Pet Training & Resources
We’re here to help pet families! By working together, we can set your pets up for success — and get ahead of behavior challenges before they become a problem.
Training Offerings
San Diego Humane Society offers a variety of tools to help support your pet behavior questions and training needs.
We offer in-person and online classes, lectures, events and training consultations, all giving the community direct access to our professional trainers. These vital resources are an important way we help ensure pets can stay where they belong — with the people who love them.
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 a wide variety of class options, we have something for every pet!
Dog or Cat Group Training Classes
With over 35 different classes, we've got something for everyone! With in-person classes at several of our campuses and online options for every pet everywhere, we have a format that will fit your needs.
Pet Training Assistance: Do you need help paying for training? Can you assist someone struggling to pay for training? Learn more about our Pet Training Assistance Fund.
Private Training
If you're looking for one-on-one support with your dog or cat's behavior, you can schedule either an in-person (dogs only) session at our San Diego Campus, or an online session (dogs or cats) with one of our expert trainers. Our trainers will refer out to trusted experts for cases of aggression directed towards humans, resource guarding and separation anxiety.
Post Adoption Consults
All San Diego Humane Society adopters receive a 1-hour virtual or phone consultation with a trainer to discuss and troubleshoot any behavioral concerns with your new pet.
Dog and Cat Trainer Directory
Check out our directory of qualified positive reinforcement (R+) trainers in San Diego.
Get the Scoop!
Wanna stay in the training loop? Sign up to receive our Scoop newsletters, including our monthly Training Scoop! Each one features training tips, upcoming classes and events, and other behavior and training resources.
Behavior & Training Articles
Explore our extensive article library that address many of the most common questions we receive and challenges pet owners face.
Cats and Kittens
From scratching and litter box challenges to kitten socialization and enrichment, our cat behavior resources are designed to help you understand and support your feline companion. Explore practical, cat-friendly training tips and expert guidance to address common behaviors and build a happier home for you and your cat.
Dogs and Puppies
Whether you’re welcoming a new puppy or working through challenges like potty training, chewing or separation anxiety, our free behavior resources provide detailed information to support dogs and puppies at every stage of life. Each article is designed to help you better understand your dog’s behavior and build trust and confidence.
All Behavior Resources
Our full library of behavior and training resources offers expert advice on common behavior concerns, enrichment ideas and foundational training. Browse articles designed to help animals thrive — and give pet families the tools they need to feel confident along the way. Each one provides clear, practical guidance you can trust.
Resources for Pets and Children
To set your pets and kids up for success, we've compiled a number of helpful resources for families with young children.
Dogs & Storks Class
Preparing for life with a dog and baby.
Dogs & Toddlers Class
Virtual class for families with young children.
Pets & Children Resources
Handouts, videos and activity sheets.
Behavior & Training Videos
Our Behavior & Training YouTube playlists are here to help you better understand your pet and build a stronger, more positive relationship. From foundations and body language to leash skills, grooming, enrichment and more, these videos are designed to give you practical tips you can start using right away. Explore our full range of video resources below: