About Us

I've always had a passion for dogs. Growing up, I had a variety of mixed breed dogs and purebred dogs that were part of my family. I have been training dogs for tricks and obedience competitions since I was a little girl. I started out using “traditional” obedience training methods, which involve correcting a dog with a training collar when they do something wrong. Then, my obedience dog Trevor totally shut down. He didn’t want to work anymore. In fact, he would run away when he saw me bring out his training collar. So I looked for something different, and I found it. It’s called clicker training.

Clicker training is a way of communicating with your dog that you liked what he just did. Trevor loved it and so did I! I didn’t even have to put a collar or leash on him. Our training progressed rapidly. We started winning more and more often and in just a few months I was competing at the highest level of obedience competition with a very happy Trevor at my side.

This was one powerful training tool! I spent the next 15 years studying the science of applied animal learning theory on which clicker training is based. I’ve used this method to train a variety of species – dogs, cats, horses, chickens, rats, rabbits, beluga whales, dolphins and birds of prey. Because it’s based on the science of how animals learn, complex, high-level behaviors can be trained without anything other than a clicker and a treat.

New Levels Dog Training was created to help owners train their dogs with reward-based, positive methods and to help them resolve behavior problems quickly and effectively. Our methods are based on the sciences of learning theory and positive reinforcement, also known as reward-based training or “clicker” training. Reward-based methods are humane, effective and avoid the use of punishment, force or restraint. Because these methods are based on how animals learn, communication between you and your dog is easy. Your dog learns quickly and the results are long lasting.

These methods are force-free and dog-friendly. They use treats, toys and life rewards to communicate with your dog. Reward or reinforcement training has strong scientific research supporting its long-term benefits. Your dog is rewarded for his cooperation and, as a bonus, your relationship is strengthened. Using these gentle but effective methods, your dog will learn to make intelligent choices. The training experience will be fun and successful for you both. You’ll soon be living with a calm, happy and attentive dog who willingly offers the behaviors you want.

Linda Monico Credentials

Bachelors of Science, State University of New York

Professional Certifications:

Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers certificate # 4071460.

Counseling and Training Certificate (CTC) honors graduate - from the San Francisco Academy for Dog Trainers

Professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), member # 69869

Licensed presenter for Doggone Safe national dog bite prevention program

Certified TAGteach instructor

Certified Agility Instructor - from White Mountain Agility School

Certified AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator # 34647

For over 20 years I have trained, competed and titled dogs in competitive obedience, competitive agility and conformation. I am an avid participant in dog sports and regularly compete with my own dogs. With the help of clicker training, my dogs and I have attained advanced titles, national placements and incredible working relationships based on trust and effective communication.

The certifications I hold require an in-depth knowledge of behavioral science, animal behavior and behavior modification techniques. I believe it is critical to keep current with the latest research and studies on dog behavior and learning theory. Each year I attend conferences, seminars and workshops to add to my knowledge and skills. I seek out opportunities to learn new training methods that I can share with students and clients. I have had the great honor of learning firsthand from some of the world’s top animal trainers and behaviorists. And, my experience includes working with countless dog owners and hundreds of dogs of various breeds and temperaments in both home and shelter environments.

My goal is to help you train your dog and resolve behavior problems without punishing, forcing or stressing your dog. Using positive, reward-based training methods you will find training your dog to be easy, effective and fun for both of you!

Contact Linda Monico for more information.