Photo Credit: Bliss Hill Photography
Group Classes: A Path to Partnership
CHQDogs offers a range of group classes designed to build a strong foundation of skills and strengthen the bond between a person and their dog. These classes provide a structured and supportive environment for learning and growth, with many leading to official titles recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Begins Monday November 16th in Bemus Point:
S.T.A.R. Stands for Socialization, Training, Activity and a Responsible owner. We'll teach puppies to enjoy handling, sit, down, leash walking, polite toy play, and guide guardians on responsible pet ownership.
Fully vaccinated puppies under 1 year may enroll. Must be trained to potty outside (our class space is carpeted - private training available). Grrraduates that receive a passing grade on all evaluation items qualify for the American Kennel Club's official "S.T.A.R. Puppy" title.
Beyond CGC - Therapy Dog
November 9th, 2026
Transitioning from a Canine Good Citizen to an active Therapy Dog requires refining foundational skills to handle complex environment changes.
This 75-minute intensive class breaks down the key differences between standard CGC evaluation criteria and the specific expectations of Therapy Dogs United.
What We Will Cover:
Advanced "Leave It" under high distraction
Group / crowded petting scenarios
Extended duration "Sit" and "Down" stays
Desensitization and confidence building around wheelchairs, walkers, and canes
This targeted session gives you a clear preview of Therapy Dog expectations while pinpointing the exact skills to polish before your team's evaluation.
Virtual Home Manners Doggie School:
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A go-at-your own pace class page, evaluation scheduled when you're ready.
Begins Friday November 20th in Mayville:
TRICKS AT SIX!
Trick Dog: Discover your dog's inner performer! This class is a fantastic way to bond and build confidence through fun and creative exercises. Learn a variety of tricks that can lead to official AKC Trick Dog titles, from Novice to Performer. This is considered a Level 2 class. Please consider taking Doggie Manners One (see above) prior to enrolling in Tricks.
DOGGIE MANNERS ONE: Your dog may be able to sit on cue, but can they sit AND pay attention to you when other dogs are around?! Get started with the basics including enrichment, communication and building skills through positive reinforcement. This is a great course for beginners and opens the doors to advanced training. We meet for a total of 6 weeks. The first class is for human students ONLY and canines join us weeks 2-6.
Too Busy to commit to a full 6 week course? Prior graduates and approved private clients can enroll in a "drop in" Monday Manners spot to polish some of those Manners learned previously. Click "Manners Maintenance" to see availability.
See you next year!
DWYD®: The "Drink with Your Dog Project®" features a fun curriculum developed by Summit Dog Training in Colorado. It is a fantastic Level II class for dogs and handlers ready practice their manners in public. Non-drinkers and beer enthusiasts love this class so much, many drop in via "Guest Spots for Graduates" (renews Spring 2027).
Nosework & Recall for All: Co-instructed by Certified Nosework Instructor Gina Baker we'll unleash a dog's incredible sense of smell in this fun and engaging activity. This class teaches the basics of scent detection, transforming a dog's natural sniffing behavior into a rewarding game. It's a great mental workout for dogs of all ages and a wonderful way to build focus and drive.
Between Search turns, students will practice an Emergency Recall (coming when called) cue instructed by Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Carly Davis.
Canine Good Citizen Course
Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Prep: Prepare for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test. This class focuses on advanced manners and confidence-building, ensuring a dog can demonstrate excellent behavior in a variety of public settings. Passing the CGC test is a prerequisite for many therapy dog programs and is a gateway to other AKC titles. This round will include 4 Practice Classes and Evaluation week 5.