Training in Portland

Puppy Manners Class

$180 for six weeks of training. Puppies attending should be 9 to 15 weeks old at the start of class.

In this fun and informative class, you will learn how to set your puppy up for success in your home. You’ll discover how to handle play-biting and potty training and learn how to teach your puppy cues like sit, down, come, and name recognition.  In addition, your puppy will have time to safely socialize with other puppies in your class.

Puppies attending should be 9 to 15 weeks old at the start of class. If your pup will be 16 weeks or older when class begins, please sign up for either our Adolescent Manners Class or our Level 1 Class in Levels instead.

The first class is for people only, please leave your puppy at home.

Class Requirements

Please limit attendance to 2 people. Please contact us if you need to make an exception or bring your children to class. If you (or anyone in your household) are not feeling well, please stay home.

Your puppy must be:

• Between 9 and 15 weeks of age at the START of class (not at the time you sign you up online).
• Up-to-date on vaccinations. Your puppy must have received at least one round of a distemper/parvo combination vaccine at least seven days prior to starting class. Bordetella vaccine is recommended. Rabies vaccination and spay/neuter are not required since dogs are under 7 months of age.
• Healthy and free of any symptoms of illness. No coughing, sneezing, diarrhea, vomiting, etc. within 24 hours of class.

Puppy Romps

$20 per session. We have two romp classes:

Puppy Romp 1 is for puppies 9 – 13 weeks 
Puppy Romp 2 is for puppies 11 – 18 weeks

During our Puppy Romps you can introduce your puppy to other healthy puppies and allow them to interact and socialize! Helping your puppy learn the appropriate way to play with other Pups can help prevent behavioral problems as they mature.  In between play sessions, our certified dog trainers give you some basic tips and apply simple training games so you will have the best relationship possible with your puppy! If your puppy is 11-13 weeks, and your pup has never been to a romp before, please sign up for Puppy Romp 1.

Use calendar below to sign up for a class. Calendar shows one week at a time, click on full calendar to see future classes.

Romp Requirements

Please limit attendance to 2 people to attend Romp or Shy Puppy Training and Socialization Session with your dog. Please contact us if you need to make an exception or bring your children to class. If you (or anyone in your household) are not feeling well, please stay home.

Your puppy must be:

• Attending the romp appropriate for their age (i.e.: 9 – 13 weeks; 11 – 18 weeks).
• If your puppy age falls in with both classes, and you pup has never been to a romp before, please sign up for Puppy Romp 1.
• Only attending Shy Puppy Training and Socialization Session if you have a shy puppy 9-18 weeks
• Up-to-date on vaccinations. Your puppy must have received at least one round of a distemper/parvo combination vaccine at least seven days prior to attending Romp. Bordetella vaccine is recommended. Rabies vaccination and spay/neuter are not required since dogs are under 6 months of age.
• Healthy and free of any symptoms of illness. No coughing, sneezing, diarrhea, vomiting, etc. within 24 hours of Romp.

• Please be sure your puppy is wearing a well-fitted collar or harness and a 4 – 6 foot leash that they can drag during play. Please bring a variety of treats with you as well.
• If your puppy is not fully vaccinated, we recommend carrying them from your car into Manners Hall. We clean and disinfect Manners Hall before each Romp, so your puppy can safely play on the floor.

If there is not a “sign up now” button on the widget, then the Romp you are interested in attending is sold out. Please continue to check back for spots to open up, as people tend to cancel at the last minute. Walk-ins are not allowed during this time.

Shy Puppy Training and Socialization Sessions

Note: These session are only for shy puppies, between the age of 9-18 weeks. Please do not register if your puppy is playful, outgoing and wants to Romp. Instead register for Romp 1 or 2 (depending on your puppy’s age) or a Puppy Manners Class (for puppies 9-15 weeks at start of class).

$20 per session. For puppies 9 – 18 weeks
If you had a hard time socializing your puppy due to COVID or if you have a pup who is just shy in general, then come to a Shy Puppy Training and Socialization Session.
We will teach you what to do when your puppy is timid, help you read your pups signals and help your puppy get accustomed to other shy puppies in a calmer, controlled setting with expert guidance.

