Group Dog Training Classes Sacramento

Group classes are built for dogs who already have some training behind them. They’re a natural fit if you’ve done private lessons with us, since class is where you practice those skills around other dogs. They’re also a low-key way to get to know us if you’re new. If you’re not sure how to handle and engage your dog around other dogs, like using the leash to keep them in a sit, or you’re not sure whether your dog is social, start with private lessons first. Because everyone in class has had some training, a dog who’s never had any is welcome but may feel a little lost. Reactive dogs aren’t a good fit, because we never start by putting a dog over threshold, and a private lesson is a better first step. Puppies are welcome. And if we don’t know you yet when you book, we’ll likely reach out for a quick chat first.

No. We don’t allow dogs to greet each other in class. But in busy places like pet stores, other dogs sometimes walk right up, so it helps to know how you’ll handle that and how your dog will react. If you’re not sure, start with a few private lessons first.

Yes. If you’re coming for socialization, bring your puppy in a cart so they can watch the world go by while they’re tiny. If you want to work with your puppy hands-on and you’ve never trained with a professional, give us a heads up so neither of you gets overwhelmed. Puppies who haven’t finished their full vaccine series need to stay off the ground, so a cart, bag, or blanket is perfect.

Group classes aren’t ideal for reactive dogs. We never start by putting a dog over threshold, and a class full of other dogs can do exactly that. A private plan is a better first step. See our reactive and fearful dog training.

You’re welcome to come, but you may feel a little lost, since everyone else in class has already had some training. Classes work best as practice during or after your private lessons.

We follow the legal vaccination requirements. Puppies who haven’t finished their full puppy vaccine series need to stay off the ground, so bring them in a cart, a bag, or on a blanket.

Book a free intro call and we’ll tell you honestly. You can also come to Speak Dog Saturday, a free chat with a trainer about your dog, one Saturday a month at Leash and Collar. If nothing on the schedule works for you yet, you can request a time.

We call them drop-in classes because there’s no set number to sign up for. They’re ongoing, and you can come to any of them. Book ahead of time, and we’d suggest not booking the same day. If you’re the only one signed up, it’s not really a group, so the class might not run, or it might be shorter. How long a class runs depends on the trainer and what’s going on that day. Book, then show up at the day and time listed. If you have questions or aren’t sure how our booking system works, just let us know.

Bring what you’d normally use when you’re out working with your dog. A 4 to 6 foot leash is ideal, and if you’re doing long line work, a 15-foot line. Bring high-value and low-value treats if you can, and water if we’ll be out and about. If there’s anything you use at home regularly, bring it too, at least until we get to know each other and know what you do and don’t need. If you’re not sure about something, bring it and leave it in the car.

Every booking is accepted by a trainer, and you’ll get a quick, personal confirmation. If you can’t make a class, 24 hours’ notice is ideal, but we’re flexible and happy to transfer your spot to another day. We don’t give refunds, but a transfer is always available.

Manners Monday, Urban Dog Socialization, and the Group Pack Walk are $35 a class. Urban Dog Socialization is limited to 4 dogs on purpose. Training alumni can get the Alumni Class Pack: 4 classes for $100, which is $25 each, good for any of our drop-in classes. Our community events are free.

The Free Community Pack Walk is open to clients, non-clients, foster dogs, and the whole dog-loving community. Dogs stay on leash the whole time, a 15-foot long line is recommended, and retractable leashes aren’t allowed. Free Foster Friday is training and socialization for dogs currently in foster care and available for adoption, and it requires rescue approval. Sangria Sundays is a free hangout for clients and friends, with no lesson and dogs optional.