Current Classes Offered at the APF:

Puppy Basics

Adolescent Basics

Basic Manners 101

Basic Manners 102

Canine Good Citizen

Therapy Dog International



Upcoming Classes

Our approach to training is a motivational one, always using positive reinforcement to achieve success. Training with the APF also helps homeless pets, as 50% of your tuition benefits the shelter. The minimum age for handling is 16 years old if accompanied by an adult. Take a look at our class calendar or click the class title for the session you are interested in for more information and to register. [tribe_events view=”list” category=”training”]

Meet The Trainers





Kathy Snowden ABCDT has been involved with dog training and the APF for over 20 years. Her commitment to training evolved from seeing first hand so many dogs given up because of behavioral issues that the owners did not know how to address. Kathy develops and continues to update the training program to meet the needs of the dogs and the dog owners. Her goal is to keep the dogs in their homes and to help bridge the communication gap between human and canine. Kathy is a certified AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. Kathy is certified by the Animal Behavior College as a Dog Trainer and a Shelter Dog Trainer. She also serves as a mentor to future dog trainers with the Animal Behavioral College.





Cydney Cross teaches Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog International classes at the APF. She is co-founder and president of Out of the Pits, an organization for the education, rescue and placement of “America’s favorite dog,” the American pit bull terrier. Cyd is often asked to serve as an expert witness for court cases and for the evaluation of dangerous dogs. Highly committed to keeping pets in their homes, one of her specialties is working through the challenges that put dogs at risk for relinquishment. Cyd is a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), and is an adjunct professor at the SUNY Cobleskill Dog Training program.





Sheila Leguire ABCDT has been affiliated with the APF since 2015 as a Canine Academy instructor as well as working with staff and volunteers in training shelter dogs. Sheila specializes in behavior modification training and canine body language. Sheila believes the more owners learn about how to understand their dog’s behavior as well as putting them in appropriate social situations will set them up for success. Sheila’s goal with the addition of the Adolescent Basics course is to continue a transition from puppy class through the behavioral changes as dogs mature and how to meet those needs through proper socialization. Sheila is certified by the Animal Behavior College.





Registration Requirements

  • Proof of rabies and distemper vaccinations are required.
  • Bordetella (for kennel cough) is highly recommended, but is not a requirement.
  • Flea and tick prevention is recommended but is not required
Your veterinarian may fax records to us at (518) 346-2120 Attn: Canine Academy.

 Spay/Neuter

With the exception of Puppy classes, all dogs enrolled in Canine Academy training classes must be spayed or neutered.

 Special Discounts

  • APF dog adopters receive a one-time $25 discount off their first training course. Offer good for one year from adoption date.

50% of Canine Academy tuition benefits the shelter!

Cancellation and Refund Policy

We often have waiting lists for our classes. In fairness to all, refunds minus a $10 processing fee will be provided only if the cancellation is made prior to 48-hours before the first class. (Example: If class begins on Monday, cancellation must be received by the previous Friday.)