Oregon Humane Society
  Pet Training
Training Classes
 
 
  Class Offerings

Basic Manners Dog Training Classes (Dogs 4 months and older)

What is it? The Oregon Humane Society offers dog training classes that are fun, positive and easy to fit into your life.  Our flexible class schedule enables you to attend class when it's convenient for you.  Our program offers a unique alternative to traditional dog training classes that usually meet once a week for 6-8 weeks and cannot accommodate students who must miss a class.  Our format is more like a gym membership in that we offer classes throughout the week that you can attend at your convenience.  Just give us a call on the day of class and let us know you're coming.  Class times listed below.

 

Requirements:  Your dog MUST meet the following requirements to participate:

 

1. YOUR DOG MUST BE AT LEAST 4 MONTHS OF AGE.

 

2. YOUR DOG MUST BE SPAYED OR NEUTERED.

 

3. We require that your dog has shown NO KNOWN AGGRESSION.

 

4.  You dog must be current on VACCINATIONS including Da2pp, Rabies, and Bordatella.  (Dogs between 4 & 6 months old do not have to be vaccinated for Rabies.)

 

*Prerequisite:  Everyone MUST first attend our free Intro to Training class before taking Basic Manners. 

Upcoming Intro To Training Class Schedule:

November 20th, Thursday 6:30-7pm

November 22nd, Saturday 2-2:30pm

December 4th & 18th, Thurs. 6:30-7pm

December 13th, Saturday 2-2:30pm  

Intro To Training Class is for people only, please do not bring dogs to class.  You can just drop in for the Intro Class, no need to register. Class is located in the Ehmann Classroom in our west building. 

The Intro to Training Class will provide you with: an overview of our training style and methods, realistic expectations for what you will learn in class; the opportunity to register and ask questions; and and a schedule of our weekly classes.

 

What will my dog and I learn in the Basic Manners Classes?

 

In Level 1, we will help you teach your dog basic commands like “sit”, “down”, “stay”, and the basics of loose-leash walking.  We also help your dog learn to take treats nicely, how to focus on his or her owner, and how to come when called.  We use real life scenarios so the skills you learn in class transfer easily to your home and life.

 

In Level 2, we will help you and your dog master basic commands with the added difficulty of distraction.  Dogs will also learn “leave it”, “sit for guests”, and how to tolerate grooming. 

 

When: You will receive a current schedule at your Intro To Training Class.  Please do not come to a Basic Manners class with your dog unless you have first attended an Intro To Training class (see above for information). 

Current Class Times:

Tuesdays: 5-5:45 pm or 5:45-6:30 pm

Wednesdays: 12-12:45pm

Thursdays: 6-6:45 pm or 6:45-7:30pm

Fridays: 3-3:45pm

 

NOTE: After purchasing a pass, you may attend as many classes as you wish until it expires.  We require that students let us know if they are coming to class on the day of class.

 

Where:  The Oregon Humane Society, 1067 NE Columbia Blvd., Portland, OR 97211 in Manners Hall in the new Animal Medical Learning Center

 

Price:  1 month training pass: $105; 2 month training pass: $185.  (Oregon Humane Society dogs and dogs from other local shelters are entitled to a $15 discount)

 

To Register: Please register at our Intro To Training class, see details above under ‘Prerequisite’.

 

T-Touch for Dogs - Beginner

Want to spend some quality time with your dog and improve your pet’s health at the same time?  Sign up for one of our Tellington Touch workshops.  These hands-on classes will provide you with expert instruction while you practice on your own dog.

 

Instructor:  Dawn Jansen – certified T-Touch practitioner

 

Price: $65 With Dog,  $40 Without Dog

 

When: 2009 dates will be posted in late December.

Where:  Manners Hall at the Oregon Humane Society.

