About Richmond Dog Obedience Club

What it is

Richmond Dog Obedience Club is a club rather than a commercial trainer. It has members, officers, a joining process, dues and a class registration system, and it publishes a rolling seasonal schedule of classes with a set number of slots per course.

Class categories

The club divides its teaching into three categories. Manners classes focus on basic obedience skills described as the foundation for a harmonious relationship, and include a Puppy Star course and a Basic course. Specialty classes are presented as the next level up from manners, covering tricks, confidence building and trying something new. Competition classes are aimed at owners who have been bitten by the competition bug or want to teach more advanced concepts for fun.

Beyond classes

Alongside courses, the club runs run-throughs and seminars, listed with their own registration windows.

Why they train

The club's own case for training is brief and unpushy: training builds confidence, provides mental stimulation and strengthens the human-animal bond, and dogs are always learning, so it is never too late to start.

Practical notes

Registration requires an account with the dog added to a profile. The schedule is published in quarterly blocks, and the club notes that class dates and times may change.