East Longmeadow Dog Obedience Training Club

4.3 Stars,12 Reviews

546 Main St, Hampden, MA 01036

Service area: Serves Hampden, MA and surrounding areas in western Massachusetts, including East Longmeadow and nearby towns within a 15-mile radius.

Service Overview

Types of Dog Training

Family Dog
Therapy Dog
Competition / Agility

Specialty Focus Areas

Basic Obedience
Puppy Training
Leash Pulling
Recall

Training Formats Offered

Group Classes
Private Facility

Program Formats

Sessions Package
Ongoing Weekly

Age of Dogs Trained

Puppy (<1 year)
Adolescent (1-2 years)
Adult (2-8 years)

Dog Training Methodology

Methods:

✓ Other

Equipment:

✓ Flat Collars
✓ Martingale Collars
✓ Obstacle Courses

Training is offered in three progressive levels. Level I is for puppies (3+ months) and adults new to the method, covering basic commands in 8 weekly 60-minute sessions. Level II is for graduates of Level I, focusing on off-leash work and distractions in 45-minute sessions. Level III is for graduates of Level II, emphasizing reliable off-leash control and competition readiness. Each level includes a diploma upon completion. Homework and weekly workbook practice are required.

Pricing & Policies

Pricing Summary

Level I classes cost $185 for an 8-week session, including training collar and leash. Level II and III classes are priced based on membership. No refunds or session changes are permitted after registration.

Policies

No refunds or session changes are allowed once registration is completed. Students may be asked to sit and observe without their dog if they withdraw, but no make-up classes are offered. Dogs under 6 months require veterinarian approval before enrollment.

Testimonials

We are halfway through level one and I am very impressed. I am hoping to continue to the next level. I have successfully trained four other dogs, but my newest just wasn’t picking it up. ELDOTC is the best in my opinion. In just a few short weeks, my boy heels, sits, stays and does not run to other dogs. We tried training at one of the pet stores. My dog just continued to bark during class. The trainer did not seem to know what to do. I was concerned about bringing him to ELDOTC thinking he might be disruptive. They assured me he would be welcome. During the very first class, Jackie showed me how to get him to settle. From then on, he learned to focus on training and not everyone else. I could go on forever. I would give 10 stars if I could. The trainers are excellent. I think people need to understand the importance of practicing at home during the week. We are given a workbook that goes through everything week by week. In addition, we are able to contact trainers between classes if we have questions. They will stay after class if you need help, too. I don’t think they could be more supportive!
– Anonymous

I have trained 5 dogs with the ELDOTC’s help. The Trainers are patient and always available to answer questions. There is a commitment necessary by the owner as there is homework to do. The more time and practice you are willing to put in at home the better your results will be. I see the time spent as an investment in my dogs future as part of our family and one of my current dogs is a Therapy dog
– Anonymous

ELDOTC has helped train two of my dogs as therapy dogs. Both passed on the first test. The key is practicing, following the tenants and patience. I would recommend this school to anyone. They have helped so many dogs who were seemingly out of control but just needed some discipline and consistency.
– Anonymous

About the Trainer

East Longmeadow Dog Obedience Training Club (ELDOTC), established in 1946, offers group obedience training classes for dog owners who want to learn how to train their dogs using the Volhard Motivational Method. The program emphasizes teaching the handler—focusing on body posture, leash handling, tone of voice, and understanding dog behavior—rather than training the dog directly. Classes are held at their facility in Hampden, MA, and are structured into three progressive levels: Level I covers basic commands like Heel, Sit, Down, Stay, Stand, Come, Long Sit, and Long Down; Level II builds on these with off-leash work and distraction training; Level III focuses on reliable off-leash control and prepares dogs for Novice Obedience Competition. Classes are limited to 6 dogs per session, with one instructor and 1–2 assistants present. Each participant receives a training collar, leash, and diploma upon completion. The club encourages consistent at-home practice and offers support between classes. They do not offer private, in-home, board-and-train, or video services.

The training method avoids treats and uses snap-around collars, with instruction based on a structured workbook. While many owners report success, including training therapy dogs, some reviews note inconsistencies in individual attention and changes in teaching methods between weeks.

ELDOTC has trained multiple therapy dogs that passed certification on the first attempt, and many clients have used their services for multiple dogs over decades.

Accomplishments

ELDOTC has helped train multiple dogs that successfully passed therapy dog certification on the first attempt. The club has been operating since 1946 and has trained generations of dogs and owners in the region.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can register online for an upcoming Level I class. No initial consultation or evaluation is required before registration. Class start dates are listed on the homepage with registration links.

Book Now Contact

79+ Years Experience
Free Consultation

Availability

Weekdays
Evening

Hours

Monday: 6-8pm
Tuesday: 6-8pm
Wednesday: 6-8pm
Thursday: 6-8pm
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Associations

Languages

English

wheelchair accessible parking
restroom unisex

Location