Prerequisites: Dogs 6+ month old
This class is for dogs at least 6 months of age. The class will focus on establishing basic behaviors and good training habits for a lifetime of learning, utilizing the separation of the 3Ds (Distraction, Duration and Distance) for learning clarity with a strong emphasis on the “Timing of the Mark” and how treats are used within established science for maximum efficacy. This is an excellent class to begin your leadership skill development.
Beginner is an ideal class for preparing to obtain your CGC. Exercises include: Attention Focus, refining Loose Leash Walking (and getting ready for the next step of leash walking), Sit at the side, Down at the side, Stay, Leave It (food and objects), Wait, Handling / Sit for Exam, Stand, plus games to create a solid foundation for Come.
S.T.A.R. graduates will find that this class builds upon their excellent skills and yet challenging and informative.
Prerequisites: 2-6 month old dogs or permission of instructor
Raising a puppy isn't easy but you are not alone. Join our experts as they take you through socialization, potty training, play-biting, and how to prevent fears and phobias! Each class is action packed with information and activities - and as if that isn't enough, puppy play rounds out your evening creating a tired puppy while you learn to shape fair and appropriate play! Class is 90 minutes and includes handouts and one-on-one assistance, if you need it. We're here to help! Join us for a great learning experience.
Prerequisites: Dogs 6+ month old and ROC100 Intro to Rally-O
Rally began as a series of doodles that obedience competitors used “back in the day” to warm up their dogs before competition. Over time, it grew into a fun and exciting sport of its own — blending the precision of obedience with elements of agility.
Novice Rally-O continues this tradition by completing the introduction to novice signs while building key skills such as rear-end awareness. Students will practice on both mini-maps and full maps, reinforcing the obedience foundation you’ve already worked hard for while exploring the thrilling new challenges that rally brings.
Join us as we spin in circles, weave through cones, and, of course, bring plenty of treats! Students must also bring their three-ring binder from Intro to Rally-O.
Prerequisites: Dogs 7+ months old, Successful completion of OBC100 Beginner Obedience
This course will continue building on the foundation of OCC’s Beginner class moving towards randomizing reward structure and differentiating between bribery vs rewards. Initial focus will be on transitioning perfect loose leash walking into the more formal Heel with the automatic Sit, emphasizing Halts and pace changes as well as directional turns. Integrating the process of helping your dog learn to generalize and hold longer commands, we will work on Attention Focus duration, Sit Stay durations, Down Stay durations, and the Stand (without Handler support) and work towards Handling in the Stand-Stay.
Included are the Intro into a Figure-8 exercise, perfecting the Finish, Long Line Recalls, the Greeting Exercise Game and other Learning Challenges for a fun learning experience. Heavy emphasis on preparing for the CGC-Exam, but challenging enough for the dog that has already earned his/her CGC!
NOTE: This class will not meet November 25th.
Prerequisites: Dogs 10+ months old, Successful completion of OBC200 Intermediate Obedience
If you have taken Beginner Obedience and Intermediate, join this challenging and informative class to hone your skills and prepare you for the next level. We will play Beginner Obedience games, practice perfect CGC greetings, create flawless figure 8’s and lay a strong foundation for going off-leash with your obedience! We will go through Attention Focus in the Heel as a tool, Independent Down Stays (with duration), Stand for Exam, Wait-in-Motion, Sit-in-Motion, Down-in-Motion, and left and right side finish.
This class focuses on trouble-shooting the Beginner Obedience performance as well as task-analysis to focus on repairing incomplete commands and removing inadvertent body language and leash cues that are dragging your performance down. Designed as a team-building class, all members are invited to step up their game!
Prerequisites: Dogs 12+ months old, Successful completion of OBC201 Beyond Intermediate Obedience, AND Instructor approval
For those ready to title their dogs for Novice (CD-V), this class will pace you through the steps including how to set up an obedience trial map and strategies for successful submissions. We will begin recording in Week One. Bring your phone or other device to record your own runs. Copies of the AKC Obedience Maps and Virtual Trial Regulations will be provided.
