What We Offer

PROOF OF VACCINATIONS REQUIRED AT FIRST MEETING

Puppy Elementary (First class is orientation – humans only, no dogs)

This 90-minute class is targeted for dogs 4 months and older with little or no prior training. The class combines 3 phases of learning. The first is simple command learning — sit, stay, come, down, etc. Using games and clickers (optional),  this portion of class also includes focus and impulse control activities. The second phase involves advancing your dog’s socialization skills with dogs, strangers and new environments. The third phase incorporates discussion and solutions regarding universal puppy/dog behaviors such as nipping, jumping and barking. In addition to the training exercises and activities, we will guide you through a comprehensive puppy massage.

The class may also address behavior issues you may be experiencing at home. More serious behavior problems, such as aggression (with people or dogs) or fearfulness will not be discussed at length in class. These issues may call for more extensive work, likely requiring a home visit.  Click Here For Current Schedule

Dogma High

Dogma High is open to any dog over 6 months with foundational knowledge of basic commands: sit, stay, come, down. The class will review these commands and then take them to the next level employing distractions and increased duration to strengthen your dog’s response. This class also teaches impulse control such as “leave it”  and “wait”.  Clickers are optional. Class activities and exercises incorporate “figure 8” loose leash walking, calming ovals,  games and tricks. A fun-filled, action-packed challenge for both you and your dog. Click Here For Current Schedule

Good Dogma U./CGC

Our most advanced class, designed to reinforce and add challenge to the basic commands your dog has mastered. We’ll take the loose leash heel to the next step, working off leash and incorporating turns, halts, speed variations and distractions. The class will practice distance commands, utilize hand signals, and begin the phasing out of lures and treats. This class includes review and practice of the 10 “tests” for AKC Canine Good Citizenship certification. An opportunity to take the test at the last class meeting can be arranged with prior notice to the instructor. Click Here For Current Schedule

Reactive Rover

Does your dog lunge, growl, or bark at other dogs when out for a walk? This 45 minute workshop will address on-leash “reactive” behavior and how to manage it. While frightening and unpleasant, this behavior more often indicates excitement or fear more than aggression. Often it can be “the other end of the leash” that feeds the behavior and inadvertently reinforces it. This class will teach you how to anticipate a reactive burst and provide calm alternative responses in order to redirect and manage the behavior.  Basic commands are also incorporated into the process. This outdoor workshop is limited to five dogs per session. The cost is $25.  There are no discounts applicable. Click Here For Current Schedule

Pet Therapy Team Training and Assessment

To obtain certification as a pet therapy team, you and your dog will need to master specific skills. This 4 week class, for dogs over 1 year of age, will cover commands and behaviors required to achieve certification from a Pet Therapy evaluator. Basic commands will be reviewed, reinforced, and tested, including loose leash walking and focus. There are no “formal” prerequisites for this class. However, your dog should have solid basic obedience skills; this class does not teach basic commands (e.g. sit, stay, come, etc.). Your dog should be well socialized and comfortable around people of all ages, sizes and colors. Come, stay, and heel commands will have several added distractions, including movement, toys, food, sounds, and hospital equipment. Impulse control behavior will involve “Leave it” and the Toy/Food “Gauntlet.” We will also utilize clicker training to work on shaping behaviors such as “Touch.” This class will address desensitizing your dog so that it is comfortable being handled both by you and strangers. Exercises will include a complete body exam including petting, hugging, tugging, and changes in vocal inflection.

Passing the Canine Good Citizenship (CGC) test is not required but strongly recommended. You can find the list of tests at www.AKC.org by typing in Canine Good Citizenship test. Good Dogma can provide CGC testing at any time. You do not need to take a class to take the test. Click Here For Current Schedule