No! All dogs are welcome.

If you are concerned about your dog’s ability to safely succeed in a classroom setting, a private training session would be a good first step for your dog before moving to group classes. The trainer can assess your dog and give you advice & guidance on next steps. You can also email behaviorservices@providenceac.org with any questions.

If your dog is generally friendly with people and other dogs and is over 6 months of age, then start with the Beginner Life Skills Class. If they are under 6 months old, then sign up for one of our puppy classes! If you still aren’t sure about what class is right for your dog, or if your dog has shown aggression, we recommend you schedule a private session to have one-on-one time with a trainer before starting a group class.

The Training Center entrance is located in Services Building behind the Adoption Center. The door is on the far left side of the building.

If you miss a class or private session, read the homework sheet for that week (if applicable) and ask your instructor if you have additional questions.

Cancellations 10 days prior will be fully refunded. 5 days or less for class cancellations and private training session cancellations will be 50% refunded. Once the class begins we are not able to give refunds.

If your dog is between 8-25 weeks of age then one or more of our puppy classes are perfect for you! If your dog is 6+ months old then start with the basics - our Beginner Life Skills. Here they will learn foundation skills which are crucial for all future training success.

If you still aren’t sure about what class is right for your dog or your dog has shown aggression we recommend you schedule a private session to have one-on-one time with a trainer before starting a group class.

Age appropriate vaccinations for puppies

Adults: rabies, DHPP, Bordetella

A hungry dog and your dogs’ favorite form of positive-reinforcement! That can be treats, toys or anything else they love.

We recommend you bring a generous supply (100+) of small, tasty, soft treats along with some of your dogs’ regular kibble. We recommend small bits of meat, cheese, small and soft prepared dog treats, or anything else your pet really wants to work for.

Collar/Harness: buckle collar, martingale collar, Gentle Leader™ head collar, or front-clasp harness. No chain collars, prong collars or shock/vibration collars.
Leash: Must be 4' or 6' long. No retractable leashes permitted.
A notebook and pen

Yes! Our classes and private sessions are family friendly. We encourage children to be involved in all parts of training classes, but for everyone's safety an adult must be present and maintain control of the dog at all times. Small children may become bored, tired, or disruptive, so we recommend you bring an extra adult who can tend to their needs. We ask no more than 2 children attend a class per household without prior permission from the trainer.

Please be aware other dogs in class may not be accustomed to children so we ask children to refrain from approaching other dogs, particularly without explicit permission from their owners.

It depends on the class, but generally 4-8 adult dogs in most classes, and up to 12 puppies in a class. Our space allows us to separate dogs and puppies if needed so it’s an enjoyable experience for all. Individual private sessions are just for you!

Private one-on-one sessions with a highly experienced & qualified trainer are a low-cost fee of $120 for an hour session.

Group Class fees range from $75-$250

One hour. Training longer than that isn’t advisable to keep your attention and your dogs interest.

Yes! All our trainers are Certified Professional Dog Trainers. Visit ccpdt.org for more information about this accreditation. We have assistance from Providence Animal Center Volunteers in all classes and many private sessions. They will be helping at the instruction of the Certified Trainer and are there to support your needs however they can.