Classes

Training Basics

The Maryland SPCA’s Behavior Department offers classes and advice on how to begin a good relationship with your pet and maintain that relationship throughout the years. We emphasize positive reinforcement training in order to bridge the communication gap between people and pets to make life more enjoyable for the whole family. Start your pet off right with a Meet the Trainer session and when you're ready, you can move on to our All-Star Canine and Super-Star Canine classes!

Meet the Trainer

Meet the Trainer is a free class for new pet parents who adopt a dog from the Maryland SPCA and for the general public interested in learning more about our program. You'll receive tips for dealing with behavior issues that you may be facing and learn some of the basic methods we use in our courses. Bring your dog and your questions! The class meets Sundays from 11:00 a.m. at the MD SPCA. There is no need to register beforehand but please come to class on time. Class will be closed to new clients promptly at 11:00 a.m.

All-Star Canine

All-Star Canine Class is a six-week course designed to help owners create positive relationships with their dogs. Many behavior problems can be prevented or solved with positive, consistent training and socialization. All–Star Canine Class teaches you how to train your dog to do useful things such as "pay attention," "sit" and "go to your bed." It helps you work on leash manners and more. Adopters must register ahead of time for class by emailing Amie, our trainer, or calling 410-235-8826, ext. 151. Go to All-Star Canine Class for more details, including a list of upcoming sessions.

Super-Star Canine

Super-Star Canine is the next step for your training needs! This is a "college" class in skills that are practical in the home and out on the town. At the end of this class, you and your dog can be tested to earn an advanced degree! Super-Star Canine uses a course plan originated by the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. You and your dog will fine-tune skills like "wait at the door," "pass by other dogs" and "table manners," with an option to earn degrees with honors by mastering fun tricks like "roll over," "spin" and "speak!" Please email Amie, our trainer, or call her at 410-235-8826, ext. 151 to learn how to register.

Kitten Kindergarten

Kitten Kindergarten will help get your tiny one started off on the right paw. This is an a la carte course comprised of three classes: In "Visiting the Vet," she'll learn that a trip to her doctor is like a day at the spa, and you'll learn how to safely give medications and keep her nails trimmed. In "Minding Manners" your little tiger will learn how to politely play with people, and you'll learn how to train manners and tricks that will convince your friends you've got the smartest cat in town! In "Road Warriors" your kitten will learn that her carrier is a safe place to nap, and you'll learn how to keep her happy on the road to vacations, the vet, or wherever life leads you! Pick one or all three. Each Kitten Kindergarten class includes discussion on safe toys and activities, and social time with other people and animals. Register here, or email Amie, our trainer, or call her at 410-235-8826, ext. 151.

Other Training Options

For other training options, visit the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.

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