Dogs in Progress – Dog Agility

Classes are structured in progressive levels: Basic Obedience (Ruff Around the Edges), Intermediate Obedience (Pooch the Limits), Intermediate 2, Basic Leash Skills, Terrier Basics, Intermediate Terrier, Novice Rally Obedience, and Foundation Agility. Each class builds on prior skills with increasing distractions and complexity. Agility classes progress from Foundation to Levels 1–4 and competition level by instructor approval. All classes require preregistration and have strict prerequisites. Classes are held weekly at fixed times and locations.

Pricing Summary

Group classes range from $170 to $250 for 3–6 week sessions. Agility classes have no refunds once started, with refunds available only up to 48 hours prior. Preregistration is required for all classes. No pricing is listed for private lessons as they are no longer offered.

Policies

Preregistration is required for all classes. No refunds for agility classes once the session begins; refunds available only if canceled 48+ hours before start. Dogs with reactivity issues must complete a private lesson before joining group classes. No free play in basic obedience classes; dogs must remain on leash. No exceptions to prerequisites for Intermediate 2. Private lessons are no longer offered, but referrals are provided.

Dogs in Progress is a dog training business based in Woodinville, WA, founded by Katie Morrell in 2010. The business specializes in group classes for obedience, agility, rally obedience, and terrier-specific training, led by certified trainers Katie Morrell and Lizzi Mulligan. Katie is a behavior consultant with over 40 years of animal experience and a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, with deep expertise in terrier breeds and behavior modification. The facility offers classes at two locations: Cascade Kennels and Crystal Creek Farm, both equipped for structured, distraction-rich training environments. They provide foundational and advanced agility training, including foundation, levels 1–4, and competition-level courses, taught by Margaret Hughes and Weronika Evans. They also offer specialized classes for terriers and introductory rally obedience, with a strong emphasis on positive reinforcement and building handler-dog communication. While private lessons are no longer offered, referrals are provided for dogs with reactivity or aggression issues. The business also promotes ongoing training through multi-level progression and encourages participation in performance events like agility and nosework.

Dogs in Progress does not offer in-home, boarding, grooming, or day training services, but partners with affiliated facilities for puppy classes, therapy dog training, and conformation handling. Their training philosophy centers on building confidence, body awareness, and a strong bond between dog and handler through structured, progressive classes.

The business highlights the success stories of Katie’s own dogs, including Cruz, a rescued border terrier who overcame paralysis and now participates in nosework and demo work, and Brazen and Enzo, who compete in agility and rally. These real-life examples demonstrate the effectiveness of their training methods and commitment to lifelong learning for dogs of all abilities.

Accomplishments

Katie Morrell has over 40 years of animal experience, a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, and specializes in terrier breeds and behavior modification. She has trained and competed with multiple dogs in AKC obedience, agility, rally, and nosework. Her dog Cruz competed in the AKC Agility Invitational (2017) and Nationals (2018), and later earned a nosework title after recovering from paralysis. Brazen earned titles in conformation, rally, earthdog, and agility. Enzo and Tyson are also titled competitors. Katie is active in local dog organizations and rescues.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must review the current class schedule and preregister online. For intermediate or advanced classes, email katie@dogsinprogress.com for instructor approval. Dogs with reactivity or aggression must first complete a private lesson via referral. Beginners should start with Ruff Around the Edges or Foundation Agility based on their dog’s experience level.