AnimalSense Classes

All Ages Advanced

Take your training to the next level! We'll work on advanced obedience skills including off leash work, learn some new tricks, and try out the sports of Agility, Rally-O and Freestyle. All ages welcome; dogs must be well-versed in basic obedience including a reliable sit, down and recall.

AnimalSense Sampler

Not sure what class to take? Sample a different one each week, including Agility, Clicker Training, Tricks and Games, Freestyle, Rally-O, and Massage and Relaxation Techniques. All ages welcome; dogs should have basic obedience skills including sit, down and recall. A great second class too!

Basic Manners

Learn how to have a polite, well-mannered dog who is welcome anywhere. We'll work on basic skills and also address common issues such as jumping, "counter surfing" and pulling on leash. For dogs over 8 months old who have never taken a class or need a refresher on basic skills.

Bowser and Baby: For Expectant Parents

When your baby comes home, your dog's life will change, too. Learn how to peacefully prepare yourselves and your dog for the adjustment. Classes held at various locations in the ChicagoLand Area, check our Bowser and Baby page for the upcoming dates and locations.

Canine Communication

Ever wondered what's going on inside that furry little head? Come learn to "talk dog" and gain insight into the incredibly complex world of canine communication, including social and play behavior, body language and calming signals, and typical communication breakdowns between the human and canine species. Class fee includes a copy of Turid Rugaas' seminal book Calming Signals: On Talking Terms with Dogs. To maximize learning, human students only will meet for discussion for most classes and dogs will join us as needed. No rescue discount on this class.

Canine Massage and Bodywork

Learn massage and relaxation techniques for your dog. The class is taught by a Certified Massage Therapist (CMT) and special attention is paid to behavior and physical concerns. All ages welcome. A great second class!

Clicker 101

Clicker training is an exciting way of communicating with and training animals using a marker sound. It's been used for years with marine mammals, research animals, and a variety of commercial projects, and recently has taken the dog world by storm. Clicker training is easy to learn, and you don't need special skills or strength to teach your dog. All ages and skill levels are welcome as this class will be customized to meet our students' needs.

Clicks, Tricks and Games

Explore the many uses for clicker training and teach your dogs tons of fancy (and useful) tricks and games. A great way to exercise your dog's mind and body! No prior training required.

Recall & Leash Manners

Walking nicely on leash and coming when called are two of the most essential skills for dogs and their owners. This class offers intensive training in both skills and encourages your dog to pay attention despite distractions. Most classes will be held outdoors. Eight months and up welcome. Please note: if your dog barks, lunges or otherwise acts unruly/aggressive on leash around other dogs, please contact the office before enrolling.

Field Trip

"Field test" your handling and obedience skills with this class! Every week we meet at a new location to train, practice and have tons of fun (first week meets at training center). 8 months and up welcome.

Kids and Dogs

Help your child and dog develop a great relationship! This class just for kids ages 7 to 15 and their dogs will teach your child effective and safe ways to communicate with your dog through training. Dogs must be free of aggression issues to enroll. Parents need to attend weeks 1, 2 and 8 only.

Come Anytime!

Missed the start of the session? Have a "fluid" schedule? Need a makeup for a missed class or a refresher on a particular skill? Join us for this drop-in class customized to the needs of those in attendance. Topics may include basic commands, how to put any behavior on cue, safety commands, and door/guest manners. Fee $30 per meeting (free for currently enrolled students needing a makeup class).

Puppy Pre-School

For puppies up to 16 weeks old. We think this is the single most important class you will ever attend. Intensive socialization plus an introduction to basic cues such as attention, sit, and down will start you and your puppy off on the right paw. We will also discuss housetraining and crate training, handling, mouthing, chewing and more. See Puppy Playlot too!

Puppy Grade School

For puppies 4-8 months old. Your puppy is getting bigger and some behaviors that used to be cute suddenly aren't so cute any more. Come join us to practice basic manners, introduce polite leash walking, and continue socialization. We will also address owner concerns and questions about living harmoniously with a growing puppy. Lay a solid foundation for the rest of your puppy's life!

