Dog Behavior Consultant

Biography

Bob Minchella has been involved with dog obedience and competition for over 30 years, and a professional dog trainer since 1986. He has trained in the United States, Canada and Germany with world renowned trainers and behaviorists. He is the lead dog obedience instructor for all class levels at Lollypop Farm. In addition to participating in dog obedience competitions across the country, Bob has trained dogs to assist handicapped individuals, and conducted seminars all over the Northeast. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Bob worked at the Lamar Dixon Emergency Animal Shelter, which for six weeks was the largest animal shelter in the world. His expertise in dog behavior was recognized as his primary assignment was at the infamous Barn 5 where more than 200 pit bulls, many scared from fighting, were housed.

Bob dedicates his efforts towards solving problem behavior in dogs of all breeds and ages. He recognizes that each dog comes with its own temperament and personality―and so do the pet owners. Bob seeks the training regiment that will work for both, and so his classes reflect the individuality of the dog-owner teams enrolled. He works to develop respect and leadership, and uses positive reinforcement that results in successful obedience and joyful pet ownership.

Nationally-recognized by leading behaviorists and trainers across the country, Bob brings his high-caliber methods to the local Rochester area. Brian Kilcommons, co-author of eight books and consultant to Comcast Pets On Demand, says "Bob is one of the most talented dog trainers I have the pleasure of knowing. His caring, knowledge and expertise has benefited thousands of dogs and people on a daily basis. I have the utmost respect for his efforts, commitment and knowledge achieving a better understanding with people and their canine companions. Bob is the real deal."

Bob also received praise from internationally-acclaimed behaviorist Gary Wilkes, author of Behavior Sampler and founder of "Click and Treat^(R) Training", the popular clicker training phenomenon. Wilkes calls Bob a "true professional." Most recently, Bob's behavior instruction inspired nationally-sought-after leadership consultants Sherri McArdle and Jim Ramerman to develop the book, Why Dogs Wag Their Tails: Lessons Leaders Can Learn About Work, Joy, and Life. McArdle writes in the book, "[he] showed me how to become the leader Scout needed me to be."

Bob takes pride in working with people and their pets, solving behavior issues and preserving the bond between people and their pets.

Hear what clients have said about Bob Minchella:

What a wonderful experience we had at your puppy training class. It has been a real help in understanding our dog's behavior and knowing the right way to reinforce positive behaviors. It also helps teach our kids how to work with the dog to ensure we're all doing the right things.
- Celia and Gary Palmer

Bob's training methods are the most down-to-earth, sensible, and kindest that I've experienced. He teaches the usual commands, but more importantly, he has taught me how to understand my dogs' thoughts and needs and guide their good everyday manners.
- Jan Teitgen

My dog Lucy and I have attended Good Citizen, Basic and Advanced training classes with Bob. His training was thorough, based on true expertise in canine psychology and behavior, and allowed my dog and I to succeed at a level higher than I anticipated.
- Linda Marino

Bob helps us see the world from the dog's point of view. He can analyze a situation with uncanny speed. And he makes the classes fun.
- Carol Lawrence

Where you can find Bob Minchella:

(585) 223-1330 x353

(585) 325-3647

(585) 288-0780

August 17th Classes and Times

11:00am Advanced Obedience

Modeled after the AKC companion dog title. Prepares your dog for off leash obedience

12:10pm Puppy

A looser version of adult basic, with a greater emphasis on doggy and people socialization.

1:20pm Basic Obedience

Learn to teach your dog the basics sit, down, stay, come and heel.

2:30pm Advanced Obedience II

A potpourri of exercises from agility, companion dog title, utility dog title, and Rally O.