 

What is T-Touch?  T-Touch is relaxation method based on light circular movements of the fingers and hands all over the body.  Tellington TTouch is a specialized approach to the care and training of our animal companions.  Developed by internationally recognized animal expert, Linda Tellington-Jones, this method based on cooperation and respect offers a positive approach to training, can improve performance and health and presents solutions to common behavioral and physical problems. It also helps establish a deeper rapport between humans and animals through increased understanding and more effective communication.  The Tellington TTouch can help in cases of:

  • Excessive Barking and Chewing
  • Leash Pulling
  • Jumping Up
  • Aggressive Behavior
  • Extreme Fear and Shyness
  • Resistance to Grooming
  • Excitability and Nervousness
  • Car Sickness
  • Problems Associated With Aging

This gentle method is currently being used by animal owners, trainers, breeders, veterinarians, zoo personnel and shelter workers in several countries.  Sign up today, space is limited.

 

Requirements:  Each participant may bring one of their own animals to class.  We trust that your dog is controllable and will be able to attend class without major disruptions to other participants.  We require that your dog has never bitten another dog or a person and also that your dog is spayed or neutered. We require proof of your dog’s current vaccinations for bordatella, distemper, parvo, and rabies. 

 

To Register: Email Sue Lay with your name and if you plan to bring your dog or audit.  The cost for the workshop is per household.  Payment is required to hold your place.

 

What to bring: We suggest you bring a snack for break time and also a bed or blanket for your dog.  You may want to bring a cushion for yourself since there will be some sitting on the floor.  Bring proof of your dog’s current vaccinations. 

 

T-Touch for Dogs - Beyond the Basics

In this more advanced class we’ll help you develop your current T-Touch skills and expand your knowledge to include more in-depth and sophisticated techniques. If your dog is comfortable around other dogs and people, then you can bring your own dog to practice on. For those of you who’d like to practice without your dog, you can sign up for the audit option. Auditors will be able to practice on the dogs attending the workshop.

 

When: Saturday, January 24th, 10:30 am - 2:30 pm

 

Where: Oregon Humane Society, Manners Hall

 

PREREQUISITE: In order to attend, we ask that you have either attended one of our prior 4-hour T Touch workshops OR that you have attended one of the OHS Volunteer T Touch trainings.  See requirements below.

 

Price: $65 to bring your dog; $45 to audit (OHS Volunteers receive a 30% discount.)

The cost for the workshop is per household.

 

To Register: please email Sue Lay. Please let us know if you are an OHS volunteer and if you are bringing your dog or auditing.  Payment is required to hold your place.

 

Note: Space available for 10 dogs and their owners, and 4 individuals who are auditing the class.

 

REQUIREMENTS: Your dog must be: spayed or neutered, current on vaccinations, and have no history of aggression. We require proof of vaccinations for Rabies, Distemper, Bordetella and Parvo.

 

 

Introduction to Animal Communication

Have you ever wondered about Animal Communication?  This brand new class will explore the basics of animal communication - what it is, how it works, and fun techniques to practice on your own.  This training is open to the general public as well as OHS volunteers and staff.  Please leave your animals at home and bring photos of your pets if you want to try to communicate with your own animal. Please note, the instructor will not be offering any private readings - this workshop is for you to explore your own animal communication skills!  Come with an open mind and a willingness to try something new!

Instructor: Roberta Cobb - longtime OHS volunteer who has been communicating with shelter pets for over five years. She also serves on the OHS Technical Animal Rescue team, trained to respond locally when animals are in danger and nationally during large-scale disasters.

When:  Attend 2 Wednesdays:

January 14th & 21st from 6-8 pm

(Must attend both.)

 

Where: Ehmann Classroom, Animal Medical and Learning Center


Price: Free, Donations Appreciated.

To register:  Space is limited.  Please email Sue Lay and reserve your spot.  Let us know your name, how many in your party, and if you're an OHS volunteer or staff member or a member of the public.

 

Shy Dog Class

Is your dog scared of its own shadow?  Our Shy Dog Class is for people who have shy, scared or timid dogs.   This class is for people only, dogs do not attend this class - this way you can participate even if your dog is too fearful or overwhelmed to attend. The instructors will help you learn specialized dog training techniques designed to build your dog’s confidence and good manners while taking into account your pet’s individual needs. We will help you learn how your behavior affects your dog in positive and negative ways. You’ll go home with tools to handle your dog’s fears in a healthy, supportive way.

