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Why Shorter Training Sessions Are (Often) Better?

by Jessica | Jun 30, 2025 | Dog Training, Training Theory

When it comes to training your canine companion, you don’t need to extend the number of hours because there is no guarantee for better results. You will be surprised that many successful training results happen in just a few minutes! According to the School of...

Dominance Theory Is Dead: Why Experts Recommend Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

by Jessica | Mar 14, 2025 | Training Theory

Dog parents all want a happy, well-behaved, and confident companion. How we achieve this, however, matters greatly. For decades, “dominance theory” shaped how people interacted with and trained their dogs. Modern research has shown that these outdated...

How to Choose an Ethical Dog Breeder

by Jessica | Sep 17, 2025

Puppy Pre-K

New puppy? Congratulations! Puppies' brains are extremely malleable and benefit greatly from exploring the world around them in safe, positive ways. Our Puppy Pre-K classes allow them to do just that.

Our puppy classes each focus on a behavior, exposure to body handling, positive exposure to new things and puppy playtime! Successfully completing 6 classes qualifies your new addition for AKC Star Puppy status!

Prerequisite

There is no prerequisite class. Puppies must have received at least two DHPP vaccines and be under 6 months of age.

START PUPPY RIGHT

Basic Manners Classes (Levels 1-5)

All dogs begin in Level 1 and can continue through Level 5 as they meet the appropriate benchmarks. Topics and behaviors include:

Developing Handler Focus
Sit
Down
Stay and Recall (Come When Called)
Stationing/Settling on a Mat
Targeting
Confidence Building
Sitting Politely for a Stranger
Adding distractions, distance and duration to all of the above

Starting at Level 4, dog and handler teams will begin learning Canine Good Citizen skills, qualifying them to test for their CGC, Community CGC, Urban CGC titles and more!

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs at all levels. No prerequisite is required. With regular attendance in class and practice at home, most dogs can reach Level 2 within 1 month, Level 3 within 2-3 months and Level 4 within 6 months.

START TODAY

Loose Leash and Recall

One of the most common calls we get is for help with loose leash walking and recall and it makes sense! When asking for our dog's engagement, we are competing with everything in the environment. Other dogs, people, smells, sounds.. you name it! This class is dedicated to helping you and your dog develop the skills to build a solid recall and maintain a loose leash in all sorts of situations. While our Levels courses do touch upon these topics, this supplemental class will take it to the next level.

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs at all levels. No prerequisite is required.

ENJOY YOUR WALKS

Dog Walking Club

Ready to take your leash skills out into the real world? Dog Walking Club is the next level after Loose Leash Walking, designed to help you and your dog practice polite walking around distractions like other dogs, people, and everyday life outside the classroom. Each week, we’ll head out together to work on leash manners, focus, and calm behavior in real environments. You’ll build the skills and confidence to enjoy stress-free strolls, even when the world around you is exciting or unpredictable. Dog Walking Club is perfect for teams who have the basics down and are ready to turn good walking habits into a reliable part of everyday life.

Prerequisite

This class requires pre-approval. We recommend taking Levels and our Loose Leash/Recall class to learn the skills needed!

Let's Walk!

Impulse Control

Does your dog seem to lack self-control? Are you struggling with him/her becoming over-excited in response to seemingly everything? You're not alone... and you're in the right place!

Welcome to Impulse Control! In this drop-in class, we focus on addressing the following behaviors:

- Jumping up in excitement
- Politely greeting others (humans and dogs alike!)
- Relinquishing a toy on cue (“Drop It”)
- Remaining calm around distractions
- ...and more!

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs at all levels. No prerequisite is required.

Enroll Now

Impulse Control: Predatory Instincts

Does your dog go ballistic whenever he/she sees a squirrel or rabbit? Do you dread encountering wild animals for this reason when on your walks? If so, this is the class for you! This class focuses on controlling your dog’s prey drive and teaching you how to harness it in order to reward desirable behaviors instead. This class includes topics such as why our dogs might struggle with their predatory control and teaching them how they can rehearse parts of the predatory sequence appropriately.

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs at all levels. No prerequisite is required.

Enroll Now

Tricks and Agility

Trick training offers so many benefits to both the dog and human side of training. Agility is a wonderful way to challenge your dog's brain and get them moving in a fun way! Trick training and agility can help:

- Increase mental stimulation
- Increase bonding and relationship building
- Provide physical exercise
- Improves focus and attention
- Increases confidence, problem-solving and communication skills
- Provide socialization
- Increase happy and cooperative learning

Even if "obedience" is your goal, trick and agility training can be an incredible way to have fun together and continue generalizing and practicing your dog's new skills! ...plus you can earn yourself a fancy new AKC title with our evaluators!

