SPCA Dog and Puppy Training

My pup is a SPCA alumni and since I adopted him (which will be 3 years next month) we have taken the family dog class 1 twice, we have done the one day leash class, we have been lucky enough to have a private session and are currently taking family dog class two. I can’t say enough good things about the training the SPCA offers. The trainers have truly helped me and my dog have a better quality of life.

Bailey has attended 4 different classes and the dog social with the SPCA. We travel 50 miles one way to attend these classes, and they are every bit worth it. The instructors are knowledgeable, caring and attentive. They have taught me so much about canine behavior as well as how to train my pup. I have been recommending these classes to all of my dog-​loving friends. I can’t wait to continue working with the training staff toward Bailey’s Canine Good Citizenship certification.

The SPCA training folks are wonderful. I’ve learned so much from this kind, dedicated team. They taught me techniques to gently help my dog to be the best she can be and to «set her up for success,» a philosophy that fills the learning process with joy. We began with several ways to get my girl’s attention, and from there she could learn the basics so that she would be a safe and pleasant companion. I’m sure she is as grateful as I am.
My senior deaf boy attended a unique class for hearing impaired dogs and the methods we both learned there are equally rewarding with a hearing dog… it’s pretty special to be complimented in public about how good my girl is and how well mannered, «and you don’t even have to say a word to her,» lol. I don’t think there is an issue this team will not be able to help with.
I have also seen them spot physical problems that at first seemed behavioral but were actually caused by something physical, and a trip to the vet is always advised when that might be a possibility.
A private session for a specific issue with my silly girl has also made our life in public so much more fun!
Each trainer is constantly expanding their knowledge base and is dedicated to training without force, intimidation or punishment. Thanks to all I have learned from this team, my bond with each of my dogs has deepened and theirs with me. Definitely one-​stop shopping for all your dog training needs!

Five stars for this awesome unit who helped us learn how to teach our Lab mix better behavior! Our dog is a rescue, and with that comes certain challenges. The SPCA team showed us how to get our dog’s attention in noisy or crowded situations through individual classes, out and abouts in Monterey and reactive rover 1 and 2 classes. I would highly recommend dog owners to work with Amanda, Wendi, Susi and Diane as the experiences will teach dogs better leash manners and provide opportunities to bond with our beloved pooches.

As soon as we had our ten pound terrier mix rescue dog out of her cone of shame we started her training at the SPCA Monterey County. In the last two years the trainers there have expertly guided us through basic puppy training, sniff n’ search, agility, out and about, carnival, rally obedience and canine good citizenship training classes. Every step of our journey has been fun, informative and amazingly effective. We have had the pleasure to work with trainers Amanda, Wendi, Jon and Diane to bring our dog from nothing but untapped potential to where she is now. We now can (and often do) boast that our dog can be walked anywhere without leash pulling or barking, she has a plethora of tricks under her collar that she loves to show off and she has become extremely good at and enthusiastic about running agility courses. On top of all that every Sunday the SPCA hosts a «Sunday Social», one for small dogs and another for large dogs. The dogs have the run of the agility yard which is completely covered with high quality artificial grass which is ideal for running, jumping and wrestling. Trainer Jon is on hand to insure that the dogs are socializing properly and having a great time.
There is no greater joy than having a happy well adjusted, well socialized dog. It makes for a happy dog and a happy family. We have met many wonderful dogs and owners through our classes and have come to feel as if we are more family than merely customers and students. Our experience at the SPCA has been as beneficial and enjoyable to us as much as to our dog. We cannot recommend highly enough checking out everything the SPCA has to offer in the way of training and recreation for your dog.

When I first adopted my two-​year-​old St. Bernard I really thought I would have to give her up because of her reactive behavior– but I am thrilled to say that after just a few classes with the professional trainers at the Monterey County SPCA she is doing wonderful! I would recommend the classes at the Monterey County SPCA to everybody! Because of them I am able to keep my 110lb dog!

I was extremely disappointed with the dog training class at the Carmel location. The dog trainer didn’t give my dog the one on one attention that the other two dogs that made up our class received. It was really very disrespectful and after two classes I decided not to go back. I adopted my sweet doggy from the SPCA and support their cause. I hope that they can improve this class so other people don’t share the same experience that I had. Dog training classes are not cheap, and time is precious!

The SPCA Out and About classes rock! We go to different locations on the peninsula to practice manners and walking with a group of dogs out in public — real life situations! One weekend we’re on the PG Rec Trail, the next we’re in downtown Carmel, or Del Monte Shopping Center. The classes are fun and challenging. We work on walking politely up and down stairs and Del Monte Center, and even take a trip right through Macys! There are always fun activities during class, like the ‘leave it’ exercises. Even if you repeat the Out and About class — it’s always a little different because you have a different mix of dogs each session. I highly recommend this class.