Focus! Distraction Training For the Real World

Distractions - those crazy things in life that steal your dog's attention when you need it most. Instead, teach your dog that YOU are the most important thing in their world. Come prepared to work - the results will amaze you! 8 months and up.

Dog Gone Issues

For dogs and owners dealing with dog-to-dog aggression and on-leash aggression towards people or other animals. Do not struggle with these difficult problems alone! Instructor permission required to enroll; $400.00 fee for this class. Please contact our office for enrollment information.

Trick My Dog

This is the “Pimp My Ride” of dog training! This enjoyable class provides mental stimulation for your dog while teaching a variety of tricks in a relaxed, stress-free environment. The list of possibilities is endless: shake, high-five, spin, take a bow, sit pretty, wave, hide your eyes, put your toys away, fetch, find it, turn on/off the light, etc. or if you have a special trick or skill you would like to teach your dog, we will help you do it. Teaching tricks is a great way to enhance your relationship with your dog and to improve overall obedience while having a blast! No prior training required.

Fido Foundations

Not sure where to begin? How about with the basics! In Fido Foundation we will help you lay a basic foundation of skills. This class focuses on 4 specific skills: SIT, DOWN, STAY and GO TO PLACE. All great dog training begins from these 4 basic skills. We'll also address common issues such as jumping, "counter surfing”. This class is structured for dogs over 8 months old who have never taken a class or need a refresher on basic skills.

TBD

Possible class addition based on enrollment numbers.

Puppy Olympics

It’s time for Puppy Olympics! Introduce your puppy to various modified agility obstacles including jumps, open and closed tunnels, weave poles, and the seesaw. Great for confidence building and socialization! Also a great addition to our Puppy Pre-School class. This class is available to puppies up to 6 months of age.

Rover's Urban Jungle

Think Fido Foundation meets Field Trip and that's the class we're talkin' about! Here's how this class works: Every other week we will learn or review a basic skill and the following week we'll take the show on the road. This is in-class training meets real world application. Does it get better than that for the summer? Join Jamie for this new and one time only this year class. Ages 8 months and up welcome!

Canine Good Citizen

Ah, finally a test that your DOG has to study for! This wonderful class teaches the skills necessary to pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen test. Highly recommended for people interested in animal-assisted therapy or for dogs who deserve recognition for their good manners! Class includes CGC testing (test fee is included in the cost of the class). All ages welcome; please contact us at office@animalsense.com if you have any questions about the readiness of your dog for this class.

Total Recall

Recall is the single most important skill your dog will need to be safe and successful in virtually any setting. We will work on creating, practicing and perfecting "COME!" Most classes will be held outdoors. All ages welcome, as it's never too early or too late to work on recall. A great second class. (Sorry, Arnold Schwarzenegger does not teach this class.)

Intro to Agility

This totally fun class offers an introduction to various agility obstacles including jumps, open and closed tunnels, weave poles, and the seesaw. Great for confidence building and dogs that love to problem solve. (Ok, you got us! ALL dogs like to problem solve) Just keep in mind that your pooch needs to be happy around other dogs in order to enroll in this fine class. 8 months and up welcome.

Sit, Stay.... PLAY!!

More than mere tricks or simple obedience commands, SIT and STAY are two of the most useful and powerful behaviors your dog can possess. Work towards perfecting both skills while creating healthy play styles to enrich and enhance your relationship with your dog. Have fun while learning to use SIT and STAY to address jumping, counter surfing, and greeting other dogs and people.

My First Dog

So, you’ve got your first dog. Now what? Learn how to have a polite, well-mannered dog who is welcome anywhere. We will work on basic handling and obedience skills to encourage good canine manners and facilitate communication and trust, as well as addressing common issues such as jumping, "counter surfing" and pulling on leash. For dogs who have never taken a class or need a refresher on basic skills. This class is designed for dogs 8 months and older. Younger dogs should enroll in one of our puppy classes.

Small Dogs Only

So your dog isn't a Labrador Retriever or Great Dane? That's okay because now there's a class specifically designed with your little one in mind! We cover all aspects of basic obedience with a focus on small dog skills and issues. All ages, 20 pound weight limit.

