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Santa Clara Dog Training Club



Our Classes

ScentWork Level 4 - Intermediate/Advanced

$140

with Madeline Becker

Calendar Next available session starts Jul 22, 2025 at 5 pm, runs for 7 weeks
2 additional sessions through Jul 22, 2025

In this Scent Work class, teams will learn to identify and indicate specific scents used by AKC Scent Work and other trialing organizations. Teams will focus on refining key skills such as team handling, handler body movement, alert recognition, and reward timing.

Mastering these techniques will increase your proficiency and can lead to the achievement of AKC Scent Work titles and titles from other trialing organizations. Whether you're preparing for a trial or simply looking to improve your scent detection skills, this class will help you and your dog excel in the sport.

Price:  $140 + 2.50 registration fee for 7 week session, classes are held on Tuesdays

Prerequisite: Referral from ScentWork Level 3 Novice/Intermediate instructor or equivalent experience.

What to bring to class: What to bring to class: Flat collar, martingale, or slip collar.  No e-collars. At least a 10 foot leash that is easty to take on and off, no retractable leashes,  treat pouch, crate so your dog is safely put up during rotations.

Cancellation & Refunds: If you need to cancel anytime before the day of the first class of a session, we’re happy to offer a refund minus fees (currently about $13 to cover registration fees and credit card processing).No refunds can be given for cancellations made on or after the first class of a session. We’re also unable to offer refunds, credits, or prorated fees for missed classes once the session has started. I'm only signing up the one handler who’ll be working with the dog in class. If there are additional registrations with the same dog, those registrations will be canceled and refunded, minus fees. Need to switch to a class that’s a better fit for your skill level? Transfers may be possible, depending on space availability. Price differences will apply. Just contact us and we’ll do our best to help.

Utility Obedience

$140

with Lynn Buck

Calendar Next available session starts Jul 22, 2025 at 5 pm, runs for 7 weeks

The Utility class is the most challenging level of obedience, requiring precision, focus, and a strong bond between dog and handler.  This class covers the following requirements:

  • Signal exercise: The dog learns to respond to hand signals to stand, stay, down, sit, and come
  • Scent discrimination: The dog finds the handler's scent among other items and returns the correct item
  • Directed retrieve: The dog follows a signal to retrieve an item and return it to the handler
  • Moving stand and exam: The dog heels, stands, and stays while the handler moves away

Note: Directed Jumping is not included

Price:  $140 + 2.50 registration fee for 7 week session, classes are held on Tuesdays

Prerequisite: Must have prior instructor recommendation before registering for this class, no exceptions.

What to bring to class: Dumbell & Gloves - available from J &J dog supply, Max 200, or Training Reasures.  Long retractable leash, high value treats, treat pouch, water, crate so your dog is safely put up during rotations and a positive attitude! 

Cancellation & Refunds: If you need to cancel anytime before the day of the first class of a session, we’re happy to offer a refund minus fees (currently about $13 to cover registration fees and credit card processing).No refunds can be given for cancellations made on or after the first class of a session. We’re also unable to offer refunds, credits, or prorated fees for missed classes once the session has started. I'm only signing up the one handler who’ll be working with the dog in class. If there are additional registrations with the same dog, those registrations will be canceled and refunded, minus fees. Need to switch to a class that’s a better fit for your skill level? Transfers may be possible, depending on space availability. Price differences will apply. Just contact us and we’ll do our best to help.

Intermediate Obedience - 6 PM

$140

with Ani Elmaoglu

Calendar Next available session starts Jul 22, 2025 at 6 pm, runs for 7 weeks

This class is designed for dog owners who are looking to improve their obedience skills or want to prepare for the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) required behaviors. Key training areas include longer stays, duration attention, focused heeling, ignoring distractions, emergency stop, and rock-solid recall. Food rewards are used initially, but students will also learn how to transition away from food rewards by incorporating engagement and play into training.  Ask your instructor for more information about testing for the AKC CGC certificate.

Classes should be repeated to become proficient in all skills before advancing to the next level class.

Price:  $140 + 2.50 registration fee for 7 week session, classes are held on Tuesdays

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Beginner Obedience class or equivalent skill level.

What to bring to class: Flat collar, martingale, or slip collar, 6 foot leash, high value treats, treat pouch, water, mat/rug and a positive attitude!  No prong collars, choke chains, e-collars, retractable leash or harnesses that restrict shoulder movement.

