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Group Classes
Group instruction with a personalized feel
Our small group classes are available for a variety of different training goals, including puppy training, basic obedience/manners through our unique Dogmanship classes, maintenance after a behavior modification program, and competitive sports like Agility and Rally. Some classes are offered regularly, while others are offered on-demand. If you have interest in a specific class that isn’t currently being offered, please let us know!
For information about online classes, please visit our Online Learning section.
General Class Information:
All classes run 6 weeks long and are 1-hour classes unless otherwise specified. Class descriptions and information can be found below. Class spots are limited and many classes fill very quickly, so don’t delay in registering!
To reserve your spot in a class, fill out a Class Registration Form for the class of your choice, and submit payment online.
Technology not your forte? No problem! We can email or mail you a registration form for any class. Just let us know!
Before registering for a class, please read through the registration information below.
Important Class Registration Information:
Class Prerequisites: Although you can register online for almost any of our classes, please keep in mind that you MUST have completed our prerequisite classes or been given prior approval before joining our more advanced classes. The only classes that do not require previous training are our S.T.A.R. Puppy classes for puppies in the appropriate age range for that class, and our Dogmanship 1 class for dogs 6 months and older. If you are interested in another class, be sure to check the prerequisites below. If you’re not sure if you have met the requirements, or if you have done training elsewhere and would like to ask us to make an exception, please contact us.
Littermates: We do not allow puppies or dogs who are littermates owned by the same family to attend class together. Owners with littermates may choose to sign up for one class, rotate which dog they bring each week, and practice the skills with both dogs at home; or they may choose to sign both dogs up for classes at different days/times, if available. We feel that this setup is in the best interest of the dogs, because of the potential for “Littermate Syndrome” to develop. This restriction also applies to dogs of similar age who have been or are being raised together, even if they are not related.
Disruptive Dogs: Group Classes are designed for dogs who do not have behavioral issues (or who have already worked successfully through prior issues via private training). In order to maintain a positive learning environment for dogs and owners, dogs who are reactive/aggressive or disruptive to the class environment may be asked to leave the class and switch to a different training program. In the case that this happens, you will be credited back 50% of the cost of the class to apply towards a different training program. To avoid this happening, if you are you unsure if your dog is suited to a class environment, you may want to consider an Evaluation first.
Class Cancellation Policy: Class registrations are non-refundable. If you have to drop a class and your spot is able to be filled prior to the class starting, you will be credited back 75% of the cost of the class to use for other training or services. Some exceptions may apply for extenuating circumstances.
Make-Up Lessons: Missed weeks of class can be made up with a private lesson for an additional charge. (Make up lessons are $50 for a 30-minute lesson.)
Evaluations: An Evaluation is a short, 30-minute session one-on-one with a trainer, designed to help you determine if a group class is right for your dog, and if so, which class is best to start with. Evaluations are usually appropriate in the following situations:
You are not sure whether a Group Class or one of our private training programs is the right choice for you and your dog.
You are not sure if your dog may display disruptive, reactive, or aggressive behavior in a class setting.
Your dog has completed prior training elsewhere, and you would like to bypass our usual prerequisites to start in one of our more advanced classes.
Our Classes:
S.T.A.R. Puppy Class
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $150 - Limit 6 Puppies
Our “S.T.A.R. Puppy” class is for dogs over 8 weeks and under 6 months old. It is designed to help get you and your new puppy off to the right start, covering important puppy raising concepts, common puppy problem solving, and placing an emphasis on positive socialization to help your pup develop into a balanced, confident adult. Some simple puppy obedience will be started, but we believe that formal obedience is only a tiny piece of successful puppy raising, so that will not be the primary focus of this class.
Individual S.T.A.R. Puppy classes may sometimes be broken into narrower age or size ranges to keep puppies of similar ages in classes together (please watch for additional age specifications listed with the individual classes below).
S.T.A.R. stands for Socialization, Training, Activity, and a Responsible owner - four things necessary to set puppies up for success in life! Owners and puppies completing these classes and meeting all corresponding requirements will be eligible for the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy award. More info here.
Upcoming Classes: Classes will be instructed by Jill Owen
Thursdays from 4:30-5:30pm, April 25th - May 30th
Thursdays from 6:00-7:00pm, April 25th - May 30th
Tentative Next Session: June 2024
No prerequisites. Puppies must be at least 8 weeks and under 6 months old at the start of the class. Puppies do not need to be fully vaccinated prior to attending, but must be staying up-to-date on age-appropriate vaccinations throughout the class.
