Education
&
Recreation
for you & your dog
Group Classes
At Grateful Dog we believe that group classes are most effective after your dog has established at least some foundation skills. Auto check ins, response to their name, how to notice and dismiss distractions, and targeting a mat are helpful skills to have in place before adding the stimulation of new dogs and people in a group setting. With this in mind, we start all teams off with at least one private lesson to assess your current skill level and relationship. Check out the classes below to see a sample of what we offer. Our program schedule varies monthly, so please contact us for more information on our current and upcoming classes
Canine Life Skills
A foundation level course that emphasizes clear, calm and consistent communication for the mastery of basic manners. If you're new to training, or are welcoming a new canine companion into your home, this class is a great place to start. Foundation skills are necessary for both handlers and dogs! Our curriculum includes developing your skills of observation, timing, reinforcement and management; while concurrently teaching the dogs emotional control, and behaviors like sit, down/settle, wait, leave it, loose leash walking, foundations of a rockin' recall and more.
Adolescents Anonymous
For dogs of all ages with an adolescent attitude. Does your dog have good foundation skills but have recently begun struggling with staying focused? Are they ignoring your cues, or just plain blowing you off? If so, your dog may be entering that typical teenage stage of development where the outside world has become way more interesting than you! How you choose to handle these little indiscretions or “in-your-face” challenges can make a big difference in your adult dog’s behavior. This class will help you navigate this developmental period positively, with structure and management, all while taking your training and relationship to the next level. New students must get instructor approval and possible assessment before signing up.
Dog Sport Foundations
Interested in dog sports but don't know where to start? Eager to have fun with your dog while continuing training in an engaging, supportive atmosphere? This class is for you! Each week we will explore a different sport using overlapping skills that build on each other. You'll gain confidence working as a team, deepen your understanding of how animals learn, and become a more adept handler.
Prerequisite: Completion of a Foundation Level class or private assessment. Dog must be able to work in a group without causing disruption (excessive barking or reactivity).
Agility
Rally Obedience
Hounds Around Town
Rally Obedience is a fun , engaging level 3 sport class that moves teams through a series of varying levels exercises. We offer all levels of Rally training and enjoy welcoming newbies to the sport as well as those interested in competition. From the World Cynsport Rally Rulebook: "WCRL is a fun and dynamic team sport for pet owners and their dogs designed to test proficiency in training while navigating sequences of obedience exercises on a uniquely styled course. WCRL is a sport that anyone can do, regardless of physical limitations. Dogs of all ages and breeds, purebred and mixed, are encouraged to participate. WCRL is an affiliate of United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA)."
Call for more information and to see if your dog is ready to fit into one of our classes today!