Ohio Valley Dog Obedience Training

Classes are 6 weeks long, with one-hour sessions per week. Programs include Puppy Manners, Beginning Manners, Manners, Advanced Manners, AKC Star Puppy, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), and Trick Dog. All classes are group-based and held at the club’s facility. Completion of two classes qualifies owners for membership. Tests are included in AKC and Trick Dog programs. No private or intensive programs are offered.

Pricing Summary

Non-members pay $75 for basic manners classes and $85 for AKC Star Puppy, CGC, or Trick Dog classes (includes test). Members pay $30 for basic manners and $40 for AKC/Trick Dog classes. Membership requires completion of two classes and costs $40 for single or $45 for family. Payments must be mailed to PO Box 76, Bellaire, OH 43906.

Policies

Aggressive dogs are not accepted and will be referred elsewhere. Dogs that become unsafe in class, such as by escaping collars or engaging in fights, may be dismissed. Members must complete two classes before becoming eligible for membership. Payments are non-refundable unless explicitly processed by the club, as one reviewer reported a refund check being cashed despite cancellation. No formal cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated on the website.

Upper Ohio Valley Obedience Training Club (UOVOTC) is a community-based dog training club offering group obedience classes for dog owners in the Bellaire, Ohio area. They provide structured 6-week courses ranging from Puppy Manners to Advanced Manners and specialized programs like AKC Star Puppy, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), and Trick Dog training. Classes are held at a dedicated facility and emphasize positive reinforcement techniques using food treats, with clear guidelines on equipment such as flat buckle or martingale collars and 6-foot leashes. Members receive discounted class rates after completing two classes, and the club hosts annual events like Christmas parties and Blessing of the Animals. They do not handle aggressive dogs but can refer owners to local 1-on-1 trainers. The club fosters a supportive environment for owners to build better relationships with their dogs through consistent training and community engagement.

UOVOTC is run by a volunteer board of experienced dog owners and trainers who prioritize safety, consistency, and education. They provide detailed pre-class instructions on treat types, attire, and feeding schedules to ensure successful training sessions. Their focus is on foundational obedience and dog sports preparation rather than behavior modification for aggression or severe anxiety.

The club encourages membership after two classes, offering benefits like reduced fees, social events, and recognition of training achievements. They do not offer private, in-home, board-and-train, or day training services.

Note: The website is under maintenance for class descriptions and applications, and payments must be mailed to a PO Box.

Reviews indicate mixed experiences: some praise knowledgeable, friendly instructors and progress with their dogs, while others report safety concerns, inconsistent equipment guidance, and abrupt dismissals without adequate support.

The club is not a commercial business but a nonprofit training club organized by volunteers.

Accomplishments

The club hosts an annual Christmas party where owners receive plaques recognizing titles earned by their dogs, such as CGC or Trick Dog titles. The club has been operating for multiple years with a volunteer board of experienced dog owners.

How to Get Started!

Prospective students must review class descriptions on the Class Descriptions page, complete the online Class Application, and mail payment to UOVOTC PO Box 76, Bellaire, OH 43906. An email with class details will be sent one week before the session begins. Membership is automatic after completing two classes.