Obedience Training Club of Greater Lansing

OTCGL offers six 6-week training terms annually with breaks in between. Limited-enrollment classes are skill-building and require registration; drop-in classes are open to those with prior experience and do not require registration. Programs include Puppy, Household, Obedience, Rally, CGC, Tricks, Tracking, and Reactive Dog training. Classes progress from beginner to advanced levels. All classes are held at their facility and follow a structured curriculum with instructor-led sessions. Platinum Pass holders receive unlimited access to drop-in classes.

Pricing Summary

Limited-enrollment classes cost $80 for 30-minute sessions and $100 for 45-minute sessions over 6 weeks; Reactive Dog and Tracking classes are $150. Drop-in classes are $15 per session ($10 for juniors). Platinum Pass offers unlimited drop-ins for significant savings. Veterans and active military receive a $10 discount with ID. Cancellations before registration close receive full refunds; after close, a $10 administrative fee applies. Full refunds available within 48 hours of first class if dog is deemed unsuitable.

Policies

Dogs must be healthy and free of symptoms for 7 days before returning to class. No punishment-based training, e-collars, chain leashes, or retractable leashes allowed. Handlers must clean up after dogs and sign in each class. Bitches in season must wear pants. Cancellations before registration close receive full refunds; after close, $10 administrative fee applies. Full refunds available within 48 hours of first class if dog is unsuitable for group training. Classes are canceled when Lansing Public Schools are closed due to weather.

OTCGL is a volunteer-run dog training club in Lansing, MI, offering group classes for dog owners of all experience levels, from basic obedience to competitive dog sports. They provide both limited-enrollment classes with individualized instruction and drop-in classes for those with prior training experience. Classes focus on positive reinforcement methods, as outlined in their strict no-punishment training rules, and include options like Puppy, Household, Rally, Obedience, CGC, Tricks, Tracking, and Reactive Dog training. The club also hosts regular trials and events, fostering a community-oriented environment where owners can bond with their dogs and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Their Platinum Pass offers unlimited drop-in classes and significant savings. The facility is open for training and events, and they welcome all breeds and sizes of dogs.

OTCGL does not offer private in-home lessons, boarding, grooming, or day training. Their training is exclusively facility-based and group-oriented, with a strong emphasis on structured, skill-building programs and ethical training practices.

The club encourages participation in dog sports even for non-competitive owners and provides resources to help owners explore various disciplines. Their volunteer instructors are experienced and diverse, allowing members to try different styles and find the best fit.

All training follows strict rules prohibiting e-collars, shock collars, chain leashes, and punishment-based methods. Dogs must be healthy, leashed outside the ring, and under control at all times.

The club is known for its welcoming, friendly community and active calendar of events, including trials, membership meetings, and annual elections.

Accomplishments

OTCGL hosts regular Rally, Obedience, CGC, and Tracking trials and events. The club has an active membership community and has been operating for many years with consistent programming and volunteer leadership. They are affiliated with national dog training organizations and promote AKC-recognized titles.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients should review the current class schedule on the website, register for limited-enrollment classes online before the registration deadline, or simply show up for drop-in classes. New members are encouraged to read the Training Rules and visit the facility to observe a class before enrolling. Registration opens in early December for the January/February term.