Online Class Add-On: For an additional $25, you can get access to our Online Puppy Class, which covers puppy problem solving, some starter obedience training, socialization tips, etc. The online class also provides an opportunity to continue asking questions and getting feedback, even beyond the completion of the in person class. Please note that the online class is through Facebook Groups - you must have access to a Facebook account to access the online class.
Drop-In Puppy Socialization
Ongoing Class - 30 minute sessions - $10/class or Package of 6 classes for $50
This ongoing drop-in class is available once a week. You can pay per week, or purchase a package, but you are not required to attend consecutive weeks.
Socialization class will cover a number of activities, which will vary from week to week and may include: confidence building on new surfaces, objects, obstacles, etc.; exposure to new sights, sounds, etc.; socialization with new dogs, including both interactive socialization (play time) and passive socialization (pack walks, settling practice, or other exercises to build neutrality towards other dogs); and socialization with new people, including both interactive socialization and passive socialization.
NOTE: This is not a “training” class - we will not be covering obedience, manners, or problem solving except as it relates to puppies’ environmental and social confidence.
Upcoming Classes:
Every Wednesday, 5:30-6:00pm - ongoing, weekly unless otherwise specified
Prerequisites: No previous training required. Puppies must be between 8 weeks and 6 months old to attend socialization sessions. Please fill out the Application below and wait to receive the Confirmation and Class Information email prior to attending. Puppies do not need to be fully vaccinated prior to attending, but must be staying up-to-date on age-appropriate vaccinations throughout the class.
Dogmanship 1
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $150 - Limit 6 Dogs
“Dogmanship 1” is our primary starting point for dogs 6 months and older, or puppies who have graduated from Puppy Class.
In Dogmanship 1, you will learn a wide range of skills, including: how to communicate with your dog in a way he understands, how to teach your dog new skills, how to fairly and effectively manage and eliminate problematic behaviors, how to build a healthy, balanced relationship with your dog, and more. It takes dog training beyond just “obedience training” and focuses on the underlying relationship, clear communication, and giving the dog the ability to make choices.
Upcoming Classes: Instructors indicated with each individual class
Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30pm, April 23rd - June 4th (no class May 14th)
Instructed by Jill Owen
Thursdays, 7:30-8:30pm, April 25th - May 30th
Instructed by Jill Owen
Tentative Next Session: June 2024
Prerequisites: No previous training required. Dogs must be at least 6 months old at the start of class.
Online Class Add-On: For an additional $25, you can also get access to our Online Dogmanship 1 Class, which will give you the ability to go back and review any information you may have missed in class or forgotten, watch and rewatch demonstration videos, read through all of the information in written form, and really soak up all of the information from the class. It also provides you an opportunity to continue asking questions and getting feedback and advice, even beyond the completion of the 6 week in-person class. Please note that the online class is through Facebook Groups - you must have access to a Facebook account in order to access the online class.
“Play as the Way” Dogmanship
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $150 - Limit 6 Dogs
“Play As The Way” is an updated curriculum for our Dogmanship classes, which may eventually replace the current curriculum once we’ve offered the class a few times and have seen how it compares to the original curriculum.
What makes a “good dog”? You might think, lots of obedience training. And yet, most of us know dogs who have very little obedience training and know very few commands, who are still very good dogs. And most of us also know dogs who have extensive obedience training, but are still hard to live with. So, being a “good dog” is more than just obedience. And yet, “obedience” is all that traditional training classes teach. The “good dogs,” really, are the ones who knows when to engage with you, when to go be a dog, when to just chill out and relax, and how to do these things despite other distractions and temptations - and that is what this class will focus on teaching.
In our new “Play As The Way” Dogmanship class, we will be working on developing a communication system with your dog that he understands, teaching your dog the idea of “windows” and developing cues to ask your dog to play with you, play by themselves, or just chill out. We will also look at how to reduce conflict in your relationship with your dog, prevent problematic behaviors, and you will learn how to use play to teach your dog valuable life skills in a fun way. Of course, we will also cover some important obedience skills as well, such as recall, leash manners, sit, down, place, etc.
Upcoming Classes: Instructed by Danielle Stuber
PatW Dogmanship 1 Class:
Mondays, 4:30-5:30pm, April 22nd - June 10th (no class May 20th or 27th)Prerequisites: No previous training required. Dogs must be at least 6 months old at the start of class or have already taken our S.T.A.R. Puppy Class.
