Most people think that dog training is a matter of teaching the dog to sit, to stay, or to walk with a leash. In some cases, maybe that training helps with behavioral issues or learning to shake or roll over. But those descriptions do a poor job of detailing the deeper, more significant impact that training can have on a pet.
At its best, training builds communication, trust, and confidence. It opens the door to a richer life between dog and dog-owner. Whether that means a peaceful walk through the neighborhood or a high-energy performance in front of a packed baseball stadium, both you and your dog will find greater joy if a bit of training has been introduced to your furry family member. At Greenleaf Pet Resort, we’ve spent years helping dogs reach their potential, from everyday obedience to specialized roles that delight and inspire.
Our training philosophy is grounded in respect for each dog’s personality. We focus on positive reinforcement, consistency, and gradual exposure to new environments. Whether your goal is a well-mannered companion or a working dog with a specific job, we shape training around your pet’s unique drive, temperament, and learning style.
Some of our most exciting work has been with the “bat dogs” of minor league baseball, those crowd-pleasing pups who retrieve bats after a player runs to base. These dogs aren’t just cute. They’re athletes in their own right. Their performances are the result of months of professional training, teamwork, and trust.
Here are just two of their stories.
The Trenton Thunder Bat Dogs: A Home Run Partnership
Our journey with the Trenton Thunder began in 2008, when the team was searching for a training partner to help raise their first bat dog, Derby. After reviewing trainers across the country, they chose Greenleaf. We’ve been their trusted training facility ever since. Today, we’re proud to have trained all three of their famous bat dogs: Derby, Rookie, and Dash.
Each of these dogs began training at just three to four months old. Over the course of four to five months, we introduced them to various stadium environments, crowd noise, and the unique task of retrieving a bat. We built their drive from the ground up. We started with toys like tennis balls then gradually introducing smaller bats before eventually working with the real thing.
The results speak for themselves. These dogs have become icons in the Trenton area, adored by fans for their playful energy and charm. Their presence adds a layer of joy to the game, turning every bat retrieval into a moment of cheer. It’s more than entertainment. It’s a tradition built on skill, patience, and a deep understanding of canine behavior.
Casey the Bat Dog: A Star in New Hampshire
In 2022, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats turned to Greenleaf after seeing the Thunder’s success. They were looking for a dog that could handle the pressure of live games, complete with fireworks, loud music, and excited fans. That dog was Casey, selected for her incredible temperament and demeanor.
Casey came to us at about ten months old,. We immediately saw her potential. Like our other bat dogs, her training was rooted in exposure, repetition, and fun. We slowly introduced her to distractions and high-energy environments, always rewarding her curiosity and calm demeanor. Bit by bit, she grew more confident and began to love her job.
Within five months, Casey was ready for the spotlight. Now, she retrieves bats for the Fisher Cats with enthusiasm and focus, unfazed by the roar of the crowd. Her performances have quickly become a fan favorite…and another shining example of what a thoughtfully trained dog can accomplish.
More Than Entertainment: Real-World Applications of Training
While the bat dogs may grab headlines, they’re only one part of our training portfolio. At Greenleaf, we work with dogs that serve in law enforcement, therapy programs, and personal support roles. Our clients include police departments across New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the Port Authority, and schools and medical offices in need of therapy dogs.
Each of these roles requires a different skill set, but they all share a foundation in trust, consistency, and customized training. Whether it’s a dog that needs to stay calm in high-stress environments or one that provides daily comfort to a child with anxiety, we train with both purpose and compassion.
Our team knows how to bring out the best in every dog. No matter the goal, we create a clear path forward that’s grounded in experience and tailored to your dog’s needs. The same care that goes into preparing a dog for a stadium crowd goes into helping your dog become a better companion at home.
What to Expect from Training at Greenleaf
Training with us begins with a conversation. We learn about your dog’s behavior, personality, and the goals you have in mind. From there, we design a personalized plan that may include one-on-one sessions, immersion programs, or specialty training for tasks like therapy work or public access behavior.
We work with dogs of all ages and breeds, and we welcome challenges. Whether your dog is a playful puppy or a stubborn adolescent, we’re here to build a foundation that lasts. Every session focuses on building confidence and clarity, so your dog understands what’s expected and learns to respond with enthusiasm.
And while we take training seriously, we never forget that it should be enjoyable. A well-trained dog is a happy dog. And a happy dog makes for a joyful home. From the first command to advanced performance skills, we celebrate every step of the journey together.
Training with Purpose—and Joy
These stories aren’t just about entertainment. They’re about the power of patience, the impact of positive reinforcement, and the joy of seeing a dog do something they love. Whether your dream is a well-mannered family companion or something more specialized, we’re here to help you make it happen.
If you’re ready to start your training journey, we’d love to meet you and your pup. At Greenleaf Pet Resort, we don’t just teach commands. We build relationships. And sometimes, those relationships lead all the way to the pitcher’s mound. Contact us here to get your dog started on an incredible training journey.