Molly’s AdobeDogs

Molly’s AdobeDogs provides a range of training options, including group classes and private consultations. Classes are conducted indoors at the American Legion Hall in Los Altos, with occasional outdoor exercises depending on weather. The training philosophy centers on using positive reinforcement and food to teach dogs basic manners, cues, decision-making skills, and how to remain calm in various situations. The ultimate goal is to foster a trusting, happy, and well-behaved canine companion.

Specific programs include puppy classes, which incorporate puppy playtime. Additionally, Julie Bond offers specialized short courses on topics such as “Kids & Dogs” and “Introduction to Therapy Dogs.”

Policies

Puppies must be at least 10 weeks old and have been in the client’s home for a minimum of 10 days before attending a class or playgroup. If a puppy flew in cargo on a plane, this in-home period extends to 2 weeks.

Molly’s AdobeDogs, formerly Adobe Dogs, is a dog training business owned by Molly Hughes. The business focuses on helping dog owners raise “GREAT family dogs that will thrive in our community,” emphasizing real-life training over competitive obedience or agility. They aim to develop trusting, happy, well-behaved companions who can make good decisions, remain calm, and follow directions without constant micromanagement.

Classes are primarily held indoors at the American Legion Hall in Los Altos, which helps prepare dogs for outdoor activities. Molly’s AdobeDogs offers a variety of classes suitable for dogs and owners of all ages and skill levels. A unique advantage is the seminars presented by Julie Bond, an animal behaviorist, drawing on her extensive background, which are not typically found at other training facilities.

The team includes Molly Hughes, who is the owner and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA); Marina Egorova, the main trainer who has worked with the business for over eight years; and Julie Bond, an animal behaviorist. Molly offers private consultations for small dogs, rescue dogs, and new puppy orientation. Marina provides private consultations for larger dogs and addresses various behavioral issues. Julie offers specialized short courses, including “Kids & Dogs” and “Introduction to Therapy Dogs,” and is a valuable resource for addressing difficult behavior problems.

Accomplishments

Molly Hughes, the owner, is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer—Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA). She has completed courses and attended seminars from notable trainers and organizations including Karen Pryor Academy (Puppy Start Right and Dog Trainer Foundations), Trish King (Academy of Dog Behavior), Charles Wilhelm, Kay Laurence, Ken Ramirez, Robin Bennett, and The Family Dog.

Marina Egorova, the main trainer, worked with the previous owner, Trish Wamsat, for over eight years. She has attended seminars with Suzanne Clothier and Mary Ray, and has participated in Nose Work training. Julie Bond holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Animal Behavior from the University of California at Davis. Her career includes experience as an animal health technician, practice manager for a veterinarian, and a Wild Animal Trainer at the San Diego Wild Animal Park. She also founded Pet Education and Training Services (P.E.T.S.).

How to Get Started!

To begin, clients should email Molly@AdobeDogs.com. The email should include the dog’s breed and age, and specify the reason for seeking help, indicating interest in classes, private training, or both. For new puppies, it is recommended to contact Molly before bringing the puppy home, providing the pup’s breed, expected arrival date, and birth date. If a response is not received within 48 hours, clients are advised to send a text message to 650-450-7541, including their name and email address.