Field of Dreams

Training programs are structured in levels (BA to PhD equivalent) with open enrollment, allowing clients to start anytime. Classes include Puppy Life Skills (up to 5 months), Teenager Life Skills (5–12 months), Obedience Levels, Agility (6 levels), Canine Good Citizens, Disc Dog, Scentwork, Rowdy Rover, and Intro to Sports. Each class is 45 minutes, with small groups and professional trainers. Day care includes small-group play, rest breaks, and trainer oversight. Private consultations are available for behavior issues.

Pricing Summary

Classes are offered in 2- or 3-month semesters with 1 or 2 sessions per week (45 minutes each). Discounts are available: $100 off for 2 nights/week with code FODK93M for 3-month puppy/teen classes, and $50 off for 2 nights/week with code FODK92M for 2-month puppy/teen classes. Private training and day care pricing not specified. Grooming and other services have separate pricing available upon request.

Field of Dreams Dog Training and Doggie Day School is a long-standing dog training facility in Vinton, Virginia, founded by Karen Hough with nearly 20 years of experience in positive reinforcement training. They offer group training classes for puppies, adolescents, and adult dogs, covering obedience, agility, scent work, and life skills, all using reward-based methods without aversive tools. Their facility features a climate-controlled, 3,500-square-foot indoor training space with outdoor access, and they maintain small class sizes of up to 8 dogs (or 10 with an assistant). They also provide doggie day care with small, supervised play groups based on energy level and size, and offer private training consultations for behavior issues. Agility training is a major focus, with six levels from beginner to advanced, taught by a nationally ranked competitor and NADAC judge. They discontinued general training classes as of June 1, 2024, but continue offering agility and day care services.

Their staff includes certified trainers with backgrounds in animal behavior, veterinary science, and education, and they emphasize fun, engagement, and real-world application in all programs. They also offer grooming services and sell trusted pet products. The facility is designed for safety and comfort, with onsite restrooms and escape-proof training areas.

Field of Dreams has been serving the Roanoke Valley since 2005 and previously operated under Star City Canine Club and Saint Francis Service Dog Foundation, contributing to shelter dog adoption programs and service dog training.

They now focus on agility classes and doggie day care, with open enrollment and no registration deadlines, allowing clients to start at any time.

Accomplishments

Karen Hough, owner, is a nationally ranked agility competitor and NADAC judge. She co-founded Star City Canine Club in 1995, directed training for Saint Francis Service Dog Foundation, and helped develop the Roanoke Valley SPCA’s Open Paw program. Staff include CPDT-KA certified trainers and professionals with degrees in animal behavior and veterinary science.

How to Get Started!

Register online for classes or contact to schedule a private consultation. Attend a free online orientation video before starting classes. No in-person orientation required.