Group dog training classes are one of the most effective ways to build real-world reliability in your dog — because the real world is full of distractions, other dogs, and unpredictable situations. At The Service Dog Team Academy, our group classes are built around positive reinforcement methods and led by certified trainers Valerie Fry and Keisha Tucker. Whether you’re working on basic manners, preparing for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test, or maintaining skills alongside a service dog in training, our group format gives your dog the socialization and structured practice they need to perform consistently — not just at home, but everywhere.
What We Cover in Group Classes
Our group classes focus on the foundational obedience skills and social behaviors that every well-mannered dog needs. Classes are structured to build on each other, so your dog isn’t just learning commands — they’re learning to respond reliably around other dogs, unfamiliar people, and real-world distractions.
- Sit, down, stay, and wait in group settings
- Loose-leash walking with distractions present
- Leave it and impulse control around other dogs
- Greeting people politely without jumping
- Basic socialization skills and calm behavior in public
- Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test preparation
Canine Good Citizen Prep
Our group classes are an ideal environment for dogs working toward their AKC Canine Good Citizen certification. CGC is a 10-step evaluation that tests your dog’s manners and your control as a handler — and both Valerie and Keisha are certified AKC CGC Evaluators, meaning they administer the test themselves. If your dog is already in our service dog training program, group classes may be a required component at the direction of Valerie or Keisha to build focus and resilience around other working dogs.
Class Details
Location: [Location TBD — confirm with Valerie or Keisha]
Schedule: [Days and times TBD — confirm with Valerie or Keisha]
Class size: Small groups to ensure every dog gets individual attention
Price: [Pricing TBD — confirm with Valerie or Keisha]
Not sure if group classes are the right fit? Contact us and we’ll help you figure out which program makes the most sense for your dog’s age, temperament, and goals.
Who Group Classes Are For
- Dogs who need work on basic obedience in real-world settings
- Dogs preparing for the AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluation
- Dogs who have completed Board & Train and are maintaining their skills
- Service dogs in training working toward public access reliability
- Handlers who want to train alongside their dog in a structured group environment
Group Classes FAQs
What skill level does my dog need to join a group class?
It depends on the class. We offer classes at different levels, so whether your dog is a beginner or already has some obedience foundation, there’s likely a class that fits. Contact us to discuss your dog’s current skills and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Are group classes good for reactive or anxious dogs?
It depends on the degree of reactivity. Mild anxiety or low-level leash reactivity can often be addressed in a structured group setting with proper management. Dogs with significant reactivity or aggression toward other dogs may need to start with in-home private training or our Board & Train program before joining a group class. Contact us and we’ll assess your dog’s situation honestly.
How many dogs are in each class?
We keep class sizes small so every dog and handler team gets real attention — not just a seat in a crowd. [Confirm exact cap with Valerie or Keisha and update here.]
What training methods do you use in group classes?
Positive reinforcement exclusively. We don’t use punishment, corrections, prong collars, or shock collars in any of our programs. Our trainers are certified through the Karen Pryor Academy and the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), and everything we teach is grounded in current animal behavior science.
Can my dog attend group classes while enrolled in the service dog training program?
Yes — and for some dogs in our service dog program, group class participation is required. Working around other service dogs in training builds the focus and resilience needed for real-world public access. Valerie or Keisha will let you know if group classes are a recommended or required component for your dog.
Is group class a good way to prepare for the CGC test?
Yes — it’s one of the best. The CGC evaluation requires your dog to perform reliably around other dogs and unfamiliar people, which is exactly what group classes simulate. Both Valerie and Keisha are AKC CGC Evaluators, so the prep and the test happen in the same program.
Where are group classes held?
[Location TBD — confirm with Valerie or Keisha and update here. Include whether classes rotate between public locations or are held at a fixed venue.]
How many sessions are in a group class series?
[Session count TBD — confirm with Valerie or Keisha and update here.]
What should I bring to group class?
Bring high-value treats your dog loves, a standard 4–6 foot leash, a well-fitted flat collar or harness, and a positive attitude. Leave retractable leashes, prong collars, and choke chains at home — they’re not permitted in our classes. We’ll go over everything else at the first session.
How do I sign up for a group class?
Reach out through our contact page or call us at (469) 786-7877. We’ll confirm the current class schedule, walk you through what to expect, and get you enrolled.