Students will be permitted to repeat this class at regular cost (no discounts) if necessary to achieve this title if they continue to meet class requirements. This class does have a waiting list so Instructor approval is required to repeat to make sure that those that are on the waiting list are enrolled before repeating teams can be enrolled. Waiting list handler teams should remain enrolled in Advanced Obedience until they are accepted into this class to maintain their dog's readiness for trialing.
Bring your sense of humor and good sportsmanship attitude because the Virtual Trialers are a supportive team that wants to enjoy the virtual trialing experience!
For those ready to title their dogs for Beginner Novice (BN-V), this class will pace you through the steps including how to set up an obedience trial map and strategies for successful submissions. We will begin recording in Week One. Bring your phone or other device to record your own runs. Copies of the AKC Obedience Maps and Virtual Trial Regulations will be provided.
Prerequisites: Dogs 12+ months old, Successful completion of OBC300 Advanced Obedience, Passed OBT110 Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test
This course is designed with the Obedience Competitor in mind and will focus primarily on preparation for Companion Dog Trials. All candidates will be working primarily off-leash and must have off-leash concepts mastered. The class will set up and practice specifically for trials covering, registration, treat reduction and all concepts necessary to create well-mannered competitors. Weekly class goals will depend on the skill of the student competitors and may vary from class to class.
SKILLS REQUIRED: Super Advanced candidates must be able to demonstrate positive control of their dogs with and without the leash. The handler must be able to hold the dog’s Attention Focus for 3 minutes in the presence of distractions with the minimal use of treats; 3 minute SIT STAY away from the dog; 3 minute DOWN STAY without the presence of the handler; must be able to demonstrate a proper return and a RECALL off-leash without a long line. Strong Leave It and Wait are a must, as are STAND, FINISH, FIGURE-8 and HEEL (in an off-leash environment).
Candidates who are still mastering off-leash concepts but who demonstrate good skills in ADVANCED are welcome as long as their dog does not pose a significant risk to the dogs that are already completely off-leash. Training Tabs may be utilized. Long Lines may be used. Please bring your own.
Dogs at this level should already possess the Canine Good Citizen Urban award.
Prerequisites: Dogs 8+ month old, Successful completion of AGC101 Agility 1 Foundations: Part B
For those currently in Agility 2.
Note: This class is outdoors on the agility field. In the event of inclement weather, class sessions will be rescheduled.
NOTE: This class will not meet November 26th.
Prerequisites: Dogs 6+ month old and OBC200 Intermediate Obedience
Rally-O is a sport, a game, and a powerful way to strengthen your bond with your dog while sharpening obedience skills.
In this introduction to Rally Obedience, handler-dog teams will develop the foundational skills needed to successfully navigate Rally courses. These exercises are not only fun and engaging—they also enhance communication, trust, and teamwork between you and your dog.
Whether you're looking to reinforce your training, prepare for competition, or just enjoy a new challenge together, Rally is an ideal complement to regular obedience classes. It builds technical ability and focus in a dynamic, supportive environment, and offers a great way to stay active and connected with your canine partner.
Prerequisites: Dogs 12+ months old, Successful completion of OBC201 Beyond Intermediate Obedience
This course is the continuation of the Obedience relationship with the addition of advanced concepts of established commands including: long-line assisted Sit- and Down-Stays with distance, long distance Attention Focus, Heel-free with automatic Sit, off-leash Figure-8s, working in crowds for a tighter Heel, off-leash Stand for Exam, Rock Solid recalls with a formal approach and working up to Sit- and Down-Stays with the Handlers leaving the ring.
This class takes it to the edge using the simple scientific concepts introduced in the Beginner and Intermediate(s) classes. Are you ready?
Prerequisites: Dogs 8+ month old, Successful completion of AGC100 Agility 1 Foundations: Part A
Part 2 of a 2-part class. This indoor class will build on the skills learned in AGC 100 Agility 1 Foundations: Part A in teaching dog-handler teams foundational agility skills and safety. The curriculum is based on shaping behaviors through the use of positive reinforcement. Activities include start line stay, body awareness and flexibility, impulse control, introduction to contact end behavior, targeting/nose touch, directions, and handling “on the flat.” Dogs will continue to interact with equipment such as wobble board, tunnel, table, 2x2 weaves, and wing jumps (bars will be on the ground for puppies or very low for adult dogs). Dog-handler teams will begin sequencing with multiple obstacles.
