Our training philosophy is focused on science-based, positive reinforcement instruction. We offer clients several different ways to work with their dogs — all of which involve a gentle, kind and fair technique that fosters the human-animal bond. We encourage students to use a  “marker” of some kind, either a clicker or verbal marker but what is most important is to find  a humane method that works for both the dog and human. We do not use punishment, coercion or  leash “corrections” and proud and electronic collars are not used with our training methods. It is important to us to help our clients understand how their dog thinks and learns so they can have a conflict free, mutually beneficial relationship.

All of our group training classes are limited in size so you are guaranteed individual attention. We also offer private dog training sessions for those who need a flexible schedule and one-on-one time with a trainer. Classes are 60 minutes unless otherwise noted.

We offer training at both our Burien and Ballard locations. See schedules for class dates and times.

THE BASICS: Our core 6-week basic training class for non-reactive dogs 5 months and older. The first week is lecture only, no dogs and held virtually (you will be emailed a zoom link prior to the start date). The remaining 5 weeks will be held in-person (part of the Ballard classes take place outside).

The Basics uses reward based, positive reinforcement only; no leash “corrections” are used. This class covers canine thought and communication, management as well as ways to curb irritating habits such as jumping up, counter-surfing, begging and pulling on-leash. You will learn how to teach you dog practical cues such as attention, sit, down, wait, come, touch, leave-it and go to your mat/place. You will also learn good ways to fulfill your dogs needs, the best ways to play with your dog and what behaviors to look for when your dog is playing with other dogs. Learn how, by using positive reinforcement, you can prevent undesirable behaviors and gain desirable ones.  First week is virtual. INSTRUCTORS: Danette Johnston, CPDT-KA, CFFP, FDM and Cyn Howell, CPDT-KA, CSS, FDM

ALSO CHECK OUT LOTS MORE ON OUR: SPECIALITY CLASSES PAGE

AND FOR DOGS 8 WEEKS – 2 YEARS OF AGE:  PUPPY & TEENS PROGRAMS

BEYOND THE BASICS/TRICKS!: 5 week course for graduates of The Basics, Teens & Tweens Jumpstart or Training Games for Focus & Fun  10 months and older.
This intermediate level class has a little bit of everything! You will continue your work from The Basics by playing games and doing activities that incorporate distractions, proofing and chaining behaviors. We will also start Trick training and will learn & practice tricks needed for passing the AKC’s Tricks Title test. Tricks title testing is offered on the last week of class if the student desires (price included in the class fee). We will also work on skills and cues for low-stress handling and grooming (the dreaded toe nail trims).

Prerequisite: One of the following classes at DDO: The Basics, Teens & Tweens Jumpstart, Training Games for Focus & Fun OR  prior instructor approval (video evaluation may be required $25). Student should have a base understanding of the following skills in a space with other dogs present: Focus, Touch, Sit, Down, Leave It, Go to Mat/Place, Stay/Wait (short distance), Recall (short distance), Loose Leash Walking and handler using a clicker or other marker (verbal ok). No prong collars or leash corrections used.
INSTRUCTOR: Danette Johnston, CPDT-KA, Certified Fear Free Trainer, Certified Family Dog Mediator, AKC CGC and Tricks evaluator.

Tricks TestingYour dog can take the AKC’s Tricks Test at Dog’s Day Out on the last week of Beyond Basics. We are not currently doing any private testing. For more info on the Tricks Title test go to www.akc.org .

CANINE GOOD CITIZEN CLASS:5 week course for dogs 10 months and older (1 year recommended)
This intermediate level class specifically covers the skills to pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen test that will be offered on the last week of class. This is a great prep class for taking your dog to public spaces like cafes, therapy or service dog work.
Prerequisite: One of the following classes at DDO: The Basics, Teens & Tweens Jumpstart , Training Games  OR prior instructor approval (video evaluation may be required $25). Student should have a base understanding of the following skills in a space with other dogs present: Focus, Touch, Sit, Down, Leave It, Go to Mat/Place, Stay/Wait (short distance), Recall (short distance), Loose Leash Walking and handler using a clicker or other marker (verbal ok). No prong collars or leash corrections used. Email: Info@dogsdayoutseattle.com for approval.
INSTRUCTOR: Sugako Sasaki CPDT-KA, IAABC-ADT, CGC Evaluator, Certified Service Dog Trainer-Atlas Assistance Dogs.

How do I sign up? For Basics see listing on this page. For Beyond Basics and CGC see SPECIALITY CLASSES PAGE for registration links.

ALL VIRTUAL BASICS! 6-week basic training course for dogs 4 months and older.
ALL VIRTUAL Basics class! This class covers the entire in-person Basics curriculum. The virtual version will consist of lecture, demos, video supplementation and live training times where you will be working with your dog as the instructor coaches you live. INSTRUCTOR: Danette Johnston, CPDT-KA

This class is perfect for:

  • Shy dogs or those who may be nervous in new environments
  • Reactive in a group class but you still really want to work on basic skills.
  • Folks who don’t live in Seattle but want to join our classes.
  • Those stuck between classes (pups can take this Basics at 4 months) or all in-person classes are full but you want to get started!

Please check our SCHEDULE for current listings of all of our classes offered this season.