FAQ

  • What dog training classes do you offer?

    We offer a variety of dog training classes, including Obedience, Rally, Scent Work (nose work), Conformation and specialty classes.

    Please visit our Classes page to view current offerings, class levels, and registration details.

    Classes serve teams from San Jose, Santa Clara, and surrounding Silicon Valley communities.

  • When & where does the next dog training session start?

    Training session start dates, registration dates, and club events are posted on the Events‍‍ ‍section of our Welcome page.

    We have two San Jose dog training locations: Winter/Spring classes at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds and Summer/Fall at the Silicon Valley Adult Education Campus. The location will be noted on the Events section.

  • How long are dog training sessions and classes?

    Dog training sessions at Santa Clara Dog Training Club run for seven weeks, with each class lasting 50 minutes.

    A shorter session may be offered at the end of the year due to holidays.

  • When are dog training classes held?

    Dog training classes are currently held on Tuesdays.

    Session start dates, class schedules and registration dates are listed on the Events section of our Welcome page.

  • What age and vaccinations are required for dog training classes?

    Puppy class: Puppies must be 16 weeks or younger on the first day of class and require DHPP (distemper/parvo) vaccinations.

    All other Classes: Dogs must be older than 16 weeks and require DHPP vaccination. Dogs over 6 months must have rabies vaccination.

    Vaccinations help ensure a safe training environment for all dogs attending classes with Santa Clara Dog Training Club.

  • What is the cancellation & refund policy?

    Cancellations made before the first class of a session are eligible for a refund, minus processing fees (currently about $13). No refunds, credits, or prorated fees are available once a session has started, including for missed classes.

    Registration is limited to one handler per dog. Any additional registrations for the same dog will be canceled and refunded, minus fees.

    Class transfers may be available if you need a different skill level, subject to space and any price differences. Contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

  • The class I want is full. Can I waitlist it?

    If your favorite class is full, please add yourself to the waitlist.  We frequently contact students from this list and if enough interest will add classes.

  • Can I switch dog training classes after registering?

    Class changes may be possible if space is available in another class. We will do our best to help accommodate requests. Please email us at scdtccommunications@gmail.com to inquire about switching classes.

  • Can my child handle my dog in an obedience class?

    Children handling a dog in an obedience class must be 12 years or older and able to maintain full control of the dog at all times. Please contact us to discuss whether a class is a good fit for your child and dog.

  • Can my dog attend class in season (heat)?

    Female dogs that come into season (heat) during an active class enrollment are welcome to continue participating under the following guidelines:

    • Notify your instructor when your dog is in season & you will be attending class.

    • Dogs attending class while in season must wear an appropriate protective garment (such as dog sanitary pants/diapers) at all times while on facility grounds and during training class.

    Students may also choose to temporarily miss classes while their dog is in season. In that case:

    • SCDTC will provide a credit for up to two missed classes toward a future class enrollment.

    • Credits are non-refundable and must be used for a future class registration.

    • To receive credit, students must notify the instructor before each missed class.  Credits will be sent via email at the end the session.

  • Is Santa Clara Dog Training Club an AKC Member Club?

    Yes. Santa Clara Dog Training Club is a licensed and member of the American Kennel Club (AKC) club.

    We are recognized by the AKC and authorized to host official all-breed events where dogs may earn AKC points and titles.

    As an AKC Member Club, Santa Clara Dog Training Club also has a delegate to the AKC and holds voting privileges within the organization.

  • How do I become a member?

    We’re glad you’re interested in becoming a member of Santa Clara Dog Training Club!

    The best way to get started is by enrolling in our dog training classes so you can get to know our club, instructors, and community.

    When you’re ready, ask a club member to sponsor you, and you’ll be on your way to membership.

    We’re always happy to welcome new members into our nonprofit dog training club.

  • Are classes held during inclement weather?

    For the safety of dogs, handlers, and instructors classes may be postponed under the following conditions:

    *Forecasted temperatures above 90°F

    *Forecasted rain above a 50% probability at 5:00 PM (verified on weather.com)

    *A county-issued heat advisory

    *A Hazardous Air Quality Index (AQI) reported by AirNow.gov

    Postponement decisions will be made by 5pm on the day before class. If a class is postponed, registered students will be sent an email announcement from Santa Clara Dog Training Club.