A lake, a station and an airport nearby.
- County
- Suffolk County
- From Stony Brook
- 6 mi south
- Main roads
- Lakeland Avenue and the Long Island Expressway
- Where dogs walk
- Lake Ronkonkoma and Lakeland County Park
Ronkonkoma is a hamlet in the Town of Islip, and Lake Ronkonkoma is a kettle lake lying entirely within it. Its entry also lists Lakeland County Park and Connetquot River State Park Preserve, a railroad station and a nearby airport. Lakeland Avenue and the Long Island Expressway carry much of the traffic. Water, geese and food scraps are standard temptations.
Teach leave-it in three stages. First, ignore a treat in your closed hand. Next, ignore a treat on the floor. Finally, ignore real distractions such as a goose at a distance. Keep your dog on a leash around the lake, and use a long line for recall practice in open areas. Always read the signs at the park, since dog rules differ from place to place.
Noise from aircraft and trains can bother sensitive dogs. Play recorded sounds at a low volume while feeding treats, and raise the volume slowly over days. A recall lesson, with a general estimate of $75 to $150, is a good start for owners who plan regular trips to open spaces.
Treat every figure as a general estimate. Fees depend on the trainer, the dog and the market.
Recall Training$75 to $150 per lesson→Loose-Leash Walking$75 to $150 per lesson→Basic Obedience Package$500 to $1,200 per package→A simple plan, three parts.
- Pick one cue to build first, such as a sit before the door opens.
- Ask each trainer how they teach it, how many lessons it may take and whether they travel to Ronkonkoma.
- Rehearse the cue in easy spots first, then move toward Lake Ronkonkoma and Lakeland County Park.
Nearby communities. Also in this guide.
Local resources. Learn more about Ronkonkoma.
Our approach
Slow lessons. Honest numbers.
Run by K9PN, with details in the Disclaimer.
Good questions
Before you begin.
How can I stop my dog from eating things by the lake?
Teach leave-it and reward your dog for turning back to you. Keep the leash short while learning.
Is a long line safe?
It is a useful tool when handled carefully. Keep gloves on and avoid wrapping it around your hand.
How much is a recall lesson?
Most estimates fall between $75 and $150. The cost follows the number of lessons and the trainer.
Can a trainer meet me at a park?
Some do. Ask where lessons happen and what park rules apply.