Updated Dog Training

at The William P. Rayner Training Center

Discover the William P. Rayner Training Center at ARF, where our mission is to empower dogs and foster enduring connections with their owners, built on cooperation, understanding, and trust. At ARF, we exclusively employ positive reinforcement training techniques, grounded in the science of animal learning. This approach is not only highly effective in shaping desired behaviors but also cultivates a strong, enduring bond between dogs and their human companions.

With a commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare, ARF stands as a beacon of excellence in care and safety. As part of this dedication, we advocate for positive training methods and tools, such as the use of body harnesses over traditional collars, and ARF has implemented using body harnesses for the majority of dogs and puppies in our care. By prioritizing the well-being and comfort of our furry friends, we ensure that training experiences are not only effective but also safe and stress-free.

At ARF, our comprehensive training programs cater to dogs of all ages and skill levels. From playful puppy kindergarten to foundational obedience and advanced training, our classes are thoughtfully crafted to facilitate seamless progression in our cutting-edge indoor facility. Additionally, we offer specialized sessions including recreational agility, tailored workshops, and socialization classes, all thoughtfully curated to suit the age and size of each participant.

Join us at ARF, where every interaction between dogs and people is infused with positivity, encouragement, and the promise of lasting companionship.

ARF adopters receive 20% off obedience classes. Click here for the discount code.

New class sessions start each month.

Exclusive Treat Sponsor for ARF’s Dog Training Program

Meet the Trainers

ARF Hamptons trainers and staff firmly support the power of positive reinforcement to foster positive behavior in both pets and people. Positive reinforcement should be the first line of teaching, training, and behavior change program considered, and should be applied consistently. Positive reinforcement is associated with the lowest incidence of aggression, attention seeking, avoidance, and fear in learners.

Trainers working at ARF Hamptons are credentialed as CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed) or working toward that degree. They are also LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) compliant.

Amy Kurtz, CPDT-KA

Amy found her passion working with dogs after careers in publishing, law, and social services. She studied at the FetchFind Academy in Chicago and volunteered with the Safe Humane Program at Chicago Animal Care and Control. In her classes, Amy encourages a cooperative relationship between dog and dog guardian, one that is built upon mutual respect and regard. A lifelong learner, Amy participates in regular in-person and online seminars with leaders in the positive reinforcement field including Ian Dunbar, Suzanne Clothier, Kathy Sdao and Debbie Jacobs. Based in North Sea, Amy lives with her 11-year-old springer spaniel, Dash. Yes, Dash is the dog who turned her into a dog trainer. (Photo by Kristin L. Gray)

Tim Almeida CPDT-KA, L-FDM

Tim Almeida is a Nationally Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Licensed Family Dog Mediator. He began his career working in animal shelters, eventually opening his own business. He continues to service shelter and rescue dogs on the East End of Long Island while also working alongside his partner, Lily, as co-founders of Tim and Lily Canine Services. Tim is an award-winning documentary film maker for his feature series, “Dog Spelled Backwards.” He is also a published author, musician, martial artist and surfer. When he is not helping others with their dogs he can be found alongside his own rescue pup, Dougie, getting dirty in the woods or chasing birds on the beach.

Veronica Grzybowska, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA

With over ten years of experience, Veronica’s journey in dog training has been enriched by her life in Seoul, Shanghai and Poland. Her approach is rigorously driven by respect and understanding for each dog, focusing not just on commands, but on guiding owners towards a fulfilling life with their companions. She specializes in a range of training areas, from mantrailing to addressing complex behaviors in shelter dogs. Veronica’s two master’s degrees have equipped her with analytical tools that allow her to approach each case with a depth of understanding and precision. As a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, she is currently the Director and Head Trainer at SouthamptonDog.com and serves as a consultant in local shelters. Veronica lives in Southampton, NY. (Photo by Kristin L. Gray)

The William P. Rayner Training Center

The William P. Rayner Training Center is ARF’s new 8,400 square foot training center built on site to accommodate year-round training, socialization, and enrichment in any weather, any time of year. This spacious facility includes a viewing area, outdoor play yard, and an environmentally conscious waste system. (Photo by Mark Kopko Photography.)