Levels – Basic Dog Training at OHS 

Levels is our version of Basic Manners Training. You and your dog (4 months and older) can learn at your own pace as our classes allow you to make your own schedule from several classes that are offered each week. Prior to your first class with your dog, you will need to attend our Intro to Levels Training class. Learn more about the Intro class and more information about the Levels classes:

Adolescent Manners at OHS

$180 for six weeks of training. For dogs 4 months – 1 year of age

This class will help you through the challenge of dog adolescence. Using positive reinforcement, we will review basic cues plus learn new ways to deal with adolescent behaviors such as demanding attention and leash walking. The focus will be on teaching your teenage puppy to make appropriate choices, apply self-control around distractions, and grow to be a polite and well-socialized adult dog!

Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Class – Includes Test 

$150 for five weeks of training. For dogs 1 year of age and older

CGC Prep Class is an advanced 5-week class that is for graduates of or Levels Program. We cover exercises to prepare you and your dog for the CGC test. We will learn how to help our dog be successful with the 10 skill elements of the test, such as: greeting strangers politely, basic loose leash walking, stay and calmly passing another dog.  The last week of the class is devoted to the test itself.

Prerequisites

• Dogs need to be 1 year or older at the start of the class.
• Completion of all 4 levels or our Levels Program is required.
• Positive Reinforcement training experience in a group class setting is required.
• Owners need to be familiar with marker training.
• Owners need to be able to recognize their dogs’ calming signals.

NOTE: As in all our classes, treats and positive reinforcement methods are used. As a reminder, flexible/extendable leashes, leash corrections, choke chains, prong collars, or shock collars are not allowed.

Clever Canine – Training Through Games

$120 for 4 weeks of training. For dogs 4 months and up.

Looking for something fun and educational to do with your dog? Then join us for “Clever Canine” where you will learn how to use games and tricks to train basic manners and provide your dog with exercise as well as much needed mental enrichment. We will teach you low impact activities good for adolescents and seniors alike that combine training with enjoyment and highlight all the opportunities for you to apply the techniques in the real world. A basic knowledge of marker training is helpful but not required! This lively class is for dogs 4 months and older, and we welcome more than one handler per dog so that the whole family can join in on the fun! Each week will have a specialized theme consisting of:

• Pattern Games
• Agility
• Useful Tricks
• Rally

Little Learners – Training for Smaller Dogs

$150 for 5 weeks of training. For dogs 4 months and up. 

This class is for smaller dogs, 25 lbs. and under and not taller than 15” at the back of the neck. In this class, we will focus on how little dogs learn as we teach multiple skills in an environment that keeps your small dog comfortable. Your dog will work on learning how to walk on a loose leash, auto settle and much more and you can build your bond by having fun together.

Reactive Rover 1 at OHS

$225 for six weeks of training. For dogs eight months and older

Does your dog lunge and bark when they see other dogs when out on a walk? In this class your will learn strategic management tools, safe leash handling and positive training techniques that will help create a calmer dog and handler and make walk-time more enjoyable. We’ll lead you through guided practice sessions with progressively more difficult triggers, building up to exercises around other dogs to help teach and encourage calm, appropriate behavior. By the end of the course, you will have a lot of skills and increased confidence to continue training with your dog at home and out in the world. For more practice and advanced skills, you have the options to enroll in Reactive Rover 2!

Reactive Rover does not address off-leash aggression issues. If your dog is reactive towards people, worried about new environments, or if you’d just like to focus more on loose-leash walking and impulse control, try our in-person or virtual private classes.

Reactive Rover 2 at OHS

$150 for four weeks of training. For dogs eight months and older

This 4 week class is for Graduates of Reactive Rover (or graduates of private training with instructor’s permission) and allows dogs and handlers to further hone and practice their on-leash skills. Using games and cues we will work to close the distance between dog and trigger and also encourage the dogs to remain calm and focused with distractions at a greater intensity. Outdoor activities may be included, weather permitting. This is an ideal way to get more practice if you are struggling to find controlled set-ups out in the world, if it’s been a while since you took Reactive Rover 1, or if you want to keep training momentum going after the first Reactive Rover series. You and your dog are welcome to enroll in this 4 week class more than once, to keep practicing.

Small and Reactive

$190 for five weeks of training. For dogs 6 months and up

Does your tiny dog (under 25 lbs.) have a big bark when they see other dogs, people, or scary objects? If so, this class is for you! We’ll lead you through guided practice sessions with progressively more difficult triggers, building up to exercises around other dogs to help teach and encourage calm, appropriate behavior. You will learn strategic management tools, safe leash handling and positive training techniques that will help create a calmer dog and handler and make walk-time more enjoyable. By the end of the course, you will have a lot of skills and increased confidence to continue training with your dog at home and out in the world.