Semi-Private Lesson

Enjoy the camaraderie of a group class while receiving individual instruction with a training program tailored to you and your dog. A great option for friends who want to train together or just like the idea of a more intensive training experience. To maximize each student's one-on-one time with your instructors, enrollment is limited to five dogs. Special fee of $400 and class is 90 minutes in length.

Canine Cardio

AnimalSense and Fitness Formula Clubs (www.ffc.com)have joined forces to bring you this innovative class! Get up and go on Saturday mornings with Canine Cardio! Elements of aerobics, yoga, circuit training, and more will get you and your pup into shape! Tone up your body while you tune up your dog's training. Dogs must be friendly and social with other dogs and all people. All ages welcome!

Advanced Tricks and Games

This class is for the dog (and owner) looking for your next training and behavior challenge in a fun, relaxed and supportive environment. Class activities range from off-leash recall work to field trips to innovative games and competitions. Prerequisites: Pooches must have at least a 75% reliable recall, be at least 1 year-old and are happy to see other dogs! Any questions – call our friendly office staff.

Breed Specific Classes

Now, we here at AnimalSense pride ourselves on being the dog trainers to all breeds, especially mutts (Jamie has 3!) But that being said, we also know how fun it is to have a purebred dog and how cool it is to hang out with dogs who look and act similarly. Hence, our breed specific classes! The instructors teaching each of the classes have a tremendous amount of knowledge, and both professional and personal experience with each breed that we are highlighting. Check the schedule to see if your breed has a class this session, and if not, call us to request one! The class is open to any age dog within the breed, but puppies between 7 and 16 weeks need to also be enrolled in a Puppy Pre-School class. (We prefer it is an AnimalSense class, but we’re supportive of any positive training class in the city!)

English Bulldogs Only

Our English Bulldog class will focus on all things Bulldog, including special training issues, health and general care topics, as well as socialization with your fellow bully-pals. Our English Bulldogs Only class is open to any age dog within the breed, but puppies between 7 and 16 weeks need to also be enrolled in a Puppy Pre-School class. (We prefer it is an AnimalSense class, but we’re supportive of any positive training class in the city!) So, come hang out and train with other Bulldog owners where it's all Bulldog, all day!

French Bulldogs Only

Our Frenchie Only class will focus on all things French Bulldog, including special training issues, health and general care topics, as well as socialization with your fellow Frenchie-pals. Our French Bulldogs Only class is open to any age dog within the breed, but puppies between 7 and 16 weeks need to also be enrolled in a Puppy Pre-School class. (We prefer it is an AnimalSense class, but we’re supportive of any positive training class in the city!) So, come hang out and train with other Frenchie owners where it's all Frenchies, all day!

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Only

Our Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Only class will focus on all things Cav, including special training issues, health and general care topics, as well as socialization with your fellow CKCS-pals. Our Cavalier Only class is open to any age dog within the breed, but puppies between 7 and 16 weeks need to also be enrolled in a Puppy Pre-School class. (We prefer it is an AnimalSense class, but we’re supportive of any positive training class in the city!) So, come hang out and train with other Cav owners where it's all Cavs, all day!

Golden Retrievers Only

Our Golden Retriever Only class will focus on all things Golden, including special training issues, health and general care topics, as well as socialization with your fellow Golden-pals. Our Golden Retrievers Only class is open to any age dog within the breed, but puppies between 7 and 16 weeks need to also be enrolled in a Puppy Pre-School class. (We prefer it is an AnimalSense class, but we’re supportive of any positive training class in the city!) So, come hang out and train with other Golden owners where it's all Goldens, all day!

Confidence Building for Shy Dogs

Is your dog a little more timid than most? Spooked by common things? Unsure about new people or new dogs? We can help! This class is designed to increase your dog's confidence levels with games, activities, relaxation techniques and more. Taught by our expert staff, we will guide and support you all the way! All ages welcome and a great 2nd class if you are the parent of a shy puppy.

Boston Terriers Only

Our Bostons Only class will focus on all things Boston Terrier, including special training issues, health and general care topics, as well as socialization with your fellow Boston-pals. Our Boston Terriers Only class is open to any age dog within the breed, but puppies between 7 and 16 weeks need to also be enrolled in a Puppy Pre-School class. (We prefer it is an AnimalSense class, but we’re supportive of any positive training class in the city!) So, come hang out and train with other Boston owners where it's all Bostons, all day!

