Transform Your Dog into a Calm, Confident Companion. Book a Free Evaluation

Special Services

Sport Dog Training

From puppy to advanced, plan-driven training that delivers consistent results and visible progress, available as private lessons or small groups.
Get certified expert advice

5.0
from 200+ reviews

300+

dogs trained
First Free Evaluation
100% of Dogs We Board Have Trained with Us
A Tailored Plan for Every Case
3–4 Dogs per Trainer
Free Evaluation
100% of Dogs We Board Have Trained with Us
A Tailored Plan for Every Case
Serving Bucks County and surrounding areas since 1996
Real Achievements

Our Visible Results, Backed by Experience

Hundreds of dogs trained, countless lives improved.

35+ years

combined experience training family, competition, and professional service dogs.

Serving Bucks County and surrounding areas since 1996.
Visible results after

1-3 sessions

50 dogs

trained in the last 12 months
Pet Services

Canine Pet Services in New Hope

Transform your dog’s behavior with expert-led, personalized lessons
Beyond the training itself, I gained a lot of respect for Sean as a person. Knowing your trainer is someone of integrity and genuinely cares makes a huge difference.
Brian F.
Client
Sport Dog Training
Special Services
Contact Us:

Sport Dog Training

We offer:

  • Private 1:1 classes for all three phases of IGP — whether you are competing at the club, regional, national, or world level
  • Evaluations for your current dog's suitability for the sport
  • Tailored board & train programs to prepare your dog for competition
  • An upcoming IGP club at our property in New Hope, PA — ask us about getting involved!

I can still hear one of my greatest teachers and mentors (T. Floyd) saying this to me over 3 decades ago:

"IGP dog sport is without a doubt one of the best avenues to learning and understanding dog training."

Dog sport offers a training platform where the handler must perform with their dog in three separate phases: tracking, obedience, and protection. Each phase is judged while the handler and dog perform multiple exercises, all governed by specific rules that keep the playing field equal. It's not only about completing the exercises — how they are performed matters just as much. This requires deep knowledge of the dog's genetics, temperament, drives, strengths, and weaknesses.

One of the greatest benefits of dog sport is that it allows you to maximize your dog's potential. It also puts pressure on the dog, which reveals characteristics that are either favorable or unfavorable — making it an excellent breed suitability test for the working dog. IGP was originally developed for this purpose and has proven to be one of the most effective tests over many decades. The sport continues to grow and evolve, pushing trainers to become more skilled and develop better dogs — a win-win for humans and canine alike.

Absolute Canine is able to offer this instruction because Sean Rivera has actually been there and done it. Please refer to his bio for his full list of accomplishments and achievements.

Ready to Begin Your Dog’s Training Journey?

Get a free evaluation and custom plan trusted, positive-led training approach.
Trusted Dog Trainers
Our Benefits

Why Dog Lovers Trust Absolute Canine

We bring more than just training. We build a lifestyle for you and your dog. With tailored programs, expert trainers, and a supportive community, we help transform behaviour, deepen your bond, and make everyday living joyful and confident.
100% of dogs we board have trained with us
This ensures a safe, structured environment where every dog understands the same rules, making boarding calm, consistent, and stress-free.
A tailored plan for every case
We design your dog’s program based on temperament, history, and your specific goals.
Training in small groups of 3–4 dogs per trainer
Smaller groups mean more attention, faster progress, and better outcomes.
Transparent, hands-on training. We teach you to train your dog
You’ll be part of every step, learning how to communicate and lead confidently.
Proven methods that build calm
Responsive behavior in any setting
 Real-world results through balanced, reward-based training backed by decades of success.
“What made Absolute Canine stand out was their honesty. They never sold the fantasy of a magically perfect dog in a few weeks. They made it clear that what I put in is what I’d get out, and they were absolutely right.”
Melissa S.
Client
Certifications & Accreditations

Professional Standards
You Can Trust

Problems we solve

Real Solutions for
Real Dog Problems

Helping dogs and owners overcome everyday challenges together.

I can’t walk my dog without getting pulled around.

Every walk turns into a battle. I just want calm, easy walks.

My dog overreacts to other dogs or people.

Barking, lunging, and tension make outings stressful and unpredictable.

My dog jumps on everyone who walks through the door.

I’m embarrassed when guests arrive. I want polite, calm greetings.

My dog panics when
I leave.

Whining, destruction, and anxiety kick in the moment I walk out.

My dog won’t listen or stay focused.

They’re easily distracted and ignore commands when it matters most.

I’m worried about my dog’s aggression or fear.

Growling, snapping, or shutdowns are happening. I don’t know how to fix it.
Success Stories

How Our Training Works In Real Life

Our structured, positive reinforcement approach doesn’t just instruct dogs. It builds lasting bonds and behavior changes. Read real stories from pet owners like you.

  • Finding the Right Dog Without the Guesswork

    Neil was looking for a rare, highly trained Belgian Malinois and found not just the right dog, but a trusted companion that quickly became part of his everyday life.

