Group Classes
Does your dog ignore you outside or forget his name when you get out in the world?
Group classes are a great way to teach your dog how to focus around real-world distractions. Many dogs enter class with an understanding of obedience skills at home but graduate with the ability to focus in the real world! Learn easy tips to increase communication, solve pesky behavior issues, and help foster self-control. You can have the dog you’ve always dreamed of.
Class Details
Meet once weekly for 45 minutes at Cascade Hospital for Animals
Six in-person classes to perfect each exercise under the direction of an instructor
Small class size to facilitate social distancing and optimal focus
Client login for discussion topic videos (biting, chewing, jumping, etc.)
Busy focusing on your pup in class? Afraid you will miss important information? Exclusive homework handouts available through our Client Login area for easy referral and catch-up.
Cost: $240/6-week session
Register today by clicking the Enroll button below!
Class Requirements
Up to date on age appropriate Distemper, Rabies and Bordetella.
Negative fecal examination or currently undergoing treatment.
Dog has lived with you for at least 10 days, without showing signs of illness.
Classes Offered
Puppy Survival 101
For puppies up to 6 months. Survive puppy-hood and have some fun! We cover basic obedience such as sit, down, loose leash walking, recall (come) and introduce stay. This class is ideal for younger pups. We also discuss problem prevention, potty training and other pesky puppy stuff!
Puppy Momentum 201
For dogs with basic training, looking to hone their skills in real-world setups. Focus on listening around distractions, self-control, and loose leash walking. Also teach your pup to go settle on a mat (out of sight!), leave-it and practice polite greetings. This 201 course isn’t just for puppies - dogs of all ages can join once they’ve graduated a 101 level course!
Adolescent Dog Survival 101
For puppies and dogs over 6 months of age. Say goodbye to the new-dog-chaos and bring peace back into your household. This course is geared towards problem solving. We also cover basic obedience such as sit, down, loose leash walking, recall (come) and stay.
Beyond Basics 301
For dogs of all ages looking to further training and communication. Hone your dog’s attention by working through dog, human, and object distractions. This course will increase your dog’s self-control through practice of on-leash distractions, backing up, and polite greetings. Learn how to apply practical skills to everyday life and make living with your dog joyfully effortless. The last class includes an assessment for the AKC’s Canine Good Citizens test. Prerequisite: Puppy Momentum 201 or equivalent.
Trick Class 201
Does your dog need a job? This class will give your dog’s brain a challenge. This upbeat, no pressure class is all about having fun with your dog! Trick training will include everything from closing the cupboard door, sit pretty, roll over and pushing a ball back and forth with your kids! No prerequisites, no stress, plenty of fun!
Class FAQ
What’s the difference between Puppy Survival 101 and Adolescent Survival 101?
Both courses cover exercises introducing sit, down, come, stay and loose leash walking.
Many dogs enrolling in the 101 class have been introduced to most or all of these cues. The 101 class teaches dogs to respond reliably in an environment complete with other dogs and people! If you struggle with distractions or need help with the basics – or both – 101 is the right class for you!
What’s the difference between Puppy/Adolescent 101 and Puppy Momentum 201?
The 201 course proofs the basics of sit, down and come with distractions. The class works toward an out of sight stay and loose leash walking past other dogs. We also introduce leave-it with food and real-world distractions.
This course is for all ages! We recommend dogs enrolling are at least 4 months but adult dogs are welcome, too!
Can I skip right to Puppy Momentum 201?
Dogs entering this class must have experience in a classroom environment. This can be accomplished by completing a 101-level course or equivalent work with a trainer. If your dog already knows sit, down, stay, come and is good at leash walking but is not great with distractions and has not participated in group class previously, we recommend enrolling in a 101-level course first.
Of the dogs that are enrolled without previous class experience, 80% of them end up switching back to complete a 101-level course before re-enrolling in the 201 level.
It is better for your dog to be at the top of their class than struggle to keep up. If you enroll in the 101 course but decide it’s too easy, let your instructor know and we will be happy to give you extra material to keep your pup’s mind engaged!
What’s the difference between Puppy Momentum 201 and Beyond Basics 301?
Puppy Momentum solidifies cue responses throughout varying distractions including household objects, food, people and other dogs. Beyond Basics moves each team toward the ultimate goal of the AKC (American Kennel Club) Canine Good Citizen Test. This test is often used as a precursor to therapy dog programs, for coverage under home insurance and some pet-specific housing requires proof of completion before allowing large breed dogs. This video includes each portion of the test that your dog will accomplish in the 6-week Beyond Basics course!
For more information on the CGC, check out the AKC website.
Trick Training - what’s it all about?
This class is fun and ever changing! Learn a variety of tricks from playing dead to turning on a push-light and even taking a bow. Trick training is fun and upbeat which strengthens your relationship with your dog. You and your dog will love this training class. Sign up and impress friends with your brilliant dog!
How much does class cost?
All 6-week class sessions cost $240. This includes online support and web access to written exercises and videos for each week’s homework.
When is the next class?
Click any of the “Enroll Now!” buttons to visit our scheduler. Once you’ve created your pup’s account, you will see available classes. If a class does not appear, it is likely full. Some classes allow for a waitlist and we will contact you if a spot opens up. You may need to scroll forward a couple months to find the next class opening of your choice.
Where are classes held?
All group classes are held at Cascade Hospital for Animals (6730 Cascade Road SE). The Alto location is only used for Playcare and boarding.
What if I have to miss a class?
If you and your pup have to miss a class, keep current by viewing the homework online. This will allow you to introduce the exercises at home and continue building to stay on track. We offer support so do not hesitate to reach out via email throughout the class if you are struggling with any exercises!
Which vaccines does my dog need before registering?
Puppies need at least 2 Distemper (DHPP or DHLPP) vaccines. The first Distemper is often given by the breeder. The second vaccine will be given by your vet at the first puppy appointment. Puppies require updated vaccines every 3-4 weeks until they are around 16-20 weeks of age. Your vet will set up a schedule to update remaining vaccines based on the age, size and health of your puppy. Bordetella, Influenza, and Rabies vaccines can be given at age appropriate times and as recommended by the vet. For example, the Rabies vaccine cannot be given before 12 weeks of age.
Influenza vaccine is not required but recommended. All enrolled dogs must have proof of a stool sample submitted to their vet.
