What to Bring
Collar or harness
Bring whatever you currently use, but please avoid chain leashes and retractable leashes (e.g., Flexi leashes).
Leash
We recommend a 4-foot leash. A 6-foot leash works too, but longer ones are hard to manage in class.
Treats
Choose something small, soft, and high-value. Freeze-dried treats like Stewart Freeze-Dried Liver or Stella & Chewy’s Wild Weenies are great. Please avoid Milk Bones—they’re too hard and not motivating with all the distractions.
Restricted diets or allergies
Tell your instructor so we can avoid giving your dog the wrong treat. A tug toy can also be a great food-free reward.
Reactive or excitable dogs
Tie a red bandanna around your dog’s neck to let everyone know to help your dog succeed by giving them some space.
Not food motivated?
Bring a favorite toy (non-squeaky). Please avoid loose tennis balls—unless you’re in the proofing class, where they’re welcome!
During Class
Class size
Classes are capped at 10 students, usually ranging from 4–10 depending on demand.
Bringing family
Yes! Families are encouraged to attend. Only one person should handle the dog at a time, but you may switch during class.
Kids as handlers
Yes, but please consider safety and your child’s ability to manage the dog in a busy environment. Ask your instructor if unsure.
Dog-to-dog interaction
We follow a 6-foot rule—dogs should not greet each other during class. Social play makes focusing harder, and not all dogs are comfortable with greetings.
Other Questions
Missed a class?
Talk to your instructor. Most often, you can make up the missed week in the next session (e.g., if you miss Week 2 in January, attend Week 2 in February).
If class is canceled
We’ll notify you by text and email, and post on Facebook. Please double-check your confirmation email to ensure your contact info is correct.
Intact dogs
Allowed, except for females in season/heat. If your female comes into heat, do not bring her—contact us to discuss options.
Daytime classes
We offer a few daytime performance classes, but no basic obedience during the day. If evenings don’t work, private lessons with head trainer Nancy Miller are available. Call 423-870-7740 to schedule.
Service or therapy dog training
We don’t offer dedicated service/therapy dog classes. However, our Canine Good Citizen and CGC Advanced classes are excellent foundations for therapy work.
Discounts
We do not offer military or rescue discounts.