Living with Dogs – Santa Cruz Training Classes

Classes are topic-based and flexible, with no fixed sequence. Clients choose from Family Dog, Puppy, and Dog Sports classes, each focusing on specific skills like sit, down, recall, leash walking, socialization, or agility. Classes are held in multiple locations and times, with one topic per session. Clients can enroll at any time and schedule classes online with 12-hour notice. Puppy classes begin at 9 weeks with vaccine proof; Family Dog classes start at 4 months. All training is group-based, with small class sizes and individual attention.

Pricing Summary

Flexible pricing plans: Flex 120 ($17.50/class, 10 classes over 4 months), Flex 365 ($14.00/class, 26 classes over 1 year), and Unlimited for 3 years. All plans allow booking classes online with no expiration on credits as long as subscription is active.

Policies

Classes require 12 hours’ notice for scheduling or cancellation. No refunds or transfers, but class credits remain valid until subscription expires. Dogs must have current vaccinations and a negative giardia test (for puppies). No private lessons offered; referrals provided for behavior issues requiring one-on-one support.

Living with Dogs is a Santa Cruz County-based dog training business founded in 1999 that specializes in science-based, force-free group training classes for puppies and dogs. They offer flexible, topic-based classes in obedience, puppy socialization, and dog sports like agility, treibball, scent work, and disc dog. Their training philosophy is rooted in positive reinforcement, operant and classical conditioning, and uses no pain, fear, or coercion—avoiding tools like pinch collars, e-collars, or choke chains. They emphasize proactive management, reward-based learning, and clear communication using body language. Classes are held at their facility in Aptos Village and are designed to build confidence and real-world skills, helping dogs behave well in public settings like restaurants and sidewalks. They do not offer private lessons but provide referrals to trusted local behaviorists. Their unique Flex scheduling system allows clients to book classes anytime within their subscription period, with options for 10, 26, or unlimited classes over 3 years.

They also offer a free video series called “Be A Better Dog Trainer” to help owners understand canine behavior, and provide detailed guidance on equipment, puppy care, and proofing behaviors. Their staff are certified professionals committed to continuing education in canine ethology, learning theory, and neurobiology. They prioritize community education, animal advocacy, and ethical training standards.

Puppy classes start as early as 9 weeks with proof of one DHPP vaccine and a negative giardia test, while adult classes require up-to-date vaccinations. All classes are small, hands-on, and focus on teaching dogs what to do rather than correcting bad behavior.

Accomplishments

Founded in 1999, with over 21 years of successful graduates. Staff are certified professional dog trainers (CPDT-KA) and members of the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). Committed to ongoing education in canine ethology, learning theory, and neurobiology. Volunteered in community animal advocacy and educational seminars.

How to Get Started!

Enroll online at any time, submit proof of vaccines and giardia test for puppies, then schedule classes using the online calendar. Start within a week of enrollment. No initial consultation required.