About Spokane Dog Training Club Inc

What they offer

Spokane Dog Training Club calls itself the only American Kennel Club sanctioned dog training club in the greater Spokane area. Its curriculum takes dogs from Home Companion pet classes into obedience, agility, nosework and rally, and conformation classes may be offered in the first session of the year. Most classes meet once a week for about an hour over eight weeks, with fewer than 15 dogs, one instructor and at least one assistant.

Getting started

Dogs new to training begin in Star Puppy, for puppies three to six months old, or in Beginning Home Companion. The Advanced Home Companion class offers the AKC Canine Good Citizen test, which many later classes require. Registration takes place on a set registration night with a short orientation and current shot records, and dogs adopted from an official city or county shelter within six months get a reduced first-class fee. Club members also help newcomers get started in tracking.

How they train

The club uses positive reinforcement with treats, toys and praise while teaching, then shows owners how to wean the dog off food. Owners of a dog that may be aggressive toward dogs or people should say so at registration so the dog can be evaluated.