Obedience Classes

POTC offers all levels of obedience training, as well as "puppy" classes. They are taught by experienced club volunteers using a positive reinforcement approach. We offer training on Thursday nights, with fully matted instructional areas and reasonable rates. Classes run for 8 weeks, on a continuing basis, except for Puppy Class which is 4 weeks.

As with all dog training, please realize that attending class is just the beginning - it is the training and time that you spend with your dog outside of class where most of the learning and bonding takes place. The more you work with and train your dog, the more you will get out of any class.

All dogs and their owners are welcome to train with us - purebred or beloved mutt. There are many activities in which all dogs and their owners can participate.

Class Descriptions

Puppy Class - This is a class for puppies at least 12 weeks old, who have received their rabies vaccine. Things that are taught in this class include "sit", "stay", "come", "place", and "down", as well as help with common behavior "issues" that you might have with your new family member. A positive method of training is stressed. Graduates from this class can go on to Basic Obedience.

Basic Obedience - This class is designed to help you and your dog learn the basic skills that will be needed for competition obedience. You and your dog will learn the basics of "heel", sit, down, recalls, stay and the always needed, "attention". Your dog will also learn how to behave properly around other dogs. From this class your dog can go on to "Grad Basic", or even into the Advanced Class, depending on the dog and trainer. Your dog will also be prepared to enter into the Rally Class.

Grad Basic - This class follows Basic Obedience and builds on skills learned in that class. You and your dog will also learn how to do fronts & finishes, recalls, longer sit stays & down stays and sharpen heeling and attention skills. Skills and knowledge needed to perform in Rally, and for the Canine Good Citizen test may be offered depending on class interest.

Advanced Obedience - In this class, your dog will learn all the skills needed to compete at the Novice Obedience level, as well as the Open level. Skills for Utility are also addressed as your dog progresses through the class. This class is offered on a continuing basis, in 8 week blocks.

For information or questions concerning Obedience or Rally Classes, please contact Director of Training for Obedience – Jennifer Goudy