Dogs must be fitted with a flat buckle collar and a six-foot leash. No choke, pinch, gentle leaders or corrective harnesses will be allowed. Owners need to bring lots of small, soft treats and A CRATE.
NOTE: This class will not meet November 30th.
For those moving up from Agility Foundations B
Prerequisites: Dogs 8+ month old, Successful completion of AGC201 Agility 2 Foundations: Part A
Is your dog talking to you and you don't know how to listen? By popular demand we are offering the canine Body Language class again! Learn 30 of the most used canine 250 catalogued body signals and what each means. Learn stand-alone signals and signal clusters for a greater understanding of the varied and subtle communication of your companion. This interactive classroom experience with handouts and slides is a "quick start" language program. Please note: This class is for people only (no dogs).
NOTE: This class will not meet November 27th.
Open to students who are currently qualified for Agility 3A or 3B and who hold active Key Club privileges.
This key club reservation offers Agility 3A and 3B students an opportunity to continue their training and maintain skills.
Please note that this is not a class; this is a key club reservation for more advanced students to work on things on their own. An approved agility key club form must be on file with the Board.
Prerequisites: ENS137 Canine Body Language
If you have taken ENS137 Canine Body Language more than once, it is time to hone your skills with something harder. Let's do short videos and discuss while we categorize our over 100+ library of video shorts collected just for discussion. Lively conversations guaranteed. Are you up for this fast-moving video experience?
This class is for people only (no dogs).
Prerequisites: By instructor invitation only, 1+ year old dogs
BY INSTRUCTOR INVITATION ONLY. This class requires a registration code to register. Student-dog teams must be referred by a current OCC Instructor. Please contact your instructor or training@occdogtraining.org for more information and an evaluation form. An Evaluation form will be provided and must be filled out prior to acceptance into the class.
Due to the highly specialized skills the class requires, there is a class charge is $180.00. No discounts can be used. If volunteer hours are utilized 8 hours will result in a $50 discount off the class price. This class is for dogs who are reactive (displaying aggressive or noisy displays towards other dogs) while on leash. Dogs must not be uncontrollable nor have a bite history. This session includes one group orientation (humans only) and three counter-conditioning and desensitization sessions set by appointment times - the first appointments will be right after the orientation. The reactive dogs will never be in the same room together and care will be taken to ensure no accidental sight-lines to other dogs during these session times. Enrolled dogs will be kept in secured vehicles until it is their turn to work. Appointment times should only be on the days that the class is scheduled. Enrolled students should take the time to observe other student's sessions to get the most out of the instruction offered. True aggression will not be covered in these sessions.
Payment will not be accepted until the Instructor has received and read each team's Evaluation form. On the first session, the Orientation will run an hour and appointment times will start after a short break. On the other two class days, appointments will be between 1:30pm and 3:30pm. The “classes” will focus on shaping a new behavior to the dog’s trigger and then flirting with each dog’s threshold while teaching the dog to control space with negotiation language (instead of confrontation language) creating a controlled and restrained response. This class is intensive in instruction and action.
Prerequisites: By instructor invitation only, 1+ year old dogs, RCC100 Reactivity Beginner
BY INSTRUCTOR INVITATION ONLY. This class requires a registration code to register. Student-dog teams must be referred by your OCC100 Instructor. Please contact your instructor or training@occdogtraining.org for more information.
Due to the highly specialized skills the class requires, there is a class charge is $150.00. No discounts can be used. If volunteer hours are utilized 8 hours will result in a $50 discount off the class price. This class will be made up of students that have completed Reactivity Beginner and have a reliable shaped response upon presentation of the trigger. In these sessions, we will work towards more realistic class settings with multiple triggers and dogs that move and interact naturally. The Intermediate Class may be merged with the Beginner Class depending upon enrollment numbers but the goals will remain appropriate to the dog’s level of understanding.
