Vallejo Dog Training Club

VDTC offers structured, ongoing group classes in multiple levels: Beginning Manners, Puppy, Canine Good Citizen, Rally Obedience, and Competition Obedience. Classes meet weekly, with specific time slots (e.g., Advanced Obedience on Wednesdays at 7:00 PM). Each class focuses on progressive skill-building using positive reinforcement. Training is conducted at their facility with structured curricula and handbooks provided to owners. Classes are designed for dogs of all ages and breeds, with progression from basic to advanced titles.

Pricing Summary

Group classes cost $60 for a 4-session package. Annual membership is $25. Training sessions are offered in structured packages with no mention of private lesson pricing or hourly rates.

Policies

Dogs must use flat collars, martingales, or harnesses—no prong or choke collars allowed. Participants must not attend class if experiencing or exposed to COVID-19 symptoms, with refunds offered in such cases. New visitors must complete a one-time standard disclaimer form before using the facility. Crates are limited and should be used only when necessary; dogs may be crated in vehicles with adequate ventilation.

Vallejo Dog Training Club (VDTC) is a nonprofit dog training organization based in Benicia, CA, established in 1948 and sanctioned by the American Kennel Club. They offer group dog training classes using science-based, positive reinforcement methods exclusively—no force, intimidation, choke chains, prong collars, or e-collars are permitted. Classes are held at their facility and include Pet Dog Manners, Puppy Training, Canine Good Citizen, Rally Obedience, Competition Obedience, and Dogs Can Dance. Their trainers are certified professionals with extensive experience in AKC events, including titles in Rally, Obedience, Agility, and Conformation. VDTC emphasizes building strong human-dog bonds through fun, stress-free training that encourages dogs to think and earn rewards. They also host AKC trials, workshops, and community events, and welcome all breeds and sizes, from mutts to champions.

Trainers include Trish Iriye (CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified), who teaches puppy and manners classes; Judy Gamet, who specializes in Dogs Can Dance; Teresa Russell, an expert in advanced obedience and competition training with multiple titles on Labs and Jack Russells; and Joan Constantine, a Rally pioneer who earned the first RAE title for an English Setter. Support staff and volunteers enhance the learning environment with consistent, positive guidance.

VDTC offers annual membership for $25, which grants access to classes, events, and community activities. They provide detailed class handbooks, high-quality training treats, and a supportive atmosphere where owners learn to communicate effectively with their dogs.

Accomplishments

Trish Iriye is a CPDT-KA and Fear Free Certified Trainer. Teresa Russell has earned CDs, CDXs, and 2 UDs on eight Labrador Retrievers and one mixed breed, plus agility and hunting titles. Joan Constantine earned the first-ever RAE (Rally Advanced Excellent) title for an English Setter in 2007. Judy Gamet developed a dance-based training method called Motion Dynamics applied to dog training. All trainers have extensive experience in AKC events and have titled multiple dogs in obedience, rally, and agility.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can review class offerings on the website, choose a class, and register via the online store. New members must complete a membership application, attend a meeting for approval, and pay the $25 annual fee to access classes. No formal initial consultation is advertised, but inquiries can be made via email or phone.