(860) 213-0260
(860) 213-0260

Group Classes

We offer classes to fit every training need while building a community of support among the best-informed puppy parents in Connecticut. In addition, our group classes are perfect for puppies, new owners, and dogs who need socialization.
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More About Our Group & Speciality Classes

Welcome to Rhodes Collar! Whether you have a playful pup or a seasoned canine, our group classes are designed to cater to all your training needs at our highly competitive rates.  Puppy classes are ideal for young dogs to socialize and learn basic obedience in a fun, safe, and supportive environment.  Our Intermediate class reinforces basic commands and introduces more complex skills.  We continuously offer these throughout the year so all dogs may benefit from the most evidence-based ethical training in Connecticut. 

AKC-sponsored courses such as CGC, URBAN, and RALLY, classes for those aiming to compete in American Kennel Club events (or just for fun), offer the training and skills needed to excel. We also offer Agility, Scent/Nose Work, Heeling, and Positive Only! (Note: the admissions consultation is currently not required for the AKC classes with Terri)

All group classes are held at The Hounds, 769 Stonington Rd., Stonington, CT

Please be advised that all sessions are non-refundable. We recommend planning accordingly, especially if your dog is in or about to go into heat, as this can affect participation. Our sessions are structured as a six-week program. We appreciate your understanding.

Scent Work (all levels)

Monday, January 5th, @1:45

Discover the hidden talents of your dog with our popular scent work class led by the expert Terri Marinier!

This comprehensive course will cover beginner to advanced techniques and strategies to enhance your dog’s natural scenting abilities. Whether you aim to compete or improve your training skills, this class offers detailed instruction and practical exercises to help you and your dog excel.

Classes fill up quickly, so don’t miss the chance to embark on this exciting adventure with your dog. Sign up now and watch your dog’s nose lead the way!

Instructor / Terri Marinier; AKC Scent Work/UKC Nose Work Judge.

Rally Obedience (all levels)

Monday, January 5th @3:00 PM

Rally is a perfect starting point for those new to canine sports. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/get-started-in-dog-sports-and-events/ Rally obedience is a sport where the dog and handler navigate a numbered course.  Depending on the level, there can be anywhere from 12 to 24 stations.  Each station consists of a pace change and a stationary skill, such as a sit, a stand, or a down. This class introduces you to the sport of rally and the skills needed to succeed! Even if you aren’t interested in competition, it is an excellent class to perfect basic obedience and heeling skills.

Prerequisites – Basic Obedience or instructor approval.

Instructor, Terri Marinier

Puppy Kindergarten

Saturday, January 17th @9:00

Give your puppy a bright and confident start by enrolling in our six-week Puppy Manners class! In this course, we will cover essential skills, including:

– Using lures
– Place
– Sit
– Down
– Stay
– Puppy push-ups
– Stand
– Loose-leash walking
– Friendly greetings

This class is designed for puppies aged 3-6 months who have received their first vaccinations.

Instructor: Michele Longo
Duration: Six consecutive weeks
Prerequisite: Admissions Consultation required

Please note that all class sessions are non-refundable.

Basic Manners

Saturday, January 17th @10:15

Elevate your pup’s skills in this engaging class, which builds on the foundations established during Puppy Kindergarten. Together, you and your dog will master essential commands, including recalls, extended sit-stays, down-stays, enhanced heeling, and improved focus. This class is ideal for passionate dog owners eager to unlock greater freedom for both them and their canine companions.

All dogs must be up to date on their vaccinations to ensure a safe and healthy environment. If you didn’t participate in our Puppy Kindergarten, please arrange for an admissions consultation or obtain the instructor’s approval before joining us.

Instructor: Michele Longo

Canine Good Citizen

Saturday, January 17th @11:30

The AKC’s Canine Good Citizen program is our community’s gold standard for dog behavior. Since its beginning in 1989, almost one million purebred and mixed-breed dogs have participated in the program.

Canine Good Citizen is part of the AKC Family Dog Program, and many dog owners choose CGC as their first step in training their dogs. It also provides an excellent foundation for getting started in dog sports.

You’ll discover the many benefits and joys of training. You’ll enhance your bond with your dog, and dogs with basic obedience training are a joy to live with—interacting well with other people and dogs and responding well to household routines.

The CGC award is a prerequisite for many therapy dog groups. Some homeowner’s insurance companies encourage CGC testing, and an increasing number of apartments and condos require that resident dogs pass the CGC test. The CGC program’s tagline is “Responsible Owners, Well-Mannered Dogs,” which is what CGC is all about.

Instructor – Michele Longo

Certification Prep Class

Coming in January 2026

This popular class prepares the dog and parent team for certification processes, including CGC, Community Citizen, and Therapy Dog.

Classes will focus on practicing the requirements for each of these tests. Additionally, we will assist in navigating through the selected organization with which they will work, outlining the steps to follow. The first class will be held at Rhodes Collar, where we will introduce the dogs to various experiences they may encounter during their training. Sessions will run for six weeks.

https://www.akc.org/sports/title-recognition-program/therapy-dog-program/therapy-dog-organizations/

 

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