Adolescent Dog Training Classes
Classes for Dogs Between 6–18 Months
Adolescence is a challenging time for owners and their dogs. These in-person classes can help set you and your new pet on the right path together.
Does your dog bark and lunge at other dogs? Contact us to help determine the right class for you.
Dogs should be 6–18 months at the start of class.
This class will help you through the challenges of dog adolescence. Using positive reinforcement, we will review basic cues plus learn new ways to deal with adolescent behaviors such as lack of focus with you, jumping, and pulling on the leash.
The focus will be on teaching your teenage dog to make appropriate choices, apply self-regulation around distractions, and grow to be a polite and well-socialized adult dog!
The first class is for people only; please leave your dog at home.
Class Location
Oregon Humane Society Portland Campus
Animal Medical Learning Center, Manners Hall
1067 NE Columbia Blvd., Portland, OR 97211
Dogs should be 6–18 months at the start of class.
This class will help you through the challenges of dog adolescence. Using positive reinforcement, we will review basic cues plus learn new ways to deal with adolescent behaviors such as lack of focus with you, jumping, and pulling on the leash.
The focus will be on teaching your teenage dog to make appropriate choices, apply self-regulation around distractions, and grow to be a polite and well-socialized adult dog!
The first class is for people only; please leave your dog at home.
Class Location
Oregon Humane Society Salem Campus
Canine Classroom
4246 Turner Rd. SE, Salem, OR 97317
Get more useful tips on navigating canine adolescence with our virtual classes and on-demand videos.
Our Training Philosophy
At Oregon Humane Society, our trainers focus on building a strong, healthy bond between pets and people through scientifically based positive reinforcement methods. We do not use fear or intimidation-based tactics, and believe that reward-based techniques and education is the best way to promote a trusting and respectful relationship.
For this reason, we ask that dogs do not wear prong collars, choke chains, or electronic collars to our classes. We also ask that dogs are on a regular, 6-foot leash—no flexi leashes, please. If you are currently using any of these, our trainers are always happy to suggest alternatives.
What to Expect
Signing Up for Classes
Our certified trainers want to ensure that you and your pet get the training help that you need. Not all classes are suited for every dog. If your dog barks and lunges at other dogs or has bitten anyone, please contact us to help determine the right class for you.
Registration fees are per pet. We use Mindbody for our scheduling software, which works best with Chrome. When you sign up for your first class, you will be asked to set up an account with Mindbody, using a login and password that is unique to you. Already signed up for a class? Access your training schedule here.
Attending Classes
- Classes are held at our Portland campus in the Animal Medical Learning Center and at our Salem campus in Canine Classroom. Get directions here.
- Attendance is limited to two people per pet.
- Bring your dog on a collar or harness and a 4-6 ft leash.
- Bring medium-high value treats cut into small pieces (like liver, cheese, chicken, or jerky).
- Bring a treat pouch, fanny pack, or apron to stash your treats during training to keep your hands free.
- Bring something on which your dog can lay down (like a towel, dog bed, or old yoga mat).
- Optional: Bring a water bottle and a chew toy for your dog to settle with between exercises (no squeaky toys, please).
More Training Help
Have questions about our training facilities or classes? Need more help for your pet? Check out our frequently-asked questions, use our interactive resource tool, sign up for a training class, or book a private training to find solutions.
Contact Us
Training & Behavior
(503) 802-6729
Free Pet Behavior Helpline: (503) 416-2983