PatW Dogmanship 2 Class:
Mondays, 6:00-7:00pm, April 22nd - June 10th (no class May 20th or 27th)Prerequisites: Dogs must have completed the “Play as the Way” Dogmanship 1 class, Proofing Through Play class, Social Responsibility class, or have prior approval from the instructor. (Dogs may not join the Play as the Way Dogmanship 2 class from the regular Dogmanship 1 class.)
Tentative Next Session: June 2024
Dogmanship 2
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $150 - Limit 6 Dogs
Our Dogmanship 2 class builds upon our Dogmanship 1 class. This class focuses on teaching some advanced training concepts, and proofing skills around distractions. It will give owners training knowledge needed to prep their dog for the AKC Canine Good Citizen class, but focuses more on real world manners and obedience, not specifically the CGC test requirements.
Upcoming Classes:
Tuesdays, 6:00-7:00pm, April 23rd - June 4th (no class May 14th)
Instructed by Jill Owen
Tentative Next Session: June 2024
Prerequisites: Dogmanship 1
Dogmanship 3 (E-Collar)
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes* - $150** - Limit 6 Dogs
This class is taught by Danielle Stuber. Our Dogmanship 3 class takes all of the knowledge and skills learned in our Dogmanship 1 and 2 classes, and utilizes a remote training collar (or “e-collar”) to take the basic skills to the next level and achieve off-leash reliability. There is a big difference between dogs who are simply allowed off leash, and dogs who are trained to be off leash. This class uses thoughtful application of an often misunderstood training tool to provide an avenue to safely and responsibly allow your dog to have off leash freedom while avoiding any potential fallout from improper use the training tool.
* Class time will vary week-to-week, generally ranging between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
** The $150 cost of the class does not include the cost of the e-collar, which is required for this class. The acceptable e-collar brands/models required for this class cost about $200+
Upcoming Class:
None Currently Scheduled
Tentative Next Session: Summer 2024
Prerequisites: Dogmanship 1 and 2, and a high quality e-collar (Educator or Dogtra brand - Educator preferred).
If you do not already have an e-collar, you can purchase one through me when you sign up for the class.
“Train now, or forever hold your leash”
Specialty Classes:
AKC FitDog Class
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $100 - Limit 6 Dogs
The focus during the AKC Fit Dog course is to have fun with your dog by incorporating play into skill building lessons. The course is designed to expose dogs to a variety of exercise types including cardio, flexibility, balance and strength training, as well as mental fitness and confidence building. These benefits also result in a reduced risk of injury for canine athletes. We know that increased mental and physical stimulation also helps with behavioral wellness. Fitness programs can reduce boredom, increase confidence, and help eliminate problem behaviors. Teaching any new skill to a dog will target their mental fitness and navigating new equipment will boost confidence and proprioception skills. Benefits for your dog in this program include increased strength, cardiovascular health, flexibility, balance, and coordination.
AKC offers 3 different levels of FitDog training. In this class, Jill will work with students at whichever level they are at!
This course is required prior to taking the Intro to Agility class, and would also benefit teams who are interested in Competitive Obedience and/or Rally classes.
Upcoming Class: Instructed by Jill Owen
None Currently Scheduled
Tentative Next Session: TBD
Prerequisites: Dogmanship 1 and 2, or prior approval.
Dogs must be at least 1 year old.
“Proofing Through Play”
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $125 - Limit 5 Dogs
This class will focus on using Play to proof our dogs’ focus around distractions. First, we will ensure that each dog and owner has a good Game developed and can play in a way that is mutually enjoyable. Then, we will start proofing!
We’ll work first on helping the dog learn to ignoring distractions during play, then ignoring distractions during pauses in play, and eventually ignoring distractions during obedience, in order to earn play.
This class will be most valuable for dogs who will stay readily engaged with food rewards, chasing toys (flirt pole), or playing tug.
Upcoming Class:
None Scheduled
Tentative Next Session: TBD
Prerequisites: Dogmanship 1 and 2. Dogs should have high drive for food and/or toy. The more interested in Play your dog is, the more value you will get from this class!
GRC Social Responsibility Class
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $100 - Limit 6 Dogs
The GRC Social Responsibility Test is a similar concept to the AKC Canine Good Citizen test. GRC Dogsports is a newer venue of dog competition. There are three sections to the Social Responsibility test: Leash Communication, Verbal Obedience, and Liberty. This class will teach owners more about the Social Responsibility test, and work on the skills necessary to pass it.
The idea of Social Responsibility is that ALL dogs - “easy” dogs and “challenging” dogs - can (and should) be trained and handled in a responsible way. This class is open to dogs with or without a history of behavioral issues. We will practice holding our dogs to acceptable standards of control and obedience, as well as advocating for them in real-world scenarios.