    “I was looking for a dog like Charlie, and that’s not something that’s easy to find. Dogs like this don’t come around that often. Absolute Canine handled so much of the process that it made everything incredibly easy for me.”

    Neil Osnato
    Client

  • Building Trust, Structure, and Control for a Powerful Protective Dog

    As Ayden matured into his naturally protective Boerboel temperament, his family sought expert training to ensure he remained a safe, respectful, and well-controlled member of their household.

    “If you are looking for basic obedience, advanced training, or protection training, I truly cannot say enough good things about Sean. I would recommend him without hesitation.”

    Jen Poleman
    Client

  • A Trusted Training Partner for Both Dogs

    Edward’s family first came to Absolute Canine to ensure their dog received professional training, then returned years later with full confidence when it was time to add a second dog to the family.

    “It’s a very professionally run dog training school, but beyond that, you can genuinely tell they love dogs. Every time we dropped ours off, the dogs were excited to see them, and that says a lot.”

    Edward Zwilling
    Client

  • From Reactive Rescue Dog to a Calm Everyday Companion

    Ellen came to Absolute Canine struggling with a reactive rescue dog she could not confidently manage and gained a calm, responsive companion she now takes everywhere.

    “I originally came in because I needed help with a reactive dog, but I got so much more than that. They completely changed the relationship I have with my dog, and honestly, I have never had a relationship this good with a dog before.”

    Ellen Leber
    Client
Our Training Process

From First Meeting to Happy Results

See how we guide you and your dog through a proven, supportive process using empathy, science-based training, and heartfelt owner education

  • Evaluation

    The first meeting with you and your dog: Assessment of behavior, interaction, suitability for needs.

  • Plan

    Preparation of an individual training plan based on assessment, owner's goals, and dog's character.

  • Training

    Implementation of the plan through positive reinforcement methods, markers, a balanced approach, and emotional comfort.

  • Owner Transfer

    The trainer adapts the skills so that the owner can easily and effectively continue training at home.

  • Follow‑ups

    Regular feedback, support sessions, Day School, online groups, or privileged services after completing the program.

Ready to Begin Your Dog’s Training Journey?

Get a free evaluation and custom plan trusted, positive-led training approach.
Trusted Dog Trainers
Testimonials

See Why Dog Owners Trust Us

Every transformation we achieve starts with trust. Here’s what dog owners share about their experience with Absolute Canine.
“We knew we wanted a well-trained dog, and Absolute Canine made that possible. They were clear, professional, and incredibly effective throughout the process.”
Edward Z.
Client
Edward Zwilling
Client
Melissa Shubert
Client
“From the moment I met them, I felt comfortable moving forward. They were open, honest, and gave me the confidence I needed to proceed.”
Neil O.
Client
Our awards

Awards That Reflect Our Commitment

Proof of our dedication, skill, and passion for canine training.
  • Trusted for Over 25+ years
    Rated 5.0

    Regular Award

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  • Trusted for Over 25+ years
    Rated 5.0

    Not as super as previous award Award

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  • Trusted for Over 25+ years
    Rated 5.0

    Super Award 1

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Trusted for Over 25+ years
Rated 5.0

Ready to Begin Your Dog’s Training Journey?

Get a free evaluation and custom plan trusted, positive-led training approach.
Trusted Dog Trainers
Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Book: Key Questions Answered

We know choosing the right training program is a big decision. Here are answers to the questions we hear most often from dog owners.

Have a different question?

If you don’t find the answers you’re looking for here, contact us.

5.0
from 200+ reviews

  • What happens in the free evaluation?

    We meet your dog, discuss goals/challenges, assess fit, and recommend the right program with clear next steps and timeline.

  • What training approach do you use?

    Balanced, humane, operant-based training with a clear marker system—rewarding what we want and fairly interrupting what we don’t.

  • Do you use tools like prong or e-collars?

    Only when appropriate for the dog and goals, and always with owner consent and coaching. Tools are introduced thoughtfully and phased as skills grow.

  • Do you work with reactivity or aggression?

    Yes—case by case. We start with safety and management, set realistic milestones, and progress as your dog is ready.

  • Will my dog forget me during a board & train?

    No. Your bond isn’t replaced. We include owner transfer sessions and a maintenance plan so behaviors stick at home.

  • What skills do you teach?

    Engagement, heel/loose-leash, sit/down/stay, place, recall, calm greetings, and household manners; advanced tracks add off-leash reliability.

  • How do you choose between private lessons, day school, and board & train?

    After the evaluation we match your goals, schedule, and your dog’s temperament to the program that delivers reliable results fastest.

  • When can we start training (puppies/adults)?

    Puppies can begin foundations as soon as they’re home and cleared by your vet; adult dogs can start anytime after evaluation.

  • What’s included after training?

    Owner transfer coaching, a written maintenance plan, and access to follow-up support or refreshers as needed.

  • How is pricing handled?

    We share pricing after the evaluation along with a tailored plan—no surprise add-ons. We’ll outline deposits, schedule, and next steps in writing.