Training is fun, training changes your relationship with your dog and training changes your dog. But is training enough? Do you have behavioral concerns beyond the scope of obedience exercises? Come to this informative clinic, offered once a session to discuss relevant treatment plans to help shape your canine's behavior. Housetraining, Stealing Objects, Counter-Cruising, Excessive Barking, Door Greetings, Jumping up, Toys and Inappropriate Chewing, are just a few of the subjects on the table. This Clinic is purely a Q&A. Your questions will be answered by our Certified Master Trainer and animal behavior expert. Attendees are not required to stay for the entire clinic once their concern has been addressed. Come and go as you please. This Workshop is for humans only, but dogs may attend if they remain manageable during discussions. While we may discuss Reactivity, Human-directed Aggression and Dog-to-Dog Aggression, we regret that these dogs cannot attend the discussion.
Prerequisites: 4+ month old dogs under 15 lbs
This unique play opportunity will teach you how to "ground" your tiny dog during play and to create trust in the working partnership of you and your dog. Littles who are well grounded and have shown bravery may be asked if they would like to stay over into the Wallflowers class! We will actively discuss body language as it occurs.
No females in heat, no dogs with known reactivity issues, no dogs with a history of a bite. Additionally, play time may be restricted for intact males.
Please bring your own crates if you need one. This class will not have moderated entrances and exits, instead the owner will be on the floor with their dog. If you cannot sit on the floor, this class will not benefit your dog. Event Rules are available on-site. Come join this unique play experience!
Prerequisites: Curiosity about interpreting canine body language
Learn canine body language by watching and actively discussing as it occurs in the play environment.
Registration for this class is for people only, if you wish to bring your dog please sign-up with your dog for the appropriate Fair Play class instead and you will still be able to participate in the conversation.
Prerequisites: 5 month to 8 year old dogs
Shy dogs unite! Come play with other shy dogs! Wallflowers who have shown bravery may be asked if they would like to stay over into the Adult Play class! Hopefully our Wallflowers will graduate from “Shy Play” and move up into the Adult Play Class. This class may also be appropriate for some of our smaller or younger dogs. We will actively discuss body language as it occurs.
Please bring your own crates if you need one. Entrances and Exits are moderated. Event Rules are available on-site.
If your dog has NEVER played in a moderated group before, you are welcome to sign-up for pre-play testing to see if your dog’s skills are appropriate for group play. This testing is available by appointment times that are not necessarily on Fair Play Fridays. Contact the Instructor for testing. If your dog needs One-on-One Therapeutic play, this service is available by appointment.
**To assure valid vaccinations and to regulate the classes, all participants must be registered in order to play.
Prerequisites: 8 month to 8 year old dogs
All dogs over 8 months and under 8 years of age are eligible to play! We will actively discuss body language as it occurs.
If your dog has NEVER played in a moderated group before, you are welcome to sign-up for pre-play testing to see if your dog’s skills are appropriate for group play. This testing is available by appointment times that are not necessarily on Fair Play Fridays. Contact the Instructor for testing. Age exceptions can be granted on a case-by-case basis (contact the Instructor if you would like to be considered for an exception). If your dog needs One-on-One Therapeutic play, this service is available by appointment.
Prerequisites: 1+ year old dogs and instructor invitation
Therapy Dog Informational Clinic Curious about therapy dog work? Wondering if your dog has what it takes? Join us!
This exciting, humans-only clinic is designed to give you a clear picture of what therapy dog work is all about. We’ll answer the big questions:
What exactly is a therapy dog?
What skills and temperament are required?
How does testing and certification work?
How can you start preparing now?
Featuring a fun and informative presentation, we will also have a panel of experienced trainers and therapy dog handlers ready to share real-world insights and answer all your questions. Whether you're just beginning to explore the idea or already on the path, you’ll leave with a solid understanding of next steps and how to set your dog up for success.
Potluck dinner begins at 6:00 pm
Bring a dish and enjoy mingling with your fellow members.
Member meeting 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
This is the best way to get more involved with the club! Find out what's going on. Take advantage of volunteer opportunities. Provide your input and help OCC in its objective to promote the training of dogs.
Testing. This should be ignored