Canine Obedience Training at Hunt Club

Training programs include 5-week group classes (1 hour/week) in Puppy Kindergarten, Basic, Basic Plus, Sub-Novice, Novice, Rally, Rally Combo, and Little Paws (for dogs under 50 lbs). Little Paws offers the same curriculum as larger dog classes tailored for small breeds. Private lessons are customizable and offered at training facilities or in-home. The “We Train First” program involves Dory training the dog first, followed by owner instruction. Specialty classes like show handling and carting are offered when 5+ students enroll. All programs emphasize communication, reliability on and off-leash, and behavior modification.

Pricing Summary

Five-week group classes cost $179. Private lessons: $99 for 30 minutes, $149.99 for 1 hour. In-home training: $224.99 for a 90-minute session, with packages of 4, 6, 8, or 10 sessions available. “We Train First” pricing available upon request. Payment by cash, check, or Venmo. Discounts offered for purchasing multiple private lesson packages.

Policies

Before registering for group classes, clients must call or text to discuss availability. Registration requires completion of a form, and payment is due at the first class via cash or check. Credit card payments are accepted via Venmo upon request. No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated.

Canine Obedience Training at Hunt Club, led by professional trainer Dory Hofmann, offers customized dog training services in Virginia Beach and Chesapeake. Dory provides group classes, private lessons, in-home training, and a unique “We Train First” program where she trains the dog first, then teaches the owner. Training is based on positive reinforcement, behavioral theory, and professional techniques to improve communication between dogs and owners. Services include Puppy Kindergarten, Basic, Sub-Novice, Novice, Rally, Little Paws (for dogs under 50 lbs), and specialty classes like agility and carting. Dory specializes in behavior modification for aggression, separation anxiety, reactivity, and fearfulness, and is frequently called as an expert witness in dog-related legal cases. Classes are held indoors in climate-controlled, fully matted facilities, and private sessions are available at two training locations or in the client’s home.

Dory has over 30 years of experience training dogs for families, competition, and behavior correction. She encourages owner-handling in competitive venues and has won top honors at prestigious events like Westminster Kennel Club. Her teaching style is uncomplicated, supportive, and focused on building trust and mutual respect. Clients praise her for personalized attention, even in group settings, and for providing ongoing support via text.

Additional services include boarding options for the “We Train First” program, and she offers resources for health registries and professional dog organizations. Training is available for puppies, adolescents, adults, and senior dogs, with special attention to small breeds and complex behavioral issues.

Accomplishments

Dory Hofmann has over 30 years of professional training experience in the Tidewater region. She has won top honors at prestigious events including Westminster Kennel Club, World Dog Show, and competitions under AKC, ARBA, and UKC. She has been voted best dog training in Virginia Beach three years in a row. Dory has demonstrated training techniques on local TV (Channel 3) and the Hampton Roads Show with over 15 dogs. She frequently testifies as an expert witness in dog-related legal cases.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must call or text 757.532.7688 before completing the registration form to discuss available class times, training options, and program suitability. Group classes require pre-approval and scheduling. Private and in-home training can be arranged by phone or text.