Beginners Obedience

BEGINNERS OBEDIENCE CLASSES – FALL 2026

START DATE:  Classes begin the week of September 14, 2026.  Enrollment opens on Monday, August 17, 2026.

AGE REQUIREMENT:  Your dog must be 24 weeks old or older for small breeds by September 14^th (born on or before March 23, 2026) OR 22 weeks old or older for large breeds (born on or before April 6, 2026).

ENROLLMENT DEADLINE:  Enrollments must be received by 5:00 pm on Wednesday, September 2, 2026.  The best way to enroll is by dropping off your enrollment paperwork and payment at TDTC in the mail slot to the left of our front door.  You may also snail mail (USPS) your enrollment paperwork keeping in mind that it may take at least 1-3 days after mailing to be delivered to TDTC.  ENROLLMENTS SUBMITTED BY E-MAIL WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.  STUDENTS REPEATING BEGINNERS WILL BE GIVEN PRIORITY.

ENROLL EARLY!!!! – Enrollments are processed in the order received.  Class sizes are strictly limited.  Students who need to repeat Beginners will be given priority.  Most classes fill in a matter of days after enrollment opens.  Preliminary enrollment will close at 5:00 pm on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, or when classes are full.

CONFIRMATIONS:  An e-mail confirmation will be sent AFTER enrollment closes if you have provided an accurate and legible e-mail address.  Please PRINT clearly.  Please be sure to check your spam or junk folders before contacting TDTC.  We will mail your confirmation ONLY if you enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope.  No phone confirmations will be made.

We teach and encourage positive training methods using treats, toys, and verbal praise as rewards. All instructors are volunteers and have earned at least one AKC Obedience Title with their dog. All instructors complete a hands-on apprenticeship program and participate in continuing education.

Please e-mail questions or inquiries to tdtc.beginners@gmail.com.

Length: 10 weeks, 1 hour per week
Age of Dog: 24 weeks old or older for small breed dogs OR 22 weeks or older for large breed dogs by the start date of class.
Age of Handler: 8 and up

Session begins with a one-hour orientation (without dogs). You will need a properly fitted collar and a six-foot leash; both are available for purchase the first week of classes with the dog for proper fitting or throughout the session. You will be evaluated on the 10th week. All dogs will graduate, receive a certificate, and are invited to attend our graduation party.

After successfully passing this course, you may continue training in a Novice I class.

You may also apply for Associate Membership after successfully completing a Beginners obedience or higher class.