Training Services

Dog sports coaching for every level — from curious beginners to competitive athletes — on the Blue Hill Peninsula of Maine.

I offer hands-on coaching in four disciplines, tailored to you and your dog's goals. Whether you're just getting started or chasing a podium finish, there's a place for you here. In-person sessions are available on the Blue Hill Peninsula, and virtual lessons are available for those outside the area.

Agility

Speed, precision, and teamwork on course.

Agility

Agility is one of the most dynamic dog sports around — a timed obstacle course that tests your dog's speed and your handling skills. We work on foundation skills, obstacle performance, and course strategy, building a confident, drivey dog who loves to run.

  • Foundation skills for new dogs and handlers
  • Obstacle training: jumps, tunnels, weave poles, contacts
  • Handling systems and course strategy
  • Ring readiness and mental management for dogs and handlers
  • Virtual lessons available
Book Agility
Disc Dog

Freestyle throws, big catches, and pure joy.

Disc Dog

Disc dog combines athleticism, creativity, and an incredible bond between dog and handler. From learning your first throw to choreographing a freestyle routine, I'll help you and your dog find your rhythm and build a game you both love.

  • Throw mechanics and disc selection
  • Drive and retrieve foundation
  • Toss & fetch distance work
  • Freestyle routine development
  • Virtual lessons available
Book Disc Dog
Flyball

Fast, loud, and team-driven relay racing.

Flyball

Flyball is a relay race where dogs sprint over hurdles, trigger a box to release a ball, and race back — as fast as possible. It's high-energy, highly social, and incredibly rewarding. I coach individual dogs and handlers looking to join or build a team.

  • Box turn mechanics and ball drive
  • Jump training and stride regulation
  • Start line and passing skills
  • Team racing and competition readiness
  • Virtual lessons available
Book Flyball
Canine Strength & Conditioning

Build a stronger, sounder, more resilient dog.

Canine Strength & Conditioning

As a Certified Canine Strength & Conditioning Coach, I design individualized fitness programs to improve your dog's strength, balance, flexibility, and body awareness. Whether your dog is a competitive athlete or a weekend warrior, conditioning keeps them performing their best and reduces injury risk.

  • Individualized fitness assessment
  • Core strength and balance work
  • Proprioception and body awareness exercises
  • Injury prevention and recovery support
  • Sport-specific conditioning for agility, disc, and flyball
  • Virtual lessons available
Book Conditioning

Not local? No problem.

Virtual lessons are available for all disciplines. Whether you're across the state or across the country, we can work together online to build skills, troubleshoot problems, and keep your training moving forward.

Pricing

Pricing varies by session type and length. Contact me for current rates and package options — I'm happy to put together something that works for your goals and schedule.

Get in Touch

Not sure where to start?

Send me a message and tell me about your dog. I'll help you figure out which discipline is the right fit.

Send a Message

What Clients Are Saying

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jane farley

July 14, 2026

We have a 15 month old Doberman puppy, both of his rear feet were rotated out. We contacted Donna and made an appointment for her to evaluate him. She had us move him and do different exercises so that she could evaluate him and come up with a plan. The plan was 4 exercises to strengthen the muscles and hopefully start to get his feet aligned. She was super patient with both River and Richard :) We were all amazed at how much progress he made. His back feet are noticeably straighter. I would highly recommend her — super happy with her approach and River's progress!

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Emi Goucher

June 5, 2026

I can't recommend Downeast Dog Sports enough!! Donna has a wealth of knowledge and is incredible at teaching. She's given me so much great advice for managing my wild child, and thanks to her we have been able to really start to enjoy the world of dog sports! Also, disc league is the highlight of our weeks — the community that surrounds Downeast Dog Sports is one of the warmest and most welcoming around.

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Elle Skene

March 30, 2026

Donna hosts amazing classes, clubs, and events! So great to have a way to connect with other dog people in our rural town!

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Kim Ford

March 30, 2026

Wonderful experience with my dog, Rio. We worked on improving weaves and it was exceptional! I learned much more about my dog's interpretation of my body movements and positions. It was so helpful and Rio responded well. I will be going back!

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Margaret Brooks

August 13, 2024

I have used a wide variety of services from Donna! With both of my dogs who are wildly different. Donna is extremely knowledgeable and always has a suggestion or idea for my problem behaviors. My favorite service she provides is the video review option — an online service that allows you to work independently. As a certified professional dog trainer myself I find this extremely useful. I cannot recommend it enough! The video review option for dog training is a HUGE game changer.

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Megan Kiessling

June 27, 2022

My dog Bailey used to HATE cats. Within one session, Donna not only identified the issue but she said it was salvageable and gave me the tools to improve the situation. Within a few months we had eliminated all the chasing. Now, two years later, we have inter species snuggling. She literally saved my family. Thank you so much Donna!!!

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Downeast Dog Sports

Dog sports training for every level — from first-time handlers to competitive athletes — on the Blue Hill Peninsula of Maine.

Get in Touch

Blue Hill Peninsula, Maine
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Blue Hill Peninsula, Maine