Upcoming Class:
None Currently Scheduled
Tentative Next Session: TBD
Prerequisites: Instructor Approval
AKC Canine Good Citizen Prep Class
5 Weeks* - 1 Hour Classes - $100 - Limit 6 Dogs
This class is a preparation class for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test. Dogs are expected to already know the basic skills necessary to do the test, including: polite leash manners (even around distractions), sit, down, stay, and come.
In this class, you will learn what to expect at the Canine Good Citizen test and have opportunities to practice all of the exercises.
* This class will include 4 weeks of practice, followed by the AKC Canine Good Citizen test on the 5th week. Dogs will be divided into two groups for testing over the two weeks following the class. Cost of the test is included in the price of the class.
Upcoming Class:
None Currently Scheduled
Tentative Next Session: Possibly July 2024
Prerequisites: Dogmanship 1 and 2, or prior approval
AKC Advanced Canine Good Citizen
Practice and Evaluation Session
4 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $125* - Limit 4 Dogs
This session will be instructed by Jill Owen. This session includes 3 practice sessions and 1 opportunity for evaluation (on week 4) of the dog/owner team for the AKC Canine Good Citizen Community (aka CGC Advanced) and the AKC Canine Good Citizen Urban. Training all 4 weeks will be held at various public locations - not at the training facility. Dogs should already possess the ability to walk on a loose leash in distracting environments, be neutral to human and dogs, and be under the control of the handler. There is no additional cost for evaluations when taken as scheduled on the 4th week.
More information on the CGC Community (Advanced): Click Here
CGCA Video: Click Here
More information on the CGC Urban: Click Here
Upcoming Class: Instructed by Jill Owen
None Currently Scheduled
Tentative Next Session: June 2024
Prerequisites: Dogs must have their AKC Canine Good Citizen title, or have prior approval.
Dogs who do not already have their CGC title must test for and pass the CGC prior to being able to “officially” test for the CGCA or CGCU titles. CGC tests can be scheduled with Jill or an additional $15 prior to the CGCA/CGCU test on Week 4.
Advanced Distractions and Confidence Building Class
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $100 - Limit 6 Dogs
This class will be instructed by Jill Owen, and is designed to help prepare teams for the AKC Canine Good Citizen Advanced (CGCA) and Urban (CGCU) tests, the Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD) test, and/or the AKC Temperament Test (ATT). The skills learned during this class are based on existing core skills such as wait, leave it, sit, down, and walking on a loose leash. Foundation skills such as visiting (approaching and allowing handling by strangers) without jumping or licking and approaching and encountering equipment that moves or can be noisy are also practiced. Some exercises will be based specifically on the AKC Temperament Test items. This class is also suited to teams just looking to advance their obedience skills around distractions, even if certification is not a goal.
Please Note: Canine Initiative does not offer any Therapy Dog or AKC Temperament Test testing/certifications; however, we do have AKC CGC, CGCA, and CGCU classes/tests available periodically.
Upcoming Class:
Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30pm, April 23rd - June 4th (no class May 14th)
Instructed by Jill Owen
Our Tuesday class has filled, but Jill may be able to offer a Wednesday class, if we have enough interest. Please reach out if you would be interested!
Tentative Next Session: TBD
Prerequisites: AKC CGC, or prior approval
‘Boredom Busters’ Enrichment Class
3 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $50 - Limit 4 Dogs
Our dogs enrich our lives in so many ways - and we should reciprocate that gesture! We spend so much of our time and attention training our dogs to conform to our human lifestyle - how much time do we spend letting them just be a dog?
It is scientifically proven that all animals (domestic or wild) in captivity need enrichment; it is crucial to the physiological and psychological success of the animal by provoking mental and physical stimulation. Often the behavior problems that we attempt to “train out” of our dog are the result of a lack of proper mental and physical stimulation.
This class will teach you some ways to add enrichment to your dog’s life, focusing on various nose work games and interactive play with your dog.
Upcoming Class: Class will be instructed by Jill Owen
None Currently Scheduled
Tentative Next Session: TBD
Prerequisites: Dogmanship 1 and 2, or AKC CGC
Relationship Through Games
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $100 - Limit 6 Dogs
This class will introduce dogs and owners to a variety of different physically active games/activities/sports that they can do with their dogs. The class will include games such as: toy play games like tug and fetch; developing a game using food or personal play; games nose work, agility, and precision obedience games; and “drive sports” like the slat mill, weight pull, spring pole, and wall climb. We will discuss how these activities can be helpful for relationship building and teaching life skills through games.
