Advanced Dog Training – Custom Obedience Solutions for Challenging Goals

Three German Shepherds relaxing on a concrete patio. One wears a red harness; all pant with tongues out.

Elevate Your Dog’s Skills with Advanced Obedience Training

Advanced Training at Balance Dog Training San Diego is designed for owners who want to take their dog’s capabilities beyond the basics. Whether you need specialized behavior modification, high-level obedience, or preparation for therapy, competition, or off-leash reliability in dynamic settings, this program delivers personalized instruction and precise handling.


Each dog is different—and so are the goals of their owners. That’s why this program is tailored to meet your unique needs, whether that means refining obedience under distraction, correcting a specific behavior issue, or building advanced task execution.

Who This Program Is For

  • Dogs that have completed basic or intermediate obedience
  • Owners with specific goals, such as therapy dog preparation or advanced agility
  • Dogs with behavior issues like fear, overexcitement, or territorial reactivity
  • Handlers who want precise control and performance in challenging environments

If your dog is smart, capable, and ready for more structure—or if you’re dealing with persistent behavior issues that need strategic correction—this program is the right fit.



What Your Dog Will Learn

Each Advanced Training plan is created after a full in-home evaluation and discussion of your goals. Programs may include, but are not limited to:

  • Off-leash walking in high-distraction areas
  • Structured duration commands under stress or noise
  • Enhanced impulse control and “leave it” discipline
  • Distance-based commands (sit, down, recall at 30 feet or more)
  • Advanced focus drills and boundary discipline
  • Behavior modification for issues like anxiety, reactivity, or resource guarding
  • Scent training, task work, or trick performance based on request

We can also prepare dogs for specific public environments, travel routines, or work tasks if needed.

Owner Coaching That Matches the Complexity

Advanced training demands a deeper understanding from the owner, too. That’s why each session includes coaching and reinforcement techniques you can practice between lessons.

You’ll learn:

  • How to build your dog’s drive and attention
  • How to manage setbacks and behavioral challenges
  • When and how to introduce distractions safely
  • Consistent reinforcement that promotes long-term retention

These skills prepare you to lead your dog through more complex routines with confidence and control.

Training Format and Flexibility

While most programs run for five weeks, advanced training can be extended based on your dog’s pace and goals. Sessions take place in your home, at parks, or public locations where challenges are real and progress is measurable.

This flexibility allows Dave to work with dogs in exactly the environments they struggle or need to perform in—making training relevant, practical, and permanent.

A black dog laying on a red blanket with penguins on it

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I start with this program, or do I need to complete earlier levels?

    Most dogs need to complete basic on-leash obedience before beginning advanced training. However, if your dog already has prior training or certification, Dave will assess their readiness during the free evaluation.

  • What types of behavioral issues do you work with?

    This program can address leash reactivity, fear-based behavior, excessive barking, selective listening, boundary pushing, and more. For aggression cases, a customized plan may be developed after a behavioral assessment.

  • Do you offer task-based training?

    Yes. We can design routines for retrieving, alerting, or public etiquette for dogs intended for therapy, support, or lifestyle-specific tasks.

  • What tools are used in advanced sessions?

    Tools are introduced based on the dog’s needs and your comfort level. Dave uses a balanced approach and always discusses methods openly with the owner before implementation.

Ready for the Next Level? Let’s Talk

If your dog is ready for a new challenge—or if you need focused solutions for behavioral problems—this program will give you structure, control, and results.