Pet Training Classes
San Diego Humane Society offers a variety of tools to help support your pet behavior questions and training needs.
Our training classes for dogs and cats of all ages range from the basics to unique specialty courses to address all your training needs. With more than 40 different class options, we have something for every pet!
We are currently offering a limited number of in-person classes. Class sizes are limited and classes offered vary by campus. Classes are also offered online via Zoom. Anyone is welcome to join our virtual classes, whether you’re a member of our local community or joining us from afar!
Looking for additional Behavior & Training resources? Visit our information hub!
Resources for Pets and Children
Did you know we have certified Family Paws Parent Educators on our training team? To set your pets and kids up for success, we've compiled a number of helpful resources for families with young children and also offer a monthly virtual Dogs & Storks class through Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for expectant parents. And for parents with young children, we offer a monthly virtual Dogs & Toddlers class through San Diego Humane Society.
Training Classes
Health
Dogs must be current on their rabies, DHPP (or equivalent) vaccines and be in good general health. Fees paid for dogs excused from class due to a medical concern that are unable to return to class will not be refunded.
Behavior
San Diego Humane Society group classes are not meant to address serious aggression or behavior issues. Dogs exhibiting these behaviors will be asked to leave and no refund will be issued. If your animal is displaying behaviors that may cause concern, please schedule a private training by calling 619-279-5961.
Prerequisite Classes/Training
Some classes have prerequisites or items that must be completed prior to enrollment. Please read the description of each class to ensure you and your dog are ready to attend. If you enroll in a class and it is determined that your dog does not meet the prerequisites for participation, you will be excused from the class without a refund.
Registration & Payment
Classes fill quickly. You may register online. Payment must be made in full at the time of registration, no exceptions. Please call 619-279-5961 if you need additional information about class availability.
Adopters Discount
Please call 619-279-5961 prior to enrolling online.
Attendance
In deference to other students, those who arrive 10 minutes late to class will not be admitted and will be marked as absent. No class make ups will be given for students who are tardy.
Refund Policy
- Classes must be paid for in full at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled start date, including online registrations and manual registrations.
- If space is still available, class registrations will be accepted until the start of the scheduled class.
- Refunds and cancellations are offered until 72 hours prior to the class’ scheduled start date.
- Students must request a cancellation no later than 72 hours prior to the scheduled class start date to receive a refund.
- Refunds will be processed within one week of student's request for refund/cancellation.
- No drop-ins, class transfers, or pro-rated class fees.
Class Cancellations, Rescheduling & Holidays
Most classes run weekly for six weeks - view specific class descriptions for more information. Classes can be cancelled and/or postponed with no notice. We will do our best to alert you if classes are cancelled or rescheduled, so you may adjust your schedule accordingly. You will receive the full number of sessions, but the class end date may be later than anticipated.
Below is the current list of days in which classes are not held. This is only a preliminary list of dark days; individual classes can be cancelled and anytime without notice and the end date adjusted accordingly. This is usually due to weather. Refunds are not given if you are unable to attend any scheduled classes.
- Easter Day + the day before
- Memorial Day
- 4th of July
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day + the days immediately before and after
- Christmas Eve
- Christmas Day
- New Year’s Eve
- New Year’s Day
In-Person: Designed for social pets who are comfortable and able to focus around other people and pets. Classes may be offered at our San Diego, Escondido or Oceanside campuses. Class availability varies by location. Please check the location carefully before enrolling, as space is limited.
Online (via Zoom): These classes are appropriate for ALL pets! Low-distraction learning environments like your home are often the most effective. They’re especially critical for pets experiencing high arousal (stress, high excitability, fear, shyness, reactivity, etc.). Some classes are only offered in online formats for this reason, and students consistently share stories of excellent progress with behavior challenges. Most classes are recorded live each week so you can review the material.
Online (on-demand): These classes are appropriate for ALL pets and are designed for maximum schedule flexibility. Enroll in the next upcoming session, but start anytime that is convenient for you! Trainers hold a weekly live Q&A session over Zoom (also recorded for flexibility). The posted start date is just a suggestion! After registering, your confirmation email will provide instructions for starting your on-demand classes anytime!
Find a Dog or Cat Group Training Class
Click the class title for a pop-up description.
Give the Gift of Training
Purchase a training class gift card for a loved one here! Gifts can be fixed amounts or customized.
Upcoming Lectures
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