Instructor Robin Visniski and dog Nemesis demonstrate the race to the toy game during the Fun & Games class at Lucky Dog Training Center, 15545 County Road 1134 in Tyler on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. The once a week class focuses on training fun tricks and useful behaviors to develop a strong dog and handler bond. Dogs in this class have had basic obedience training, and many participate in agility training and competitions.

Through the use of toys, treats and games, canine students learn how to behave in public and bond with their owners at the Lucky Dog Training Center in Tyler.

“We walk, exercise, play and train all at the same time,” David Visniski, co-owner of the training center, said.

He and his wife, Robin, have owned the building for several years. They are also former owners of the Petland in Tyler, where they managed operations until 2013.

The center hosts trainings a few nights a week as well as events, including agility competitions and trainings, he said.

David Visniski said 95% of their clients come for beginner level training. Right now, the Visniskis are providing basic manner and obedience classes for four weeks on Mondays.

On Tuesday night, the Visniskis hosted a more advanced course to teach the dogs how to behave using toys and treats for positive reinforcement.

Cheryl Etheridge, of Lindale, brought her dog, Rocky, a 2-year-old Vizsla, to the training session to improve his socialization.

“I like the problem-solving group environment,” she said. “It (training) makes it easier to live with your dog. A well-trained dog is much easier to take care of.”

Etheridge, who teaches agility and obedience with Tyler Obedience Training Club, said training sessions at Lucky Dog improve Rocky’s interactions with other dogs like when they attend breed shows.

“Other dogs don’t bother him,” Etheridge said. “He just walks with me.”

David Visniski said having a large building allows them to continue training sessions while social distancing. The classes are also limited to eight people each, and the events are currently booked a month ahead of time.

He said their training methods help the dog build a stronger relationship with their owner and teaches them to behave better in public.

Giving the dogs something fun to do gives them motivation.

“Dogs can’t multitask,” he said. “If you don’t give them a job, they’ll find their own.”

The most common things people want training are the dog jumping on people, potty training and chewing up stuff, he said.

While there are several online resources for dog training, he said the biggest reason people come to Lucky Dog is speak to someone face to face.

For details on upcoming events, visit the center’s Facebook page at Lucky Dog Training Center, 15545 County Road 1134, Tyler, Tx 75709.