Start Over Rover

$150 for five weeks of training. For dogs 4 months and up

Have you recently adopted a dog and feel unsure of where to start when it comes to training? There can be so much conflicting advice from family, well-meaning neighbors and the internet! Let the certified professional trainers at OHS help set you on the right path to have the best life possible with your new furry friend. If you have adopted a dog from a shelter or rescue in the past 90 days, join us and other new rescue dog owners for Start Over Rover. We will touch on basic training cues but also games and exercises to help your dog adjust socially. We will teach you how to help your dog relax and enjoy being handled. Plus, you and your dog may make some new friends with shared goals!

Are you at your wits’ end because of your kitten’s or cat’s behavior? We can help! 

Virtual Kitten-garten Class for Kittens 

$95 for 4 weeks of training

Congratulations on your new kitten! Did you know cats can learn? They can! Impress your friends when you show them how your cat will sit for a treat. Not only will you learn this and other tricks, you will also learn how to help your kitten be a well-adjusted cat. By learning how to make a car ride less scary, nail trims stress free and other useful tips, you can help to prepare your kitten for a better adulthood. For kittens 6 months and younger.

Cat Specialty Virtual Classes

In the following 1-hour specialty virtual classes you and your cat will learn different techniques that will boost your cat’s confidence and improve your cat’s mental stimulation. You will have some bonding time with your cat, both during the class and after with the skills you will learn.

Things to know:

• This class is for cats 2 months and up
• Please have your cats’ favorite treats available for the class
• We recommend that your cat is familiar with clicker or marker training before taking one of these classes as this will help with some of the training. You can rent our Introduction to Clicker Training Video here (insert link). A target stick with a clicker is a great tool to use with cats for clicker training.
• We use Zoom for our virtual classes. Please be sure to enable emails when signing up for our classes to be sure you receive the Zoom link.

Virtual Introducing your new Kitten or Cat to a Resident Pet

$25 for 1-hour Class

Bringing a new kitten or cat home has a lot of emotions for everyone. A slow introduction is important, as well as the setup of your home and the process before the introduction. Learn tips and techniques to make the process as stress free as possible in this 1-hour class.

Virtual Counter Surfing and other Unwanted Cat Behaviors

$25 for 1-hour Class

Jumping on the counter is common for cats to do – they are closer to you, they find good stuff to eat, and they can explore, but that is not always the best for them or you. Learn alternative behaviors that will keep both you and your cat happier. These alternatives will also work for keeping your cat off of the woodstove, fireplace or other places you do not want them.

Virtual Feline Enrichment Class

$25 for 1-hour Class

Cats are very curious and smart and need daily enrichment to give them mental and physical stimulation, especially if they are indoor only. This class will teach you how to create positive experiences for your cat to be less stressed and less bored, while helping their mind and body to be more active.

Virtual Adventures with Your Cat

$25 for 1-hour Class

Do you and your cat want to take adventures together? Cats going out on hikes, going camping and just going for a walk is becoming popular in the Pacific NW. Learn the steps and tools you will need to have your cat feel comfortable going out in the world with you. These include using a harness, what to do when a dog is on the same path as you, creating a safe space for your cat and more. You and your cat will get a strong bond and your cat will enjoy all the new sights and smells.

Virtual Cat Carriers, Car Rides and Vet Visits – Oh My!

$25 for 1-hour Class

Is it a struggle to get your cat in the carrier? Do you and your cat dread what will happen next when the carrier comes out? Learn how to make these needed tasks less stressful with tools, tips, and education in this class. You, your cat and your vet will appreciate it.

Private Training Consultations – Dogs, Puppies, Cats & Kittens

Do you need training advice with your puppy, dog, kitten, or cat? Maybe you need help starting off in the right direction with your new puppy or kitten or maybe you are having behavior problems? We can help!

During a one-on-one consultation, we will address your specific needs. You will learn easy to implement techniques to improve your pet’s behavior using positive reinforcement to train desired responses. We offer one-time sessions, or you can purchase a package with multiple visits. Visits for dogs and puppies can be in person at OHS or be virtual.  Visits for Cats and Kittens are virtual only.

We can help with:

• Shy/Fearful behaviors
• Preparing your pet for a baby
• Litter Box Issues
• Multi-pet Household problems
• Puppy or Kitten Training
• Leash Reactivity
• A new pet adjust to their new home
• And more!

We specialize in helping pets with special needs and pets from shelters.