Cancellation & Refunds: If you need to cancel anytime before the day of the first class of a session, we’re happy to offer a refund minus fees (currently about $13 to cover registration fees and credit card processing).No refunds can be given for cancellations made on or after the first class of a session. We’re also unable to offer refunds, credits, or prorated fees for missed classes once the session has started. I'm only signing up the one handler who’ll be working with the dog in class. If there are additional registrations with the same dog, those registrations will be canceled and refunded, minus fees. Need to switch to a class that’s a better fit for your skill level? Transfers may be possible, depending on space availability. Price differences will apply. Just contact us and we’ll do our best to help.

Intro to Novice Obedience

$140

with Dave Signorotti

Calendar Next available session starts Jul 22, 2025 at 6 pm, runs for 7 weeks
1 additional session on Jul 22, 2025

This class is a great next step to continue your obedience journey.  Skills will be practiced to improve the pace adjustment of the dog to the handler, ability for the dog to remain in place away from the handler and quicker response times.  Exercises include: Heel on Leash, Figure Eight, Sit for Exam, Sit Stay and Recall.

Classes should be repeated to become proficient in all skills before advancing to the next level class.

Price:  $140 + 2.50 registration fee for 7 week session, classes are held on Tuesdays

Prerequisite: Proficient in skills taught in Beginner Obedience and CGC / Intermediate class. 

What to bring to class: Flat collar, martingale, or slip collar, 6 foot leash, high value treats, treat pouch, water, and a positive attitude! No e-collars or retractable leashes.

Cancellation & Refunds: If you need to cancel anytime before the day of the first class of a session, we’re happy to offer a refund minus fees (currently about $13 to cover registration fees and credit card processing).No refunds can be given for cancellations made on or after the first class of a session. We’re also unable to offer refunds, credits, or prorated fees for missed classes once the session has started. I'm only signing up the one handler who’ll be working with the dog in class. If there are additional registrations with the same dog, those registrations will be canceled and refunded, minus fees. Need to switch to a class that’s a better fit for your skill level? Transfers may be possible, depending on space availability. Price differences will apply. Just contact us and we’ll do our best to help.

Puppy

$140

with Marly Louw

Calendar Next available session starts Jul 22, 2025 at 6 pm, runs for 7 weeks

Your puppy starts learning from the moment those little paws hit the ground. Our puppy training class provides you with the knowledge you need to prepare for your puppy's crucial first 8-16 weeks in your home, setting the foundation for a happy and well-behaved dog.

This class covers the 5 essential things to accomplish with your puppy before 16 weeks old, including:

  1. Bite Inhibition – Preventing resource guarding behaviors
  2. Socialization – Introducing your puppy to people, places, and things
  3. Potty Training – Solving common potty training problems
  4. Separation Anxiety Prevention – Helping your puppy feel comfortable when alone
  5. Body Handling – Grooming and veterinary handling to make visits stress-free

You’ll also engage in training games designed to enhance your puppy’s learning and strengthen your bond:

  • Relax on a mat: Teaching calmness and relaxation
  • Leave the treat to get the treat: Self-control exercises
  • Touch: Encouraging positive interactions
  • Watch Me: Building focus and attention
  • Recall Training: Teaching your puppy to come when called
  • Name Game: Responding to their name reliably
  • Drop It or Give: Teaching proper object handling
  • Walking on a leash: Proper leash manners for stress-free walks
  • Sit, Down, Stand, Stay: Basic obedience commands for a well-mannered puppy

With this course, you’ll gain the tools and confidence to ensure the first 8-16 weeks with your puppy are fun, educational, and stress-free. Get your puppy started on the right paw!

Price:  $140 + 2.50 registration fee for 7 week session, classes are held on Tuesdays

Prerequisite: Your puppy must be under 16 weeks or younger on the first day of class.  If your puppy is older, Beginner Obedience is the appropriate class to register. 

What to bring to class: Flat collar, 6 foot leash, high value treats, treat pouch, water, mat/rug and a positive attitude! No e-collars or retractable leashes.

Cancellation & Refunds: If you need to cancel anytime before the day of the first class of a session, we’re happy to offer a refund minus fees (currently about $13 to cover registration fees and credit card processing).No refunds can be given for cancellations made on or after the first class of a session. We’re also unable to offer refunds, credits, or prorated fees for missed classes once the session has started. I'm only signing up the one handler who’ll be working with the dog in class. If there are additional registrations with the same dog, those registrations will be canceled and refunded, minus fees. Need to switch to a class that’s a better fit for your skill level? Transfers may be possible, depending on space availability. Price differences will apply. Just contact us and we’ll do our best to help.

Rally Excellent & Master

$140

with Amanda Gardner

Calendar Next available session starts Jul 22, 2025 at 6 pm, runs for 7 weeks

In this class students ready for Excellent & Master signs, as well as continue to practice the past level signs. 

