The dictionary defines obedience as "the act or practice of obeying or a willingness to obey or follow orders".  When relating the word obedience to our canine partners, it is much more than the ability to obey or follow orders.  Obedience is the foundation of our relationship with our dogs, it is about good manners, being able to interact appropriately with members of the dog world as well as the human world, having developed the confidence through training to adapt to almost any situation.  We ask a lot of our dogs when we bring them into our homes and our world.  We expect them to just know what we consider proper social etiquette, when that is not at all proper dog social etiquette.  That is where dog training and obedience come in to play.  It is about teaching them to listen to us, learn from us, and bond with us.

 There are several levels of obedience training.  The first level is Puppy Class for puppies less than 20 weeks old, or the Beginner Home Manners Class for dogs 16 weeks and older.  This class introduces the basic commands your dog needs to learn to become a well behaved member of your household and society in general.  We learn how to teach our dogs basic commands such as sit, down, heel on a loose leash, coming on command or recalls, sit and down stays.  We also discuss safety issues such as door respect, (not running out an open door until given permission), proper socialization with people and dogs, and basic health issues.

 After completing the Beginner Home Manners Class, those interested in continuing their dogs training can enroll in the Canine Good Citizen Class.  This class continues to refine the basic commands learned in the Beginner class as well as learning a few new advanced commands.  At the completion of this class there is a test devised by the American Kennel Club that will be given to all participants.  All those receiving a passing score will receive a Canine Good Citizen certificate from the AKC and can add that title to their dog's name.

 here are several other obedience classes available for those interested in continuing their dog's training, or are interested in obedience competition.  Obedience is the foundation for any sport you wish to undertake with your companion, and you will never regret having developed this bond with your dog. 

For a more detailed listing of each obedience class offered, please see the section "Frequently Asked Questions".  Our most recent class schedule and schedule of fees for these classes can be found in the "Class Schedule" section.

Good luck and Happy Training!!!