POTC offers a comprehensive training program for all levels of dogs. Training is offered in Puppy Class, Household Manners, Basic Beginner Obedience as well as AKC and UKC Obedience, Agility and Conformation.

Puppy Class (6 weeks - $75)

This is a 6 week course designed for puppy socialization.  This fun & games class is for pups 3 months to 5 months old.  Emphasis is placed on puppy care and safety concerns.  Building confidence and some basic commands are introduced such as:  sit, walk on leash, down, come when called.  Help is also given with potty training, grooming, chewing issues & other household concerns.

Manners Class (6 weeks - $75)

This course is for obedience in the home.  It stresses good household manners and is for dogs 5 months of age or older. This class teaches dogs not to jump up, come when called, walk on a loose lead, and to accept extensive handling and touching.  This is especially helpful for grooming or vet visits.  Extra time is also spent dealing with specific problems.

Beginner Obedience Class (8 weeks - $85)

Dogs should be 6 months of age or older.  During this class, your dog will learn to heel on leash (helpful when walking in public), stand for examination, come when called, sit stay, and down stay.  These exercises follow the AKC format and provide a foundation for training for obedience titles, but the training methods used are easy for those who simply desire a good family pet.  You should plan to invest 10-15 minutes daily for at-home practice.

Beginner Agility Class (8 weeks - $85)

A beginner obedience class is a prerequisite.  This course requires pre-registration for both members and non-members.  If your dog loves to be busy and has a lot of energy for running, jumping, and doing obstacles, then this class might be for you.

Intermediate Agility Class  (8 weeks - $85)

This course is for the dog that has completed beginner agility. It builds on the skills previously taught.  The handler also learns teamwork, sequencing and handling skills.

Other Activities at POTC

4H Class - As a community service, POTC offers classes for 4H members at no charge to them.  Call the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Office for details.

Flyball - This is a relay race for dogs that involves running, jumping hurdles, and catching tennis balls.  This is a members only activity and dogs need to go through a beginners obedience class first.