Private Lesssons Private, in-home, lessons allow us to come to you for training, and offers the chance for one-on-one sessions with a trainer. A private lesson offers the opportunity for dogs to learn basic obedience or for the family to learn problem solving techniques for unwanted behaviors. Learn how to solve issues such as potty training, jumping, barking, leash manners, chewing, separation anxiety, and other specific behavior concerns. Call today to discuss what customized private lesson is right for you. Single lessons for behavior problem solving can be purchased per hour. If interested in basic obedience and problem solving we offer 5 lessons at a discounted price.
Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Test The American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen test is designed to reward dogs with good manners in the home and around the community. It teaches responsible pet ownership and good manners for dogs. Each test item will demonstrate that the dog has the knowledge to be a well mannered dog in the house and around the community. All dogs that pass the CGC 10-step test are eligible to receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club. Here is a list of the 10-step test that is reviewed in the Continuing Education Class and tested on the CGC test.- Accepting a friendly stranger
- Sitting politely for petting
- Appearance and grooming
- Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead)
- Walking through a crowd
- Sit and Down on command and staying in place
- Coming when called
- Reaction to another dog
- Reaction to distraction
- Supervised Separation
2023 Class to be Announced
*** Remember that this class does not teach the above skills but tests and certifies that each dog can perform them.
A special ‘Thank you’ for your classes. They were both informative and fun. You not only covered ‘class work’ but helped us with our individual needs. Best Regards.
– Cathy and Bailey
4 Paws Obedience Classes
Classes and private lessonsClasses
Group classes are offered at a convenient location:Downers Grove Animal Hospital 635 Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515
For your dogs safety proof of vaccination is required for all group classes. At the first class please bring proof of Rabies, Distemper (DHLPPV), Bordetella, and a fecal test.
Puppy Kindergarten, Basic Obedience, and Good Manners This class is designed for dogs 12 weeks to one year of age. Our puppy classes are taught at Downers Grove Animal Hospital. Our location offers a secure environment that allows us to teach our classes mostly off leash to give the family practice with off leash control around other dogs. This will help for learning cues around the house and while out on the town. The whole family can participate in class to help teach many cues such as…Sit, Down, Leave It, Stay, Come, Watch me, Take it/Drop it, and Speak/Quiet, plus so much more! We will also discuss potty training and crate training, mouthing/puppy nipping, jumping, handling, and leash manners. Class sizes are small- usually no more then 3 dogs ensuring one-on-one attention and space to work.Class Schedule (6 Week Course)
| Class Start date: | |
| Wednesday August 23, 2023 All Classes after August postponed, and will resume January 2024 | 7:30 – 8:30pm – Full, wait list |
***Puppies will not attend the first class***
Basic Obedience Adult Class (6 weeks)
This class is designed for dogs over one year of age. Teaches cues such as Sit, Stay, Come, Drop it, Heel, Leave It, Touch (Target), and more. We will also discuss any behavior problems such as potty training, jumping, digging, and leash manners. We will also discuss handling and dog park etiquette. For our Adult dog classes, both dogs and family members will attend all six lessons. Class sizes are small- usually no more then 3 dogs.
Class Start Date:
Adult Classes postponed and will resume January 2024
Continuing Education (5 weeks)
Join us for a review on basic cues, build on the skills already known, and continue to learn new cues. In this class you and your four legged friend will build on old cues such as stay, come, and heel. We will work closely with the other dogs in the class to ensure good manners when meeting others on walks, and learn focus and control with other dogs present. We will also practice the requirements for the American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen Program. Our last class (week 5) will be for dog and handlers interested in taking the test for the AKC Canine Good Citizen Program. Try your skills at agility! During class each dog and handler will also be able to work and learn with an agility tunnel, jump, and weave poles.
This class is held outside once a year during the Spring/Summer months. The class schedule depends on good whether, therefore rain delays/cancellations may be possible.
| Class Start Date: | |
| 2024 Class Date to be Announced | |
K9 Games Event
Our K9 Games Event is an annual one day group class held at Downers Grove Animal Hospital. We invite the whole family to join us for a fun way to review cues and tricks. We have incorporated friendly competition and creative thinking to give your family and your dog a great bonding experience. Play games such as musical chairs, Lassie says, Relay races, Doggie Bowling and so many more. We will also have an agility tunnel, jumps, and weave poles available for your dog to practice new skills. Each dog and family team goes home a winner with gifts and prizes.
The majority of this class is held outside. This event depends on good weather and fair temperatures, therefore rain and extreme summer heat delays/cancellations may be possible.
| Class Start date: | |
| 2024 Event Date To Be Announced |