Small Dog Play-N-Train

So your dog isn't a Labrador Retriever or Great Dane? That's awesome because now there's a class specifically designed with your little one in mind! Small Dog Play-N-Train covers all aspects of basic obedience, manners and pint-sized tricks with our focus on your small dog's needs and outlook! And to make it even better, a portion of class is spent on socialization (playing!) All ages, 15 pound weight limit. All dogs must "play well with others."

Dogster Jekyll and Muttster Hyde

Do you love everything about your dog except the way he or she acts on leash? If your dog is well-behaved when free, but pulls, lunges or acts unruly on leash, this class will help teach you how to safely modify these behaviors and encourage your dog to be calm on walks. This class is not for dogs who have any history of injuring or attempting to cause injury to another dog or person. See Dog Gone Issues if aggression is a concern.

Rovers Urban Jungle I

Think Fido Foundations and Focus meet Field Trip. It’s a way to jump start a beginners or rusty dog’s training while incorporating gentle lower level distractions right away. This class offers dogs and their people a way to develop some awesome foundational skills while enjoying the summer’s weather. Each class will meet in a mildly stimulating environment, but calm enough for any dog to practice new skills successfully. Open to ages 8 months and up. Meets Saturdays 11:30 – 12:30. First class Meets Saturday June 7th at 11:00 at Soggy Paws Uptown.

Run Rover, Run!

Whether you are training for a marathon or just curious about what it means to be a runner, oh, AND you have a dog, then this is the runners program you’ve been seeking! Spend your Saturday mornings with a group of runners led by a 6-time marathon runner who will escort and support you on for a casual run thru the Oak Park – River Forest area. Open to all fitness levels. Dogs must be friendly to dogs and people. This class meets at Fitness Formula Club-Oak Park 1114 Lake Street Oak Park, IL 60301 Dates: Begin Saturday June 7 to August 23 (12 weeks) Time: 8AM-9AM Student Fee: $15/run or $120 for a summer pass

Rovers Urban Jungle II

Just like Rovers Urban Jungle I, this class is designed to allow folks to enjoy our city’s beautiful summer weather all the while training their dogs on higher level skills in a large and social group setting. Just like RUJ I, we’ll meet at a pre-determined off-site location each week to showcase and practice your dogs’ ever-expanding talent level. This class is not for beginners, dogs must be proficient with sit, down and eye contact. Open to ages 8 months and up. Meets Saturdays 1:00 – 2:00. First class Meets Saturday June 7th at 11:00 at Soggy Paws Uptown.

Dog Gone Issues II

This four-week Super Course is designed specifically for grads of Dog Gone Issues I. A great way to use those tools you learned while picking up a few more tricks. Pups will get closer to each other with two instructors on hand. If circumstances allow, there will be some outdoor field trips. This class will have you asking, "Issues? What issues?" $200 fee for this class.

Daytime Dog

Our newest drop-in class, this class will be customized to fit the needs and abilities of each student. Students and instructor will parlay to decide what the class will work on at the beginning of each class. Attend all four classes or just drop on by to see what AnimalSense is all about! Fee $30 per meeting.

On Set With Jamie

We all know Jamie has been training dogs for a new Animal Planet show, but what we really wanna know is, how can we get our pups ready for their close ups? In this four-week Super Course, Jamie and friends will teach you the ins and outs of getting your dog ready for the big and little screens. Students will learn about life on the Animal Planet sets and how to prepare for commercial auditions. While Jamie may not be present at each class due to a fluid shooting schedule, she will do her very best, and Tammy and Amy have firsthand knowledge , having been on set with Jamie themselves. Class fee $200.

Emergency Recall

This course gives away our super secret recipe for perfect recall. One of our favorite classes, Emergency Recall will teach you how to get your pup to come back to you no matter what. Dropped your leash at the park? Fido slipped out the front door? Emergency Recall saves the day!

Mini Field Trip

Just like the maxi version of Field Trip, Mini Field Trip is an outdoor excursion extravaganza! "Field test" your handling and obedience skills with this awesome class. Every week we meet at a new location to train, practice and have tons of fun (first week meets at training center). 8 months and up welcome. Class fee $120.

Leash Walking

This awesome class is all about, well, leash walking! Does your dog pull or need some help greeting strangers and other dogs? You have come to the right place! This class will have Fido prancing along at your side, footloose and fancy free, oblivious to lifes little distractions. Class fee $240.

Summer Skills Refresher

This four-week Super Course focuses on Sit, Down, Stay, and Leash Walking in a fast and furious, totally fun outdoor setting, weather permitting. Fast-paced and intensive, this class is best for dogs that have already learned the basics but just…forget sometimes! A dog that sits and stays every time? Now that’s refreshing! Class fee $120.

Super Social Puppy

This four-week, intensive Super Course focuses on socialization for puppies up to 5 months old, with an intro to the basics. This class offers awesome socialization exercises, including major playtime, exposure to people, and every week a different scene. Do not miss this super perfect Super Puppy class! Class fee $120.

Say Hello

This course is designed to help you teach your dog polite greeting behavior. We have all felt that tinge of embarrassment when the doorbell rings and our pooch jumps up on the guests. All in the past! This class will teach your pup to keep four paws on the floor, and more!

Pugs Only

Our Pugs Only class will focus on all things Pug, including special training issues, health and general care topics, as well as socialization with your fellow Pug-pals. Our Pugs Only class is open to any age dog within the breed, but puppies between 7 and 16 weeks need to also be enrolled in a Puppy Pre-School class. (We prefer it is an AnimalSense class, but we are supportive of any positive training class in the city!) So, come hang out and train with other Pug owners where it is all Pugs, all the time!

Advanced Focus

The most advanced class AnimalSense has ever offered, this class will introduce a wide variety of highly distracting situations using props brought in from the outside world for your dog to completely disregard. Advanced Focus students will work on hard core leave its and watch mes as well as long sit and down-stays. Students must have a solid base of training.

Intro to Competitive Obedience

Have you ever thought about getting involved in competing with your dog in obedience? Are you ready for the next new challenge and bonding experience with your dog? Whether the show ring is in your future or not, this class offers amazing insight and instruction on how to get started down the road of competitive obedience with a seasoned trainer. Join us!

AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy

AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy is a new program designed to get dog owners and their puppies off to a good start! The AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program is an incentive program for loving dog owners who have taken the time to take their puppies through a basic training class (it is a great follow-up to our Puppy Pre-School and Puppy Grade School classes). Both pure and mixed breed puppies up to one year of age are welcome to enroll. This class includes S.T.A.R. testing, a S.T.A.R. Puppy Olympic-style Medal, a listing in the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy records and a frameable certificate. (AKC evaluation fee is included in the cost of the class). Highly recommended for people interested in animal-assisted therapy or for puppies who deserve recognition for their Socialization, Training, Activity and Responsibility!

Snow Dogs

The AnimalSense cure for cabin fever! Need some motivation to stay active with your pooch this winter? In this fun outdoor adventure class you can keep fit with Fido, teach your pup some new skills, and get customized training and behavior advice, all while enjoying the fresh air and exploring some of the best dog-friendly areas in Chicagoland. Appropriate for dogs of all ages, fitness, and training levels, and a great confidence builder for shy dogs. The first class will meet at our Oak Park Canine Learning Center and subsequent classes will meet at various locations in and around Chicago.

Puppy Playlot (Small Breed)

An open session for your small breed puppy that provides opportunities for socialization and a chance for you to meet other dog lovers in a safe and controlled environment, overseen by expert dog trainers. Why freeze your tails off at Montrose beach when you can come to Puppy Playlot where your puppy can socialize in the constructive environment that they need! Your pup must be enrolled concurrently in Puppy Pre-School to be able to attend Puppy Playlot. This session is for small breeds only (under 20 lbs.). Class fee is $115.

Advanced Competitive Obedience

Have you ever thought about getting involved in competing with your dog in obedience? Are you ready for the next new challenge and bonding experience with your dog? Whether the show ring is in your future or not, this class offers amazing insight and instruction on the world of competitive obedience with a seasoned trainer. A great follow up to our Intro. to Competitive Obedience class or for those who think their dog is ready to take it to the next level!