5 months and older

Invisible Leash® Level 1

The starting point for dogs five months and older, combining one-on-one instruction with small classes to build the core Invisible Leash® communication system.

Original Program Info

Get started today

Schedule a free evaluation

Eliminate jumping, barking, pulling, and chaos behaviors

Build clear command language and consistency

Prepares dogs and owners for off-leash progression

Level 1 is the starting point for all dogs five months and older. It combines private instruction and group classes so owners get one-on-one help first, then practice around mild distractions in a controlled class setting.

The program is the first step in the Invisible Leash® training system and is designed to stop unwanted behavior, build communication, establish owner leadership, and prepare the dog for future off-leash work.

If a dog is younger than five months, the Puppy Program is the better starting point.

The school positions Level 1 as the first step for transforming an older puppy, adult dog, or rescue into a better-behaved family member through the full Invisible Leash® system.

Dog sitting near a stop sign during basic obedience training — Foundation control, manners, and leash reliability.

Four core elements

Behavior problems have to be addressed before obedience can be reliable. A dog cannot be trained effectively while jumping, pulling, barking, or ignoring the owner.

Level 1 gives owner and dog a shared language, household structure, and the first step toward control without relying on the leash.

The program is intentionally sequenced: behavior first, communication next, then leadership and preparation for future off-leash reliability.

Eliminate problem behavior before layering in commands
Build a communication system the dog and owner both understand
Establish owner leadership and household structure
Prepare the dog to respond on leash and, later, without the leash

First private lesson

The private first session lets the trainer evaluate the dog, address problem behavior, and give the owner the system used throughout the program.

Proper and effective management techniques
How to structure the relationship so the dog looks to the owner as leader
The Invisible Leash® four-word communication system
How to stop unwanted behavior fast

Program details

Level 1 starts with a private session at the facility. That first appointment lets the trainer evaluate the dog, address behavior issues, and prepare the owner before entering group classes.

The private session is followed by four small half-hour group classes. Classes run on a continuous rotation, so owners can start with any class, miss a week when needed, and choose class times that fit their schedule.

Current Level 1 class times listed by the school include Mondays at 10:45am and 4:30pm, Tuesdays at 5:00pm and 6:30pm, Thursdays at 6:00pm, and Saturdays at 10:00am, 10:45am, and 11:30am.

Proper and effective management techniques
How to structure the relationship so the dog looks to the owner as leader
A four-word communication system
How to stop unwanted behavior fast
Stationary commands: sit, down, stand, and stay
Recall around distractions
Polite leash walking in quiet and busy environments
Settle on command and go to place
Reinforcement of good manners and prevention of future behavior problems
Free follow-up class when needed, currently held Saturdays at 1:00pm
24/7 online Level 1 course access while enrolled
A free copy of Eric's Invisible Leash® book

Getting started

Enrollment is simple.

Enrollment is ongoing, so owners do not need to wait for a new class to begin.

The first private session is scheduled at a convenient time. After that lesson, the owner can schedule the four group training classes and receive online course access.

Owners can call 774-319-6351 to schedule the first private lesson or book a free no-obligation evaluation to tour the facility, ask questions, and check fit.

Success stories

Trained across MA & RI.

Hailey described a large young Labrador with jumping, biting, and barking issues who became calmer and easier for the family to enjoy after starting training.

Hailey Taylor

Michael brought four dogs through the program and emphasized that the training improved both the dogs and the family's handling habits.

Michael Hammarquist

Michaela saw significant leash-walking improvement with her Bernese Mountain Dog after struggling with pulling in earlier training classes elsewhere.

Michaela Caizzi

Program questions

What to know before you start.

What if my dog is reactive around other dogs?

The first session is private, so the trainer can evaluate and address reactivity before the dog enters a group environment.

My dog already knows basic commands. Is Level 1 still useful?

Usually yes. Level 1 is about the full communication system and behavior structure, not just teaching a few stationary commands.

What if my dog is very timid?

Group classes are small, and behavior issues are addressed before entering the group environment. For most dogs, the group setting helps build confidence.