HSSW Behavior and Dog Training Center

Group classes are six-week series (except Puppy Pre-School, which is a single session), with mandatory owner-only orientation before bringing dogs. Classes are held at their dedicated training center. Private training is flexible, with in-person or virtual 50-minute sessions. Programs build progressively: Puppy Pre-School → Puppy Essentials → Basic Manners → Advanced Manners → Reactive Rover. Reactive Rover focuses on stress cue identification and avoidance techniques. All training uses positive reinforcement and emphasizes handler education.

Pricing Summary

Group classes range from $30 (Puppy Pre-School) to $250 (Reactive Rover). Basic Manners, Puppy Essentials, and Advanced Manners are $180 for six sessions. Private training is $80 per 50-minute in-person session or $60 for virtual sessions. All pricing is per dog, with no hidden fees. Payment is required at registration.

Policies

Class size is limited to ensure safety and individual attention. First class of group programs is owner-only; dogs do not attend. Vaccination proof (Distemper/Parvo combo) is required for puppies. No refunds are mentioned, but registration is required to secure a spot. Cancellation or rescheduling policies are not explicitly stated.

HSSW Behavior and Dog Training Center is a nonprofit organization offering positive reinforcement-based dog training classes and private sessions to help dog owners build strong, respectful relationships with their pets. They provide group classes for puppies and adult dogs, including Puppy Pre-School, Basic Manners, Puppy Essentials (AKC S.T.A.R. approved), Reactive Rover, and Advanced Manners (Canine Good Citizen Prep). All classes are held at their dedicated 1,100 sq ft facility, The Swigert Family Behavior and Training Center, in Vancouver, WA. Private training is available in-person or virtually, offering flexibility for dogs with specific needs. Their trainer, Cierra Whitcomb, is a certified professional with over a decade of experience in behavior and training, specializing in fear-based reactivity, socialization, and confidence-building. The center also supports the community with spay/neuter services, pet food assistance, and adoption resources.

Their programs emphasize science-based, reward-driven methods to reduce stress and build trust. Classes are small, with limited enrollment to ensure personalized attention. First sessions are owner-only to prepare handlers before bringing dogs in. They cater to puppies, adolescents, and adult dogs, with specific programs for reactive dogs and senior pets. The facility is clean, spacious, and includes a bathroom for convenience.

HSSW is part of a larger humane society that provides animal welfare services, making them a trusted, community-focused provider. They offer affordable pricing and have received consistent praise from clients for their compassionate, effective training methods and supportive environment.

Accomplishments

Cierra Whitcomb is a CPDT-KA certified trainer, AKC CGC Evaluator, and CCFC (Certified Canine Fitness Coach). She has over a decade of experience training dogs, managing kennels, and fostering for rescues. She specializes in positive, science-based methods and has helped numerous dogs overcome fear and reactivity.

How to Get Started!

Owners must register online via the provided links for group classes or private sessions. For group classes, the first session is owner-only to review protocols. For private training, availability is flexible and can be scheduled online. All participants must review class requirements before registering.