Train Together. Grow Together

No. Everyone is welcome! You do not need to be an NYOC member to register for our training classes. Simply browse our class descriptions and choose the one that best matches your dog's age, experience, and your training goals. If you're unsure where to start, contact our training secretary.

Not at all.

Most of our students simply want a well-mannered, enjoyable family companion. While NYOC proudly hosts Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) Obedience and Rally Trials, the skills taught in our classes are just as valuable in everyday life. Better focus, reliable recalls, loose-leash walking, and calm behaviour around distractions all make life with your dog more enjoyable.

If competition interests you, we'll help you get there. If not, you'll still benefit from the same solid foundation and positive training methods.

If your puppy is between 8  weeks and 6 months of age, Puppy Kindergarten is the ideal place to begin.

Most dogs and handlers who are new to formal training will benefit from starting with Puppy Kindergarten or First Steps in Dog Training, even if their dog already knows a few basic cues. Dogs learn in context, and working in a group class with unfamiliar dogs, people, and distractions is very different from training at home.

If you and your dog have trained elsewhere or have previous experience, we'd be happy to help you choose the most appropriate class. Simply contact our Training Secretary before registering.

Occasionally, after the first class, an instructor may recommend moving you to a different level to ensure both you and your dog have the best learning experience.

NYOC uses modern, reward-based training methods supported by current research into how dogs learn.

We focus on teaching dogs what to do, rather than punishing them for making mistakes. Desired behaviours are reinforced with rewards such as food, toys, praise, and play, making learning enjoyable for both dogs and handlers.

We do not permit training methods or equipment that cause pain or intimidation. Research has shown that punishment-based training can damage the relationship between dog and handler and may actually interfere with learning.

Our instructors will show you how to communicate clearly with your dog, reward the behaviours you want, and redirect unwanted behaviours in a positive, effective way. The result is a dog that is confident, eager to learn, and enjoys working with you.

Once you have registered, about a week before classes start, you will receive an email confirming all the details for your first night, including what to bring which will vary somewhat from one class to another.

In most cases, no!

Puppies can begin learning at a surprisingly young age. Our Puppy Kindergarten welcomes puppies from 8 weeks of age, giving them an excellent start during this important stage of development.

Older dogs can learn too. While they may need a little more time and repetition, dogs of almost any age are capable of learning new skills. Whether you've adopted an adult dog or simply want to brush up on training, positive reinforcement is an effective and enjoyable way to teach at every stage of life.

As we like to say: it's never too early—or too late—to start training.

Many dogs are unsure around unfamiliar people, dogs, or new environments, and our instructors are experienced in helping them build confidence at their own pace.

We use gradual, positive training techniques that help dogs feel safe and successful. We do not use flooding or other methods that overwhelm or frighten dogs.

If your dog is shy, fearful, or reactive, please let us know before classes begin. This allows us to make appropriate arrangements and help create the best possible experience for everyone.

Our group classes are not designed to treat dogs with severe aggression or those that present a significant safety risk. If we believe a dog would be better served through private behaviour modification, we'll discuss this with you, recommend appropriate resources, and provide a partial refund in accordance with our policies.

The primary objective of Therapy Dogs is to bring smiles and a sense of well-being to everyone they visit. To do this, your dog must be safe, friendly and well trained.

NYOC Dog Training has two basic classes, First Steps and Second Steps, that will give you a start on this. You might also consider working with the NYOC K-9 Demonstration Team.  The Demonstration Team visits senior’s residences, long term care homes, libraries, Girl Guide and Boy Scout groups.  Although the dogs on the team do not have to be certified therapy dogs, they do have to have similar skills. Check out what it takes to join the Demonstration Team.

There are two organizations in Ontario that certify Therapy Dogs.  Look at the criteria for both people and dogs.

St. John Ambulance Therapy Dogs Canada

Therapeutic Paws of Canada

If your dog has a chronic health condition e.g., epilepsy, deafness, be sure to include this information on the registration form.
If your dog is sick, please don’t bring him/her to class. If you are unsure, check with your veterinarian and let your instructor know. We encourage you to come to the class and observe so that you will know what to practise with your dog at home when s/he is well.

You will be surprised at how much you and your dog can accomplish after successfully completing our First and Second Steps classes. Of course, this will require a commitment on your part to practice daily what you are learning at class. Multiple short sessions a day is far more effective than one longer training session at home.  Simply showing up once a week without practicing will not get you the results you desire, nor is it fair to your dog.

Attending all of the classes in a session does not mean you should automatically move your dog into the next higher class! Dogs and handlers benefit immensely from repeating a session. The second or third time through a class, you and your dog get so much more out of it! Not only can you both be stars but you will understand what you are doing, why you are doing it and how you can continue to make progress!

Even when you “graduate”, it is just the beginning of your dog’s life-long learning. You will need to continue to provide gentle guidance and positive reinforcement for behaviours you want your dog to do.  And if you really love dog training, there are all kinds of dog sports to explore!