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs at all levels. No prerequisite is required.

SEE THE SCHEDULE

Training Games

If you're looking to shake up your training routine and help your dog be as confident as possible, our Training Games class is for you! Prepare to laugh as you play fun "games" to develop your skills, increase your bond, expand their socialization help your dog keep your dog mentally stimulated and feeling more confident than ever in our crazy, human world. Just some of the fun to be had in this class includes: -Tic Tac Toe - Jenga - Loose Leash Walking Games - "Bowling" - Jeopardy - and more!

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs working well at Level 3 and above. Certain dogs may be pre-approved during Level 2.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

Scent Work Games

Nosework is a tremendous tool for so many things - search and rescue, drug detection, airport security... Did you know it's also an excellent mental workout using a behavior your dog already displays naturally? The enrichment class your dog has always dreamed of! Ranging from ball pits and puzzles to learning how to distinguish scents, participate in different games, lessons and enrichment opportunities to get your dog using that sniffer in this fun class!

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs at all levels. No prerequisite is required.

GET SNIFFIN'

Applied Scent Games

Ready to take your dog’s sniffing superpowers to the next level? In this class, teams build on the fun of Scent Work Games by working with target odors (like birch, anise, and clove). You and your dog will learn how to search for and indicate scents in a variety of playful, real-world inspired challenges. This class keeps things lighthearted while helping your dog sharpen their focus, boost confidence, and burn mental energy through scent-based problem solving. Whether your pup is a natural sniffer or just loves a new game, Applied Scent Games is a fantastic way to grow your partnership and have a blast together.

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs working well at Levels 2 and up.

GET NOSEY

Shaping Games

Shaping is all about teamwork, communication, and creativity. In this class, we turn it into a game! Using positive reinforcement, you’ll guide your dog to experiment, problem-solve, and offer new behaviors without being lured or prompted every step of the way. Through fun challenges and step-by-step exercises, dogs learn how to think independently while staying engaged with their handler. You’ll discover how to break skills down into achievable pieces, celebrate progress, and build stronger communication with your pup. Shaping Games is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to sharpen their training skills, boost their dog’s confidence, and unlock their inner “canine genius.”

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs working well at Levels 3 and up.

SHAPE UP

Rally Obedience

Rally Obedience, often referred to as "Rally-O," is a dog sport based on obedience. Think an obstacle course but the "obstacles" are instructions you and your dog must perform together as a team. Currently offered monthly, Rally-O is a fun class to build your bond wit your dog and practice your skills in a brand new way!

Tasks you may find during Rally-O include different levels of:

- Heel
- Sit
- Stay
- Recall
-Down

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs working well at Level 2 and above.

LET'S RALLY

Confident Canines

Confidence isn’t just for the “shy dogs" - it’s a skill every pup can benefit from throughout their life. In this class, we focus on building resilience and self-assurance through fun, positive experiences that encourage your dog to try new things at their own pace. Using games, obstacles, and enrichment activities, dogs learn that new situations don’t have to be scary and that they can tackle challenges with enthusiasm. Handlers will also gain practical strategies to support their dogs in the real world, from everyday encounters to unexpected surprises. By practicing confidence-building now, you’re not only helping your dog feel more secure today, but also working to prevent future fears and reactivity down the road. Confident Canines is perfect for any dog who could use a boost — whether they’re a cautious pup, a teenager testing boundaries, or an adult brushing up on life skills.

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs at all levels. No prerequisite is required.

BUILD CONFIDENCE

Cooperative Care

There are times we need our dogs to do things they find less than pleasant. That's just part of life but our dogs don't quite understand WHY it needs to be done. Fortunately, you can make vet visits, home care and grooming less stressful for your pet and easier for you with practice. We call this "cooperative care." Each class will focus on a different type of cooperative care such as nail trims, getting on a scale-like surface, ear drops, restraint, etc. Join the fun for all of them or pick and choose the classes you'd like to focus on.

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs at all levels. No prerequisite is required.

REDUCE STRESS

Movement Puzzles

Looking for a new way to challenge your dog’s body and brain? Movement Puzzles combine problem-solving with physical activity to keep your pup engaged, thinking, and moving. In this class, dogs will learn to navigate creative setups while building coordination, focus, and confidence along the way. Not only is this class a great outlet for energy, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your dog as you tackle puzzles together. Plus, it’s fantastic for dogs of all ages — from energetic youngsters who need a job to older pups who benefit from low-impact enrichment. Movement Puzzles are as fun to watch as they are to play, and they’ll leave your dog happily tired in both mind and body.

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs working well at Level 2 and up.

