Beginner Life Skills

Learn how dogs think and teach everyday skills with positive reinforcement

Register here to be notified of winter class dates

Contact us about scholarships

✦ When? November / December 2025 (Dates TBD)

✦ Where? Santa Fe Animal Shelter (Roddey Rehabilitation Center)

✦ Price: $150 + Tax for 6 classes

Financial assistance available! Contact us about scholarships

✦ Class Focus

This 6-week group class covers essential practical skills like getting your dog's attention, coming when called, settling down, and basic cues like sit, while learning to work around distractions and make training enjoyable. You'll discover how dogs learn best, develop consistent communication, and address everyday challenges like jumping up and leash pulling.

Perfect for dogs of any age who are new to a family or haven't had much formal training, this class also benefits dogs who know some basics but need practice in a distracting group environment. You'll build confidence in your training while strengthening your bond with your pup.

First class is orientation without dogs in attendance.

✦ Prerequisites:

  • Dogs must be 6 months or older

  • Proof of DHPP /DHLPP, Bordetella, and rabies vaccinations

  • One dog per handler

  • No known history of biting / barking / lunging / growling directed towards other dogs or humans

Coming soon: Beginner Life Skills Winter Session, Reactive Dog 101

Interested in future classes? Register here and we’ll email you as soon as a new session launches!

  • Practice skills around real-life distractions (dogs, people, noises)

  • Build focus, calm behavior, and good manners in public settings

  • Strengthen your bond by learning together in a fun, supportive environment

  • Unsure if group classes are the right fit? Schedule a free discovery call to chat!

Why group classes?

  • Is highly reactive (barking, growling, lunging) toward other dogs or people

  • Is very fearful in new environments

  • Needs help with specific issues (e.g. separation anxiety, aggression, resource guarding)

  • In these cases, private training is usually the better choice for personalized support.

Classes are not the best fit if your dog:

Questions about group classes?

Schedule a free discovery call to discuss if they are the right fit for you and your dog.