orion dog training

Programs are offered in 6-week structured sessions with set start dates, including Puppy Training (ages 2–12 months), Adult Dog Training, Agility, Nose Work, AKC Trick Dog, and Control Unleashed. Puppy Socials are available for puppies with just one vaccine and for small breeds under 10 lbs. Drop-in agility practice is offered weekly. Private lessons are available through individual trainers. Classes are held in a dedicated indoor facility with props and structured curriculum to build skills progressively and earn AKC titles.

Pricing Summary

Group classes range from $30 for puppy socials to $275–$295 for 6-week programs like AKC Trick Dog and Intro to Treibball. Drop-in agility practice is $39 per session. Pricing is structured per class or course, with no mention of package discounts or membership fees.

Policies

Classes are held year-round except December 24–25 and January 1. Cancellation and refund policies are available on their website, though specific terms are not detailed in the content. No mention of make-up classes or transfer policies.

Orion Dog Training is a state-of-the-art facility in San Jose offering in-person group classes for dogs of all ages, from puppies to adults. They specialize in positive reinforcement training methods and provide a climate-controlled 3,000 sq ft indoor space with free parking. Classes include Puppy Training, Adult Dog Training, Agility, Nose Work, Control Unleashed, AKC Trick Dog, Treibball, Loose Leash Walking, and Puppy Socials. They offer specialized programs for small, shy puppies and reactive dogs, with classes starting as early as after the first vaccine. Their team includes certified trainers with backgrounds in animal behavior, search and rescue, and shelter work, ensuring experienced, science-based guidance. The facility supports both recreational and skill-building training, with opportunities to earn AKC titles and participate in niche sports like antler shed hunts and dog parkour.

Trainers include Dieuwke van der Velde (12+ years experience, certified by Animal Behavior College, former Humane Society intern, CARDA search & rescue), Vicki Huebner (CPDT-KA, AKC CGC Examiner), Leena Koivuniemi (Animal Behavior College graduate, IDPKA certification in progress), and Ani (Karen Pryor Academy Certified, Fear Free Certified, AKC CGC Evaluator). They also collaborate with foster organizations and host community events to support local shelters.

Additional services include drop-in agility practice, private lessons, and educational resources through their blog and OrionGives program. They do not offer boarding, grooming, walking, or daycare services.

The facility is open year-round except December 24–25 and January 1, with classes available on weekdays and weekends during mornings, afternoons, and evenings.

Accomplishments

Dieuwke van der Velde has 12+ years of experience, including 3 years in CARDA search and rescue, and helped dogs earn AKC Trick titles. Vicki Huebner is a CPDT-KA and AKC CGC Certified Examiner. Leena Koivuniemi has trained her dog to earn novice through expert trick titles and is pursuing IDPKA instructor certification. Ani is a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner and Fear Free Certified. Multiple trainers have fostered and rehabilitated dogs through rescue organizations for over a decade.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can review class schedules and start dates on the website, then register for upcoming sessions. Private lessons are arranged by contacting individual trainers directly. No mention of a required initial evaluation or consultation.