Syracuse Obedience Training Club

SOTC offers classes in basic obedience, competition obedience, conformation handling, rally, freestyle, flyball, agility, and scent work. Classes are held in a group format with 6 to 8 students and generally run for 8 weeks.

The basic obedience program includes three levels: Puppy (for dogs 8-20 weeks), Pre-Basic (for dogs 5-14 months or continuing from Puppy), and Basic (for dogs 14 months and up or continuing from Pre-Basic). Each basic class has a maximum enrollment of eight dogs and meets for 45 minutes once a week for eight weeks. Basic is a prerequisite for most other classes offered.

Students new to SOTC and new to competition are typically recommended to start with Puppy, Pre-Basic, and/or Basic. Students new to SOTC but with competition experience may request permission to enroll in competition-level classes, which may involve a run-through with the Training Director or instructor. The club does not offer behavior modification for aggressive dogs.

Pricing Summary

The fee for an 8-week Puppy, Pre-Basic or Basic class is $144 for the general public ($72 for members). Classes meet for 45 minutes once a week for eight weeks.

Policies

The club requires all students to attest that their dogs have received age-appropriate vaccinations. For Puppy, Pre-Basic, or Basic classes, proof of vaccination must be shown at the first class meeting. Acceptable proof includes a veterinarian’s certificate, invoice, photocopy of vaccine vial, breeder-supplied puppy health card, or titers for adult dogs. A letter from a veterinarian is required for medically necessary exemptions. New York State law requires rabies vaccination for dogs over 4 months of age.

The club does not tolerate aggressive dogs in classes and does not offer behavior modification for them. Dogs deemed dangerous or uncontrollable will be excused, with pro-rated refunds. Female dogs in season are not permitted in the building, but handlers should still attend to watch the lesson. Only one handler is allowed in the ring with the dog; family members or friends may watch from outside the ring. Handlers should not be substituted without instructor permission.

The club uses reward-based training and flat-buckle collars. Electronic (shock) collars are not recommended or permitted in the building. Students must agree to a liability release, acknowledging the risks of dog training and waiving claims against the club and its affiliates for injury or damage.

The Syracuse Obedience Training Club, Inc. is an AKC-licensed obedience club and a New York State-registered 501(c)3 educational corporation, organized not-for-profit. Established in 1960, it is one of the oldest and largest dog obedience training clubs in the Northeast, boasting over 300 members.

SOTC offers public education through classes and other activities, conducting business, classes, and hosting regional competitions and public events at its 19,000+ square foot facility at 6392 Deere Road in Syracuse. This climate-controlled facility features special mat and turf flooring and extensive sound dampening.

The club’s approach is to train the owner to train their dog, using reward-based methods such as food, toys, play, and praise. Instructors are volunteers, many of whom compete with their own dogs in various sports. The club does not tolerate aggressive dogs or offer behavior modification for them.

Classes are typically group classes with 6 to 8 students, running for 8 weeks, four times a year (starting in March, June, September, and January). Most classes are held on weeknights after 5:30 PM, with a few daytime offerings and generally no weekend classes. Basic obedience classes are offered at Puppy, Pre-Basic, and Basic levels, with Basic being a prerequisite for most other advanced classes.

The club’s mission includes promoting dog obedience, disseminating knowledge, conducting classes, encouraging judge training, and holding AKC-regulated trials and events. They emphasize cooperation and good sportsmanship among members.

Accomplishments

The Syracuse Obedience Training Club, Inc. was established in 1960, making it one of the oldest and largest dog obedience training clubs in the Northeast. It is an AKC-licensed obedience club and a New York State-registered 501(c)3 educational corporation (organized not-for-profit). The club has over 300 members.

How to Get Started!

Students new to SOTC and new to competition typically begin with Puppy, Pre-Basic, and/or Basic classes, depending on the age of the dog. Even with prior training elsewhere, a refresher with SOTC Basic is strongly recommended if a class lists SOTC Basic as a prerequisite.

Students new to SOTC but with competition experience may request permission to enroll in competition obedience, rally, freestyle, flyball, or agility classes. They may be asked to meet with the Training Director or class instructor for a run-through. Information on how to register for classes is available on the website.