Force Free
Reinforcement based training using first principles and science for ethical results that last
Science-Backed
Expert curriculum developed by a PhD and certified trainers with 15+ years of experience
Flexible
No rigid schedules. Join any class, whenever works for you and your dog with our unique start anytime model and no rigid weekly comittments
Badge Program
Our take on Advanced Training! We believe in rewards for people too with $5 credits for each Advanced Badge earned
Puppy Programs
Flexible puppy training for dogs 8–16 weeks old in. Socialization, confidence building and FREE Saturday Puppy Play all in a sanitized, vaccination-verified environment supervised by highly qualified instructors.
Key Skills - Basic Obedience
Essential life skills for every dog. Learn how to train and get all your basics down including sit, stay, down, reinforcement strategies, settling, manners and basic obedience. Start anytime.
Advanced Badge Classes
Flexibility & Expertise. Achieve advanced skills with your dog: scentwork, heelwork, obedience, public manners, pre-agility, competition prep & more. Plus earn a $5 reward credit for every skill mastered across 60+ badges!
Our Training Services
Private Lessons
One-on-one sessions personalized to your dog's specific needs. Available in-studio or online for reactive, anxious or complex cases. Get expert guidance in our safe, clean studio
Behaviour Consults
For complex cases requiring real expertise. We work with reactivity, separation anxiety, aggression and complex behaviour. Complete with a comprehensive written report for your care team and a plan that goes beyond a basic training session.
Professional Services
Trainer-to-trainer mentorship, corporate speaking and dog-friendly workplace programs from Vancouver's most credentialed force-free training team.
What Our Clients Say
★★★★★ Rating on Google
★★★★★
"We are so grateful to have met Sarah and Katrina in our training journey with our dog. Our dog has many behavioural sensitivities, and we have received so much support through individual training and group classes. In class Sarah and Katrina break down the training goals into manageable steps and provide the context to help you understand how it all fits into the bigger picture of dog brain science. Truly so appreciative for their care, patience, and attention - to the pups and humans alike!"
-Natasha Z
★★★★★
"My partner and I just took our puppy, Joey, to puppy playtime and we were absolutely blown away! We were a little unsure of what to expect, but the entire session was incredibly well-run. There were plenty of staff members on hand who were all clearly knowledgeable and professional.
I LOVED that they incorporated a training game in the middle of the session that was accessible, age-appropriate, and easy to follow. This also had an added bonus of giving the puppies a small break from each other.
Both Sarah and Katrina are very positive, encouraging trainers who coach effectively. Very hard to find that combination!
We were impressed by how quickly the team spotted when puppies shifted from "having fun" to feeling overwhelmed. Their ability to read body language and redirect behavior immediately made us feel at ease.
We loved learning more about puppy behavior ourselves while watching our puppy interact. We’ve already booked our next five sessions and couldn’t be more excited for our training journey here. 10/10 experience. So happy we found The Dog School!"
-Sarah M
★★★★★
"The dog school has been a game changer for my giant breed puppy! Sarah and Katrina run small classes that allows each puppy to get the attention and consideration it needs. They’ve also been so helpful for troubleshooting between classes as we bring the training home. At first I didn’t know if it was worth the commute across town for us, but It’s been incredible to watch the positive change in my puppy over a few short weeks since we’ve been attending. Cannot recommend this space enough!"
-Zoe M
As Seen In: People Magazine | New York Post | The Tonight Show | CBC |
Our Class Schedule
Wondering how our flexible scheduling works?
Classes run Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday
Private lessons and behaviour consults are available Monday-Friday
Mondays - Private Lessons & Free Office Hours
Tuesdays - Key Skills | Badge Classes | Small Dog Social | Private Lessons | Group Classes from 5:30
Wednesdays - Puppy Program | Key Skills | Private Lessons
Fridays - Key Skills | Badge Class | Private Lessons
Saturdays - FREE Puppy Play | Puppy Program | Key Skills (2) | Badge Program
For a full schedule and to sign up, see our BOOK NOW page.
Signing Up is as Easy as ABC
A
REGISTER YOUR DOG
Create your free BusyPaws account and tell us about your dog.
Takes 2 minutes.
B
BROWSE & BOOK
Check your Email to access your portal, browse our live class calendar and book whatever works for you and your dog
C
START LEARNING
Show up, have fun and watch your dog thrive.
Start Anytime and enjoy The Dog School's community
Welcome to The Dog School, Vancouver!
From Our Blog
