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Group Training differs from a Group Class. It is more productive for both dogs and owners. In a group “class” typically, there is one goal and a specific curriculum to meet that goal. Every dog and student are working towards that goal. If you advance faster or you need more time on a specific part, you are out of luck. You must stay with the pace of the whole class. Also in a class, all dogs are out training at the same time which can eliminate dogs with dog-dog issues from being able to attend. It can cause burn out in both the dogs and owners having to manage their attention for an hour straight. 

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In this setting, dogs get more breaks and because everyone is in a different place in their training journey, you get to absorb and learn more even when you don’t have a dog out. You can see people who are a few steps ahead of you and know what to anticipate with your own dog. You can listen to the advice I give someone who might be dealing with something you are as well and have a little aha moment on the sidelines. The social aspect of the group keeps you motivated to continue and prevents burn out and boredom.

Each dog also comes out one at a time, unless working around dogs is important for them. When it is not their turn they are kenneled in their owner’s car. This means each session is customized specifically to you and your dog's needs.

Each student/dog gets three turns. These turns are short and sweet to make sure only the most important information lands. Taking breaks in between means the dogs don’t get overstimulated or overworked. It’s the perfect environment for learning.

The atmosphere isn’t stuffy and rigid like a class. In between turns you get to socialize with other students. We usually have snacks too. Everyone who attends, is dedicated and enthusiastic about training but no one has a bad attitude. The people I choose for group training are supportive and kind. It’s very important to me that everyone feels comfortable when they are training with me, and group training especially is a judgement free zone. “Come as you are” is my motto. 

Many of my students become close friends. With me and with each other. Some of the more experienced students have invited the novices to join them in other activities outside of group training and I’m enjoying watching these little side groups forming. Two of my novice students just earned their first titles with their dogs this past weekend because other students introduced them to the sport Barn Hunt. The community I create is just as important to me as the training we accomplish while you’re here. This is why we joke that we are a cult. Our support for each other extends outside of the training days. 

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It costs $45/dog to come to group training. 
We meet on my beautiful private property in Harris, MN. As weather permits, we'll be outside. Indoor space is available for less than ideal conditions. Consider this a little getaway for yourself and your dogs. We meet on Thursday evenings at or around 5pm, Friday mornings at 10am and Sunday mornings at 9am. We are usually there for at least 3 hours but sometimes more. I can usually get people out early if I need to, but I think you get the best experience if you stay and watch everyone. 

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