Happy Tails Dog Training Academy
Affordable Dog Training in Wilmington, Delaware
Training is one of the most valuable ways to support your dog’s long-term happiness, confidence, and success. Whether you recently adopted a dog, welcomed a new puppy, or want to strengthen your bond with your canine companion, positive training can help create clearer communication, reduce frustration, and build trust between you and your dog.
Humane Animal Partners’ Happy Tails Dog Training Academy offers in-person dog training classes in Wilmington, Delaware for pet parents who want to learn alongside their pups in a supportive small-group setting. Led by HAP’s certified dog trainer, Ben Touchton, KPA-CTP, this six-week program focuses on basic obedience, using positive reinforcement and clicker training methods designed to help dogs and their people grow together.
Throughout the course, you and your dog will work on foundational training skills that encourage calm, confident behavior in everyday situations. From basic manners to positive responses around new people, places, and distractions, Happy Tails Dog Training Academy is designed to give Delaware dog owners the tools they need to continue training successfully at home.
Cost
Happy Tails Training Academy tuition is $550 for 6-weeks. A third of the total cost ($184) is due at the time of enrollment to secure your spot.
Schedule
Our next training class begins on Saturday, June 6 from 12pm-1pm at HAP Wilmington | 701 A Street, Wilmington, DE 19801. Pre-enrollment is required to attend.
Requirements
• Dogs must be at least 6 months old.
• Dogs must have active Rabies, Bordetella, and distemper vaccinations.
• Dogs must pass an initial assessment to ensure they are fit for small-group learning.
Enrollment
If interested in enrolling in the next Happy Tails Dog Training Academy class, please complete this dog assessment questionnaire.
Looking for support for a HAP Alum? Before enrolling, contact Ben Touchton directly for support: btouchton@hapde.org .
Additional questions may be directed to: dogtraining@hapde.org.
Meet the Trainer: Ben Touchton, KPA-CTP
Ben began his career in animal welfare in 2013, quickly developing a strong commitment to supporting dogs in need, particularly those with more complex behavioral concerns. Over the years, he has worked with a wide range of dogs, helping them make meaningful behavioral progress and improving their quality of life while in the shelter environment.
In 2016, Ben expanded his expertise through collaboration with professionals from the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Behavior Program, where he further developed his knowledge of canine behavior and training techniques. He has since applied these skills to support dogs with a variety of challenges, including leash manners, generalized anxiety, and select cases involving aggression. In addition, Ben has worked closely with adopters, providing guidance and support to help newly adopted dogs successfully transition into their homes. Through this work, Ben has helped prevent numerous dogs from being returned to the shelter due to behavioral challenges!
In early 2019, he enrolled in the Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Professional program and graduated with distinction in August of that year, earning his certification. In the years that followed, Ben continued supporting adopters while also expanding his work to include owned dogs. Now, he mentors fellow shelter staff in the use of positive reinforcement training, helping guide at least one colleague to successfully complete the same certification program!
