Westchester 2025 & 2026·Valhalla, NY Facility
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Quick Answer

Private lessons at Sit Means Sit Dog Training of Westchester are included in every Dream Dog Program. They are not a separate program and are not sold on their own. At every Day Train pickup, you get one-on-one time with your dog's trainer and learn the same language your dog is learning. We have found that private lessons on their own are not as effective as lessons combined with immersive training days for your dog and lifetime group class, so we only offer them as part of the program.

Private Lessons Are Part of the Dream Dog Program

Private lessons are not a separate program.

Every Dream Dog Program includes them. You can't buy lessons on their own. They come with the full program.

Why We Don't Sell Private Lessons on Their Own

We've found that private lessons on their own aren't as effective as lessons combined with immersive training for your dog and group class. A lesson shows you what to do, but your dog needs full days of work with a professional to make new behavior stick, and real-world distractions to prove it holds up. When all three work together, dogs make faster, longer-lasting progress. So we only offer private lessons as part of the program.

How Private Lessons Fit Into the Program

  1. Immersive training for your dog. Your dog spends one full day per week at our Valhalla, NY facility with a certified trainer through Day Train.
  2. Private lessons for you. At every pickup, your trainer works with you one-on-one on what your dog learned that day, so you speak the same language at home.
  3. Group class for both of you. Group class, included for the life of your dog, is where you practice together around real-world distractions.

What Your Private Lessons Cover

  • Foundational obedience: sit, down, stay, come, and heel
  • Leash manners and off-leash reliability
  • Jumping, barking, and nuisance behaviors
  • Dog and people aggression
  • Anxiety and reactivity
  • Owner handling that carries over into daily life

Want private lessons for your dog? They come with the Dream Dog Program. Call us at (914) 687-5532 or schedule your call with our Training Advisor, Emily, below.

Schedule Your Call with Our Training Advisor, Emily ›

Free PDF Guide

Why Most Westchester & Connecticut DogsDon’t Need Board and Train

Before you commit to weeks away, read this. It’s the same framework we use in every evaluation.

  • ✓The 5-factor framework we use to evaluate board and train fit
  • ✓Why day training often gets better results
  • ✓4 common board and train myths — and what's actually true
  • ✓Questions to ask any trainer before you commit

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Frequently Asked Questions — Private Lessons

Can I buy private lessons on their own?+

No. Private lessons are part of the Dream Dog Program and are not sold separately. We have found that lessons on their own are not as effective as lessons combined with immersive training days for your dog and group class around real-world distractions.

When do my private lessons happen?+

At every Day Train pickup. Your dog spends the day training at our Valhalla, NY facility, and when you arrive, your trainer works with you one-on-one on what your dog learned that day.

Are private lessons just for the dog?+

No. Private lessons are for you. You work alongside your dog and your trainer and learn the same commands your dog is learning, so the training holds up at home.

What if my goal is tied to my home?+

We coach you at every pickup and send a home plan, so the training holds at your front door and with guests.

How It Works

  1. 1Schedule your free training-fit call
  2. 2Talk with Emily about your dog and goals
  3. 3Choose the right training plan or in-person evaluation

★★★★★4.9 Stars · 201 Reviews

🏆 Best of Westchester 2025 & 2026

📍 5,000 Sq Ft Facility — Valhalla, NY

Premium training for owners ready for a structured plan. Serving Westchester and nearby Fairfield County owners from our Valhalla facility.

ANY AGE. ANY BREED. ANY PROBLEM.

We train all dogs, regardless of age, breed, or behavioral issue. Whether you're starting your puppy on a path to lifelong success or teaching your older dog new skills, we've got you covered.

OBEDIENCE & BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT

We provide individualized one-on-one dog training programs tailored to meet your unique goals and specific needs.

GROUP TRAINING

Our follow-up group training continues after our one-on-one programs to ensure you and your dog keep achieving your goals.

Verified Google Reviews · 4.9★ from 201

We train you, not just your dog

“Neil, Sam, and Dana are outstanding dog trainers, but more importantly exceptional people trainers. … When we first started the program Oakley was high energy/anxiety, a leash puller, barker, and would not respond to come without a reward. However, by week 8 Oakley follows commands off leash, is pleasant to walk and run with, and listens without fail.”
Matt F.Google review
“Neil not only has the expertise to train your dog, but more importantly the patience and knowledge to train YOU. … After spending quite a bit of money elsewhere, I wish I had started with SMS!”
Danielle K.Google review
“A huge thank you goes to Neil and Emily, for running such an outstanding, organized program. … You didn't just train Daisy; you gave me the tools and confidence to communicate with her effectively.”
Peter W.Google review
“My dog started having some behavioral changes after she turned one, right around her “teenage years.” … I love how patient the trainers were and their willingness to teach my whole family how to handle our dog.”
Kristie B.Google review
“Everything about their instruction is focused on both the person and their dog learning TOGETHER, not simply drilling commands.”
Jennifer S.Google review
“The team at Sit Means Sit gave me back my life, my dogs, and my sanity. … Pulling on leash, barking constantly, reactivity to other dogs/animals, screaming, you name it. … I no longer have overwhelming anxiety when leaving my apartment to walk them and wonder what horrible thing will happen next.”
Christina F.Google review
Marc and his dog, Sasha, share their story of change and happiness with Sit Means Sit.