Price:  $140 + 2.50 registration fee for 7 week session, classes are held on Tuesdays

Prerequisite:

  • This class requires that the handler/dog has successfully completed the Rally Advanced class and has at least AKC Rally Novice title
  • Students moving up from the Rally Advanced class require the trainer’s approval 

What to bring to class: Flat collar, martingale, or slip collar, 6-foot leash, high-value treats, treat pouch, water, and a positive attitude!  No e-collars. Crate so your dog is safely put up during the walk-through that precedes each class.  

Cancellation & Refunds: Cancellation & Refunds: If you need to cancel anytime before the day of the first class of a session, we’re happy to offer a refund minus fees (currently about $13 to cover registration fees and credit card processing).No refunds can be given for cancellations made on or after the first class of a session. We’re also unable to offer refunds, credits, or prorated fees for missed classes once the session has started. I'm only signing up the one handler who’ll be working with the dog in class. If there are additional registrations with the same dog, those registrations will be canceled and refunded, minus fees. Need to switch to a class that’s a better fit for your skill level? Transfers may be possible, depending on space availability. Price differences will apply. Just contact us and we’ll do our best to help.

Run Throughs - Open and Utility - all levels

$140

with Lynn Buck

Calendar Next available session starts Jul 22, 2025 at 6 pm, runs for 7 weeks

Ready to compete! Run Through class is designed to help handlers and dogs prepare for the AKC Open (CDX) and Utility (UD) obedience titles with a trial-like experience. In this class, you'll have the chance to practice competition obedience exercises in a realistic, trial simulation environment.

Each session provides students the opportunity to perform the required exercises while receiving personalized feedback from the instructor. You'll get approximately ten minutes of individual attention per dog, allowing for targeted improvements and valuable training suggestions.

Whether you're aiming for your first AKC Open title or working on mastering the Utility level exercises, Run Through classes are an excellent way to boost your dog's trial performance and ring readiness.  This class will be outside on grass and may include jumps. 

Price:  $140 + 2.50 registration fee for 7 week session, classes are held on Tuesdays

What to bring to class: Dumbbell, dog crate and a positive attitude.

Cancellation & Refunds: If you need to cancel anytime before the day of the first class of a session, we’re happy to offer a refund minus fees (currently about $13 to cover registration fees and credit card processing).No refunds can be given for cancellations made on or after the first class of a session. We’re also unable to offer refunds, credits, or prorated fees for missed classes once the session has started. I'm only signing up the one handler who’ll be working with the dog in class. If there are additional registrations with the same dog, those registrations will be canceled and refunded, minus fees. Need to switch to a class that’s a better fit for your skill level? Transfers may be possible, depending on space availability. Price differences will apply. Just contact us and we’ll do our best to help.

ScentWork Level 3 - Novice/Intermediate

$140

with Erin Becker

Calendar Next session starts Jul 22, 2025 at 6 pm, runs for 7 weeks
1 additional session on Jul 22, 2025

This class is designed for dogs who are already working with odor and/or pairing and want to refine their skills for AKC Scent Work and other trialing organizations.

In this class, dog and handler teams will focus on improving key skills such as change of behaviors, reward timing, leash handling, handler body movement, and enhancing the dog's drive to odor. Whether you're preparing for a Scent Work competition or simply want to elevate your dog's abilities, this class will help strengthen your performance.

Classes should be repeated to become proficient in all skills before advancing to the next level class.

Prerequisite: Referral from ScentWork Beginning I & II instructor or  equivalent experience and dogs should recognize more than one odor.  

See the description of all scentwork classes and the order of progression: ScentWork Class descriptions and progression

Price: $142.50 for 7 week session.  Classes are held on Tuesdays

What to bring to class: What to bring to class: Flat collar, martingale, or slip collar.  No e-collar, choke chain, prong collars or harnesses restricting the shoulders. At least a 10 foot leash that is easty to take on and off, no retractable leashes,  treat pouch, crate so your dog is safely put up during rotations.

Cancellation & Refunds: If you need to cancel anytime before the day of the first class of a session, we’re happy to offer a refund minus fees (currently about $13 to cover registration fees and credit card processing).No refunds can be given for cancellations made on or after the first class of a session. We’re also unable to offer refunds, credits, or prorated fees for missed classes once the session has started. I'm only signing up the one handler who’ll be working with the dog in class. If there are additional registrations with the same dog, those registrations will be canceled and refunded, minus fees. Need to switch to a class that’s a better fit for your skill level? Transfers may be possible, depending on space availability. Price differences will apply. Just contact us and we’ll do our best to help.

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