We are offer humane, evidence-based and fun positive reinforcement dog training classes. We strive to offer force free classes with the least intrusive methods of modern dog training for both humans and canines. We do not support aversive, dominance or “balanced” training philosophies. HSSC trainers believe that reward-based dog training is the best way to build a trusting relationship between humans and their canines. For more information on why we believe science-based training is the most effective and ethical method, read the Dominance Position Statement from the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

All puppy classes are designed for puppies between 10–19 weeks. On the start date of class, your puppy should be 5 months or younger. If your pup is older they should join It’s Elementary Level 1.

• Proof of at least one distemper/parvo combination vaccine at least seven days prior to start of class.
• Proof of current rabies vaccination if puppy is over four months.
• Proof of current Bordetella vaccination.
• Please take a photo of vaccinations and email to dogtraining@humanesocietysoco.org
• Photo proof of vaccinations must be emailed two days prior to the start of in-person classes or your dog will not be able to attend class.

Dogs are eligible for an adult class once they have reached 4 months.

• Proof of current rabies vaccination.
• Proof of their last distemper/parvo combination booster. (First booster given one year after completion of puppy vaccinations, following boosters given every three years.)
• Proof of current bordetella vaccination.
• Please take a photo of vaccinations and email to dogtraining@humanesocietysoco.org
• Photo proof of vaccinations must be emailed two days prior to the start of in-person classes or your dog will not be able to attend class.

HSSC highly encourages all dogs over the age of 12 months to be spayed/neutered prior to registering for a training class. For more information on our low-cost, spay/neuter clinic please visit humanesocitysoco.org/spay-neuter-clinic

Unfortunately, dogs in heat are not able to attend class due to the distraction created for the other canines in class. Please contact dogtraining@humanesocietysoco.org for more information.

Your dogs must be free of any signs of communicable diseases in order to attend a class. This includes coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or display any other potential symptoms of illness within 24 hours of class. If you have to miss class because your dog has a communicable disease, please let us know. In order to return to class, we may ask for a note from your veterinarian stating that your dog is no longer contagious.

Dogs that have a history of aggression (snarling, snapping, biting) towards people or other dogs are not appropriate for our in-person group training classes. In addition, dogs that are reactive towards people (growl, barks, lunges) should not attend in-person group training classes. If your dog is reactive on-leash towards other dogs, please start their training with our Reactive Rover class (in person or virtual) or one-on-one training sessions. Your trainer can recommend next steps for training when you complete the class. If you think group classes are not for your dog, we can still help. We offer virtual services, one-on-one training consultations, and can provide help over the phone. Please send us a message dogtraining@sonomahumanesoco.org

Yes!

Each dog needs to register separately and have their own handler.

Both our Santa Rosa and Healdsburg campuses have several inside and outside training locations. You will receive the specific training location when you register.

If you are expecting an email and haven’t received one, it is possible the message was sent but went into your inbox junk/spam or promotional folder. Emails from your instructor, the Canine and Behavior Training Department or other staff will have an @humanesocietysoco.org address. If you cannot find an email that you are looking for, please email your instructor directly or contact us dogtraining@humanesocietysoco.org.

Occasionally, classes may be canceled due to weather conditions or low enrollment numbers. We will notify you through email and give you as much notice as possible. If the decision to cancel is made two hours or less from the start of your class, we will text you.

No. We ask that all clients register and pay for their classes online. Prepayment is required to register for a class. You will receive email confirmation.

If there is a last minute opening (less than 48 hours), we will contact you via phone/text as well as email. Our classes can fill up to 6 weeks in advance, so we recommend registering for another session with space and then adding yourself to the waitlist for your preferred session. We can easily transfer your registration fee should a spot in your preferred session open up.

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer make-up classes. If you need to miss a class please inform the instructor ASAP.

If you have registered for a class and need to cancel, you must notify the Humane Society of Sonoma County no less than ten (10) days prior to the first day of class for a full refund. If notification is received less than ten (10) days prior to class, we regret that we will not be able to offer a refund or credit. No refunds or credits will be given once the class has started or for missed classes in a series. It is not possible for us to offer make-up classes. Contact: dogtraining@humanesocietysoco.org to cancel a registration.

NOTE: The On-demand Pawsitively Puppies Orientation and the four-week Kinderpuppy Training Level 1 class included in your HSSC Pawsitively Puppies Adoption Package is a non-refundable part of your adoption package fees.  If you choose to enroll your puppy in another class, you may request that a credit be issued to be used within 90 days of the adoption for another training class.

If you are eligible to receive a refund, then you may request a credit instead. Credits must be used within 90 days and are subject to the same terms and conditions as a refund.

HSSC does not offer service dog training. Service Dogs are trained to be a companion to one person who often has a specific disability. You can find more information through Canine Companions for Independence or Assistance Dogs International.

Contact us! Please send us an email dogtraining@humanesocietysoco.org.