Homer Dog Trainers

Classes are structured in progressive levels: Puppy Kindergarten (8-16 weeks), followed by Basic Manners, then specialized tracks in Agility, Rally, or K9 Nose Work. Each program has prerequisites and builds skills over 4–6 week sessions. Nose Work has four progressive levels, and Agility has Foundations, Novice, and Advanced Run Throughs. Classes are group-based and require minimum enrollment to run.

Pricing Summary

Class fees range from $65 for 3-week Puppy Kindergarten to $130 for 6-week Basic Manners, Agility, or Nose Work courses. Drop-in Advanced Run Throughs are $11 per class. All fees support facility upkeep and training supplies.

Policies

Class schedules are subject to change based on instructor availability and enrollment. Puppy Kindergarten requires vaccination records and a one-week settling-in period after adoption. No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated.

Homer Dog Trainers is a volunteer-run, non-profit dog training program operated by Homer Animal Friends, a local organization dedicated to animal welfare in Homer, Alaska. They offer group training classes using only positive reinforcement methods, grounded in behavioral science, to help dog owners build strong, cooperative relationships with their pets. Classes include Puppy Kindergarten, Basic Manners, Rally Obedience, K9 Nose Work, and Agility, all taught by experienced volunteers who are passionate about humane training. The program emphasizes fun, community, and long-term behavior change, with the goal of reducing dog relinquishment to the shelter. All proceeds support facility maintenance, training supplies, and community animal welfare initiatives.

Homer Dog Trainers provides ongoing, scheduled group classes at their facility located at 3804 Heath St, with Puppy Kindergarten offered continuously by appointment. Other classes begin when minimum enrollment is met. Instructors are certified in positive reinforcement techniques and many have competed in dog sports such as agility, nose work, and rally. The program is ideal for owners seeking affordable, science-based training in a supportive, volunteer-driven environment.

Accomplishments

Over 200 puppies have completed Puppy Kindergarten; over 300 dogs have completed basic training; more than 300 dogs have participated in K9 Nose Work. Instructors include NACSW-certified nose work trainers and long-time volunteers with decades of combined experience in multiple dog sports.

How to Get Started!

Interested owners should email homerdogtrainers@gmail.com to inquire about class availability. Puppy Kindergarten requires an appointment; other classes begin when minimum enrollment is reached.