Price

$85 for one consultation, either on-site or virtual visit. Consultations are typically 45 minutes.

$225 for a pack of three consultations, good for on-site and virtual visits. Consultations are typically 45 minutes each. If you are planning to purchase a 3-pack, we recommend meeting with the same trainer for each appointment.

Proceeds from consultation fees go to support the animals and programs at OHS.

Consultation fees are per household, not pet. When you schedule your appointment, let us know in the “notes” field if you plan to have two pets with you. If bringing two dogs to an appointment at OHS, please have a handler for each dog.

Class Requirements

Please choose one adult in your household to attend your group class, romp or one-on-one session with your dog. We ask that you only come to OHS if all members of your household are healthy. You will need to stay home if you or anyone in your household has been sick in the last two weeks. Masks are optional. During your visit to OHS, please practice physical distancing and leave at least 6 feet of space between you and other people you may encounter, both indoors or out. Restrooms are available upon request and we ask that you respect occupancy limits. You will not have access to a water fountain. Learn more about our in-person training services, including our new COVID-19 safety requirements:

All dogs over 1 year of age must be spayed or neutered to attend group training classes. We offer private training consultations for people who have unaltered dogs. All dogs should also be healthy and current on vaccinations, including a distemper/parvo combination vaccine and rabies vaccine (once over six months). Dogs should be wearing a flat collar, martingale collar, harness or head halter and be on a four to six foot leash. We do not allow prong collars, electronic collars, chain collars, chain leashes or extending leashes in class.

We currently do not have any scheduled – Please Check Back to see in Person Learning Workshops

Virtual Navigating Canine Adolescence Live Presentation

$25 for 1 hour class. People Only.

Note: Be sure to opt in to emails to receive the Zoom link

Are you seeing more challenging behavior from your dog now that they are between 5 months and 2 years old? Jumping on people, easily distracted, acting like a leash gremlin and sometimes driving you crazy—it might seem like they forgot everything learned in puppy class. This is normal! Your dog is a canine adolescent, which can start as early as 16-17 weeks, and these “teenage years” are a particularly difficult time for both the dogs and their people. Learn how to use positive reinforcement training, games, and management techniques to guide your dog into a stress-free, happy adulthood.

2/15/23 Class

3/26/23 Class

Virtual What is my dog telling me?

Note: Be sure to opt in to emails to receive the Zoom link

$25 for 1 hour class. People Only.

During this educational, interactive presentation, you’ll learn how dogs express themselves using body language. Keep your dog happy and safe by learning how to tell when he or she is worried, stressed, or unhappy. This is a great class for all dog owners – especially those who visit dog parks, have kids at home or who have just adopted a new dog.

Virtual Help for your Leash-Reactive Dog Live Presentation

Note: Be sure to opt in to emails to receive the Zoom link

$25 for 1 hour class. People Only.

Is it a struggle to walk your dog because they bark and lunge, or they pay attention to everything in the environment other than you? This virtual seminar will cover causes and treatment options for reactive behavior of any kind, with special focus on the leash-reactive dog. Led by an instructor from our popular Reactive Rover class, students in this one-hour class will learn about positive training techniques, habit changes and management techniques that can improve walks with enough practice and consistency. Attendees will also get information about group classes and private training that may help them reach their goals. 

2/26/23 Class

3/15/23 Class

Our training philosophy focuses on building a strong, healthy bond between pets and their pet parents through positive reinforcement. We do not use fear or intimidation-based tactics. OHS trainers believe that reward-based techniques and education behavior is the best way to promote a trusting and respectful relationship between individuals and their pets.

OHS trainers use scientifically based, positive reinforcement training methods. For this reason we ask that dogs do not wear prong collars (metal or plastic), choke chains or electronic collars to any of the classes. We also ask that dogs are on a regular, 6ft leash – no flexi leashes please. If you and your dogs are using any of the above, our trainers are always happy to suggest an alternative. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Our instructors are experienced Certified Professional Dog Trainers or working towards certification.

• Bring your dog on a collar or harness and a 4-6 Ft leash.
• Bring medium to high value treats cut into small pieces ( for example: liver, cheese, chicken or jerky)
• Bring a treat pouch, fanny pack or an apron to keep your treats in during training, this will free your hands to handle your dog easier
• Bring something for your dog to lay down on, such as a towel, dog bed or old yoga mat
• If desired, bring a water bottle and a chew toy (no squeaky toys please) for your dog to relax with in between exercises.
• Meet us on the Western side of the OHS building

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