 

When: 2009 dates will be posted in December.

 

Where: Manners Hall at The Oregon Humane Society, 1067 NE Columbia Blvd., Portland, OR 97211 in in the new Animal Medical Learning Center

 

Price: $45 (30% off for active OHS Volunteers) Please pay the day of the workshop at our little store.  They accept all methods of payment.

 

To Register: Register online.

 

Reactive Rover Class


Does your dog not get along well with others? Does your dog lunge and bark at other dogs when on a leash? This class will focus on training methods for reactive dogs. We will make accommodations for reactive dogs to help them learn and feel comfortable in class.  Please note, dogs do not attend the first class.

 

3 Upcoming Classes:

Thursdays, Nov. 6th - Dec. 18th:

4:15 - 5:00 pm (SOLD OUT)

(6-week Class - We will skip 11/27.)

 

Wednesdays, Dec. 3rd - Jan. 21st:  

6:30 - 7:15 pm (STILL AVAILABLE) OR

7:30 – 8:15 pm (SOLD OUT)

(6-Week Class - We will skip 12/24 and 12/31.)  

Please note: Both classes meet together on the first night only from 6:30 - 7:15pm.

 

Where: Manners Hall at the Oregon Humane Society

 

Price: $150 (We are sorry, but there are no discounts offered for this class.)

 

Requirements: Your dog must be spayed or neutered and at least 4 months old.  We require proof of your dog’s current vaccinations for bordatella, distemper, parvo, and rabies. (Dogs between 4 & 6 months old do not have to be vaccinated for Rabies.)

To Register:

Register Online 4:15 - 5:00 pm 11/6

Register Online 6:30 - 7:15 pm 12/3

Register Online 7:30 - 8:15 pm 12/3

*If a 5-person minimum per class is not met, you will be contacted about switching to a different class or refunded your payment.

 

Note: Proof of vaccinations is required for all classes. Please bring vet records to the first class. Dogs do not attend the first class.

 

Problem Pooch Class

An open discussion where you can ask questions about your problem pooch.  Those who attend get expert advice and training tips on their dog’s behavior problems.

 

When and Where::

Saturday, Nov. 15th, 12:30 - 1:30 pm Conference Room 

or

Saturday, Dec. 13th, 12:30 - 1:30 pm

Manners Hall/Animal Medical Learning Ctr.

 

Price and How to Register: No need to register - just show up!  Donations appreciated.

 

Note: This class is for humans only, please leave furry friends at home.

Finicky Feline Class

This is the place to ask questions about your finicky feline. Those who attend can get advice and tips on their cat’s behavior problems. Class is open to the public.  Topics often include litter box training issues, introducing a new cat into the home, and furniture scratching.

 

When: The 2nd Saturday of every month at 12:30 pm. Next class:  

Saturday: December 13th, 12:30 - 1:30 pm.

 

Where: Ehmann Classroom at the Oregon Humane Society’s Animal Medical Learning Center.

 

Cost/How to Register: Free!  Donations appreciated.  No need to register - just show up.

 

Note: This class is for humans only, please leave furry friends at home.

 

One-on-One Training Consultations

Are you having behavior problems with your four-legged friend? Consider coming in for a private training consultation at OHS. Our Certified Pet Dog Trainers can offer tips and advice on how to control your dog with positive reinforcement.You will go away with practical tools to improve your dog-handling skills. Common issues people seek help with include: excessive barking, home alone issues, leash reactivity, hyperactivity and timidity. Don’t be embarrassed about your dog’s level of training - we've seen it all! 

Consultations are also available for cat owners who need help with issues like litter box training or introducing a new cat in the home.

 

To schedule a consultation: call (503) 285-7722 x225

 

One-Hour Consultation:

Regular Price is $55.

Discount Price for Dogs from Area Shelters (including OHS) is $40.

 

Please also see our Pet Care and Advice Page for more helpful information.

 

Not finding what you are looking for?

We would love to provide classes and workshops for all of our supporters. If there is a dog training or animal behavior topic that you are interested in, please let us know! Email Sue Lay or call (503) 285-7722 x225