Dogs do not have to love all of the different games in order to benefit from the class, but it is best if dogs are highly motivated for either food or toys, and preferably both, and have lots of energy.
This is an excellent opportunity for people looking to keep their dogs physically and mentally active and get out and do something fun and new, as well as owners who may be looking to get involved in dog sports in the future.
Upcoming Class: Instructed by Danielle Stuber
Mondays, 7:30-8:30pm, April 22nd - June 10th (no class May 20th or 27th)
Tentative Next Session: TBD
Prerequisites: Dogmanship 1 and 2, AKC CGC, or prior approval
Intro to Agility
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $100 - Limit 6 Dogs
The Intro to Agility class teaches a number of the foundational skills needed for agility such as confidence, balance, body awareness, etc., and introduces dogs to the agility obstacles in a way that is safe and allows them to feel confident on the equipment.
Agility is an excellent activity for dogs who would benefit from physical and/or mental exercise, or for owners just looking for a fun relationship-building activity to do with their dog. It can also be a good confidence building activity for dogs who are a little more shy, nervous, or sensitive.
Puppies under 1 year old may be limited on some equipment for their safety.
Upcoming Class:
None Currently Scheduled
Tentative Next Session: TBD
Prerequisites: Dogmanship 1 and 2 AND FitDog Class
Agility Run-Throughs
6 Weeks - $75 - Limit 8 Dogs
This class is designed to be used as practice or just-for-fun playtime for dogs who already know the agility obstacles. A course will be set and class participants will take turns running through the course. Each participant will get at least 2-3 runs per class.
While this class will be relatively self-led and I will not be “teaching” per se, I will be available to answer any questions or give feedback as needed.
Upcoming Class: None currently scheduled.
Tentative Next Session: TBD
Prerequisites: Agility Foundations or any Agility title
Rally Obedience
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $100 - Limit 6 Dogs
Rally-Obedience is a fun activity that incorporates obedience skills into a numbered course. Dogs walk with their owners in a heel position through the course, stopping at each numbered sign and completing the obedience skill outlined on that sign. Rally is a great option for dogs who want to get out and learn but need tightening up on their obedience, or maybe aren’t physically capable of doing higher impact activities like agility.
This class can be taken just as a fun class to do with your dog, or to tighten up obedience skills, or to practice for Rally competition.
Upcoming Class:
None Currently Scheduled. Ask me about our Obedience/Rally Club!
Tentative Next Session: TBD
Prerequisites: Dogmanship 1
AKC Novice/Intermediate Tricks Class
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $115 - Limit 6 Dogs
Tricks are an excellent way to keep your dog’s mind engaged. Mental exercise is just exhausting, and for many dogs more exhausting, than physical exercise. If you have trouble getting your dog the exercise he needs, tricks are a great way to give your dog exercise, even if you are limited by space. Dogs of any age can join the fun!
Cost of the class includes evaluations for the AKC Novice and Intermediate trick titles, if dogs know the tricks required to pass.
Upcoming Classes: Instructed by Jill Owen
No Classes Currently Scheduled
Tentative Next Session: TBD
Prerequisites: S.T.A.R. Puppy and/or Dogmanship 1
Holiday Preparation Class
6 Weeks - 1 Hour Classes - $100 - Limit 6 Dogs
This class will be instructed by Jill Owen, and is designed to prepare both dogs and their owners for many challenging scenarios they may experience during the upcoming holiday season. We will place a strong emphasis on proofing and generalizing obedience around a variety of challenging distractions, practicing polite manners around people and food, and much more! We will also discuss management strategies and holiday safety tips. This class is open to dogs with or without previous training!
Upcoming Class:
No Classes Currently Scheduled
Tentative Next Session: October 2024
Prerequisites: No previous training required! Dogs must be at least 6 months old.
Pack Walks and Social Group
Pack Walks: $5 Drop In - 30 minutes - Unlimited Dogs!
Social Group: 6 Weeks - 1 Hour - $75 - Limit 10 Dogs
or, $15 Drop In
Pack Walks and Social Group are a great way to give your dog socialization with other dogs in a safe, positive environment. Packs Walks are on leash and dogs must be under control. In Social Group, dogs will be taken off leash and allowed to interact.
Upcoming Class: No Social Group or Pack Walk classes currently scheduled.
Tentative Next Session:
Prerequisites: Sociability Evaluation
