Our Training Philosophy
At Oregon Humane Society, our trainers focus on building a strong, healthy bond between pets and people through scientifically-based positive reinforcement methods. We do not use fear or intimidation-based tactics, and believe that reward-based techniques and education behavior is the best way to promote a trusting and respectful relationship.
For this reason, we ask that dogs do not wear prong collars, choke chains, or electronic collars to our classes. We also ask that dogs are on a regular, 6-foot leash—no flexi leashes, please. If you are currently using any of these, our trainers are always happy to suggest alternatives.
What to Expect
Signing Up for Classes
Our certified trainers want to ensure that you and your pet get the training help that you need. Not all classes are suited for every dog. If your dog barks and lunges at other dogs or has bitten anyone, please contact us to help determine the right class for you.
Registration fees are per pet. We use Mindbody for our scheduling software, which works best with Chrome. When you sign up for your first class, you will be asked to set up an account with Mindbody, using a login and password that is unique to you. Already signed up for a class? Access your training schedule here.
Attending Classes
- Classes are held at our Portland campus in the Animal Medical Learning Center and at our Salem campus in Canine Classroom. Get directions here.
- Attendance is limited to two people per pet.
- Bring your dog on a collar or harness and a 4-6 ft leash.
- Bring medium-high value treats cut into small pieces (like liver, cheese, chicken, or jerky).
- Bring a treat pouch, fanny pack, or apron to stash your treats during training to keep your hands free.
- Bring something on which your dog can lay down (like a towel, dog bed, or old yoga mat).
- Optional: Bring a water bottle and a chew toy for your dog to settle with between exercises (no squeaky toys, please).
Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Classes
Classes for Dogs Pursuing Certification
These in-person classes are designed for dogs, age one year and older, working to obtain Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification. Prior to enrollment, positive reinforcement training experience in a group class setting as well as completion of Clever Canine or Smart Games classes, or all four Levels or Tiers classes is required. Owners must be familiar with marker training and be able to recognize their dog’s calming signals. Contact us to help determine if this is the right class for you.
This class is seasonal. If you are interested in attending this class but do not see it available, please submit a request.
This advanced class is for graduates of our Clever Canine or Levels classes.
In this Canine Good Citizen (CGC) preparation course, we cover exercises to prepare you and your dog for the CGC test. You will learn how to help your dog be successful with the ten elements of the test, such as: greeting strangers politely, basic loose leash walking, stay, and calmly passing another dog.
The last week of the class is devoted to the CGC test itself.
This class is seasonal. If you are interested in attending this class but do not see it available, please submit a request.
Class Location
Oregon Humane Society Portland Campus
Animal Medical Learning Center
1067 NE Columbia Blvd., Portland, OR 97211
This advanced class is for graduates of our Smart Games or Tiers classes.
In this Canine Good Citizen (CGC) preparation course, we cover exercises to prepare you and your dog for the CGC test. You will learn how to help your dog be successful with the ten elements of the test, such as: greeting strangers politely, basic loose leash walking, stay, and calmly passing another dog.
The last week of the class is devoted to the CGC test itself.
This class is seasonal. If you are interested in attending this class but do not see it available, please submit a request.
Class Location
Oregon Humane Society Salem Campus
Canine Classroom
4246 Turner Rd. SE, Salem, OR 97317
More Training Help
Have questions about our training facilities or classes? Need more help for your pet? Check out our frequently-asked questions, use our interactive resource tool, sign up for a training class, or book a private training to find solutions.
Contact Us
Training & Behavior
(503) 802-6729
Free Pet Behavior Helpline: (503) 416-2983
