Canine Learning Center

Classes are organized by discipline and run as scheduled multi-week courses, with sessions held on the same day and time each week. Programs include puppy kindergarten, basic obedience, rally, conformation, behavior modification, and specialty workshops like odor detection and snake avoidance. Classes are grouped by dog size and energy level for optimal learning. Private lessons are available through affiliated trainers. All classes use positive reinforcement, treats, and toys. Homework sheets are provided weekly to support at-home training.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not listed publicly; clients are directed to the Register page for class fees. Group classes are structured as multi-week sessions with consistent weekly timing. Private lessons are offered through affiliated trainers with separate pricing. Massage therapy and specialized programs like odor detection have separate fees.

Policies

Class start dates are listed on the schedule, and sessions run for the published number of weeks. No specific cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated on the website. Clients are encouraged to contact the center directly for inquiries. Private lessons are arranged by appointment.

Canine Learning Center is a long-standing dog training facility in Fort Collins, CO, founded in 1993 and now under new ownership by Kathryn and Brad Ray since November 2023. They offer a wide range of group classes for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs, covering obedience, rally, conformation, behavior modification, wellness, Canine Good Citizen, and life skills. The center emphasizes positive reinforcement methods and tailors training to individual dog-family dynamics. Instructors include certified professionals with decades of combined experience, including a PhD in animal behavior and AKC evaluators. They also offer private lessons through affiliated trainers, canine massage therapy, odor detection, and snake avoidance programs. The facility has recently been refreshed with updated classrooms and a dedicated therapy room. Clients appreciate the supportive community, weekly homework sheets, complimentary treats, and flexible class scheduling.

The center welcomes dogs of all breeds and sizes, from small terriers to large livestock guardians, and provides training for competitive, family, and behavior-focused goals. They also offer space rental for dog-related activities and host community events. Their team includes experienced conformation handlers, obedience champions, and 4-H program leaders, ensuring expertise across disciplines.

Private training is available through affiliated trainers like Emily Bink, Hope Mielke, and Dr. Sarah King, who offer specialized services including puppy board-and-train, behavior consulting, and scent work. The center is known for its clean, inviting environment and commitment to force-free, science-based training methods.

Accomplishments

Julie Yamane, founder, is an AKC Rally judge who has judged the AKC Rally Nationals twice (2016, 2023) and has over 50 years of training experience. Emily Bink is a Certified Dog Trainer through Karen Pryor Academy and AKC CGC/STAR Puppy Evaluator. Sarah King holds a PhD in animal behavior. Judy Walton has shown and trained champion whippets and Ibizan hounds for decades. Nita Bitner has shown internationally and photographed major dog shows including Westminster. Francie Pusateri’s dogs have earned multiple Obedience Master and Rally Master titles, including one invited to the 2023 National Obedience Championship. The center has been operating since 1993 with consistent community impact.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can review class descriptions on the website, then register through the Register page. New visitors are encouraged to attend a class to observe or schedule a private consultation through affiliated trainers. Facility tours are available by appointment.