Classes for Small Dogs
These in-person classes are designed for small dogs, 25 pounds and under and not taller than 15” at the back of the neck, age 4 months and older.
In this class, we will focus on how little dogs learn—teaching multiple skills in a comfortable environment without the presence of large dogs. Your dog will work on loose leash walking, settling, and much more. You can build your bond by having fun together.
Class Location
Oregon Humane Society Portland Campus
Animal Medical Learning Center
1067 NE Columbia Blvd., Portland, OR 97211
In this class, 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.
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.
Class Location
Oregon Humane Society Portland Campus
Animal Medical Learning Center
1067 NE Columbia Blvd., Portland, OR 97211
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
