The Training Club
Group Classes give you the opportunity to strengthen reliability
Group classes are designed to give you real, hands-on experience working with your dog in more dynamic environments—so you leave not only with progress, but with the skills, confidence, and understanding to handle your dog around real-life distractions.
Guided by Chantel Hoffman
How Group Classes Work
These sessions are designed to strengthen your handling skills through real-time coaching, guidance, and application.
Locations
Locations will vary between real-world settings, including downtown Sylvan Lake, Red Deer, pet-friendly stores, and other busy environments. This variety is intentional, giving you and your dog the opportunity to work through distractions, put your training into practice, and build the ability to stay connected and work together no matter what’s happening around you.
Class Focus + Goals
These classes focus on structured socialization, building value in you as the handler, and teaching your dog to look to you for guidance rather than becoming consumed by everything happening around them. Through working around other dogs, people, and changing environments, you'll learn how to maintain engagement, communicate clearly, and guide your dog through distractions. The goal isn't simply to have your dog exposed to the world, but to teach them how to navigate it while remaining connected to you, responding to your direction, and making better choices even when the environment becomes more challenging.
What To Bring
Please check the weather and dress accordingly. If weather conditions require a reschedule, no stress! Your payment will be transferred to the next group class you're able to attend.
Bring the training tools your trainer has recommended, which may include high-value treats, a treat pouch, long line or flexi/retractable leash, short street leash, flat collar, slip collar, prong collar, or a training collar your dog is already familiar with.
Bring your family! Pricing is per dog, and family members, including children, are welcome. Please ensure children respect the dogs' space and always ask the handler for permission before approaching or touching any dog, during or after class.
Recommendation
It’s important to note that it is recommended your dog has completed at least one private session if they are not leash trained. This helps create a smoother, more structured environment for everyone involved.Â
Requirements
Up-to-date vaccinations and a completed evaluation with Chantel are required for all group class registrations.
Start your training journey today.
If you have never worked with Upshot Kennels before, please contact your trainer before booking to ensure you and your dog are ready for the group class setting. It’s important to understand that group classes are not for dogs to play together. These sessions are focused on exposure training and handler engagement. We ask that all dogs remain respectful of each other’s space so everyone can get the most out of the class. If you’d like your dog to interact or play with another dog, that can happen after the class has ended, once training is complete. During class, you’ll be actively participating. You won’t just watch... you’ll do.