GET MOVING

Barkour

Think parkour… but for dogs! Barkour is all about channeling your pup’s energy and curiosity into safe, structured fun. In this class, dogs will learn to climb, jump, balance, and weave through creative obstacle setups that build body awareness, confidence, and focus. More than just a workout, Barkour strengthens the bond between you and your dog as you tackle challenges together. Each activity is designed to be accessible and adjustable, making it great for dogs of all sizes, ages, and skill levels. Barkour is the perfect outlet for energetic pups who need a job, cautious dogs who could use a confidence boost, or anyone who just wants to try something new and exciting with their canine teammate.

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs working well at Level 2 and up.

GET MOVING

Fit Dog

A healthy body makes for a happy pup! Fit Dog is a fitness and conditioning class designed to improve your dog’s strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance through fun, positive exercises. From balance equipment to core-strengthening moves, your dog will learn how to use their body more effectively while staying safe. This class is perfect for energetic dogs who need a job, canine athletes looking to cross-train, or older pups who could benefit from low-impact conditioning. You’ll also learn how to safely continue exercises at home. Fit Dog helps prevent injuries, builds confidence, and provides an engaging way to keep your pup in tip-top shape... no gym membership required!

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs working well at Level 2 and up.

BUILD THOSE MUSCLES

Therapy Dog Prep

If you're interested in therapy work with your dog, this is the class for you! Learn about the certification process, evaluate your pup's therapy potential, expose your dog to new people, medical equipment, practice on field trips and more.

We help our dog and handler teams prepare for testing and certification through Pet Partners. While dogs may begin taking this class at any age, they must be at least a year old for certification.

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate dogs who love human attention and are working at levels 3 and above. Reactive dogs are not appropriate for therapy work.

START THE JOURNEY

Social Studies

Social Studies is a class focused on all thing dog-to-dog interaction. This class is a safe way to assess your dog's eagerness to socialize with other pups, work toward improving your dog's sociability, evaluating canine body language and evaluating dogs for Day School and Play Groups. If you are wondering if this class might benefit you and your dog, shoot us a message or ask your trainer at your next class!

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for dogs at all levels. No prerequisite is required.

GET SOCIAL

Field Trips

Field trips allow us to take our dogs into the "real world" to practice their skills in different environments with all kinds of different distractions! Our field trips change each trip for a new experience. We may visit a store, an outdoor restaurant, parks, trails, and more! Field trips are currently held as a part of our "Thank Dog It's Friday!" series on Friday evenings once a month.

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for most dogs working well in Level 3 and above. Pre-approval is required.

Relaxation Station

Every dog needs an “off switch” and every owner needs a little peace of mind. Relaxation Station is designed to teach dogs how to settle calmly, even when life around them is busy or exciting. Through guided exercises, mat work, and calming games, your pup will learn to relax on cue, focus their energy, and feel comfortable in a variety of environments. Handlers will also pick up practical techniques to bring this calm behavior home, to the vet’s office, or anywhere else your dog needs it most. Relaxation Station is perfect for excitable dogs who struggle to settle, pups who need better self-control, or any team that wants to build a reliable “chill button” for everyday life.

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for most dogs working well in Level 2 and above.

SIT, STAY, NAP

Patio Manners

Breweries and outdoor patios are super popular - especially in nice weather! This drop-in class focuses on teching your dog how to settle amid distractions such as other dogs, people, food, sounds and smells. This is one of our most popular topics! This class may include field trips!

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for most dogs working well in Level 2 and above.

Reactive Relief

Does your dog bark and lunge at other dogs? You're not alone. Reactivity can feel stressful, scary and embrassing. Your dog isn't acting this way to scare and embarass you, though - he is overwhelmed and needs a hand learning a better way to process the situation. That's where our reactivity relief class comes in! Reactive Relief is meant to be taken as a series. Each class will build on what was taught the week prior.

CURRENTLY BEING REVAMPED!

Prerequisite

If you feel your dog would benefit from reactivity class, please contact us and we'll get you going in the right direction!

NEXT SESSION COMING SOON

Rocket Recall

A solid recall can save your dog's life but boy, it's asking a lot from them to stop sniffing that exciting smell or chasing that squirrel! By methodically teaching our dogs to check in with us, respond to their names and very clear cues, we can build a solid foudation for their recall. While our Levels courses do touch upon recall, this class will take it to the next level. Rocket Recall is meant to be taken as a series. Each class will build on what was taught the week prior.

4 Week Linear Course

Prerequisite

This class is appropriate for most dogs working well in Level 2 and above.

SEE THE SCHEDULE

Why Shorter Training Sessions Are (Often) Better?

Dominance Theory Is Dead: Why Experts Recommend Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

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How to Choose an Ethical Dog Breeder