About the Classes

All classes meet one hour per week for 6 weeks. Each class includes demonstrations, training exercises with your dog, behavior discussions and weekly activities for you and your family to practice at home. Class sizes are kept small and helpers are always available in the larger classes. The teacher to dog ratio is usually no more than 1:4. Class times and locations are given on the Schedule page. "Special Needs" dogs (deaf, blind, canine amputee) are welcome in all classes!

Puppy Class

Puppies must have proof of at least two sets of puppy vaccinations.

Start off in the right direction by taking advantage of your puppy's most formative period of development. Classes include lessons in basic puppy obedience, puppy development, confidence building, self-control, and problem prevention.

Beginner Class

Dogs must be 18 weeks or older, and proof of current vaccinations is required. NO DOGS the first night of class.

Dogs of any age will benefit from this class. Whether your dog is new to your family or has lived with you for a while, you will learn how to teach proper manners and solve any existing problems. Classes include lessons in basic obedience, common behavior problems, attention/focus, and building a bond with your dog.

Canine Good Citizen Class

Dogs must have proof of current vaccinations.

Dogs who have graduated from our beginner class (and other dogs who have been pre-approved) are welcome to participate in our CGC class. The lessons will prepare you for the 10 part AKC Canine Good Citizen test, which is conducted in week 6. This is an evaluation of your dog's manners and training, it is not a competition. Both purebreds and Mixes are eligible for this certification. An AKC Canine Good Citizen certificate will be awarded to the owners and dog, who successfully complete the program.

Rally

Dogs must have proof of current vaccinations. Graduation from a class such as our basic obedience class is recommended.

Rally obedience emphasizes fun and excitement for the dog/handler team while providing an interactive approach to obedience. The focus is on teamwork, communication, and fun rather than precision. Whether you are interested in competing, or just want to try something new with your dog, this is the sport for you. Currently, the AKC is sponsoring trials for purebred dogs, and APDT has RallyO trials for both Mixes and purebreds. Dogs should already have a reliable sit, down, stay and left side walking. Dogs must be able to safely work around other people and dogs on leash.

Clicker Class

Dogs must be 10 weeks or older, and proof of appropriate vaccinations is required.

Clicker training is a proven way to teach and communicate, which is fun for dogs and people of all ages and abilities. Together, you and your dog will be learning a new way of interacting, resulting in a dog who is attentive and eager to please. Clicker training is available for the puppy, beginner, or advanced levels.

Private Lessons

Private lessons are required for dogs with aggression issues before enrolling in our public classes. This insures the safety of you, your dog and other teams in the public classes.

Private lessons are always available to anyone at a mutually agreeable time.

To reserve your class space, or if you have a question about a class that you are enrolled in, contact Shirley by email or call (248) 393-0699.