Valley Dog Sports LLC

Programs begin with BH 101 (Barn Hunt 101), a beginner class designed for new handlers and dogs. Progression includes group classes, private lessons, and workshops focused on specific skills like tunneling. Competitors can advance through levels with titles awarded by the Barn Hunt Association. Trials are held regularly for teams to test their skills. All programs emphasize handler-dog teamwork, with the dog leading the hunt and the handler learning to support them.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not listed on the website; interested clients are directed to the scheduling link for class and workshop rates.

Valley Dog Sports LLC is a Barn Hunt training and trial facility based in Newberg, Oregon, serving the Portland Metro and Willamette Valley areas. Founded in 2012, it was the first Barn Hunt club in the Pacific Northwest and continues under the leadership of Nancy Griffith, who took over in 2021 after the passing of founder Karla Sanders. The business specializes in Barn Hunt, a scent-work sport where dogs locate rats hidden in straw or hay bales within safe, aerated tubes. The program is designed for all dogs, including reactive ones, and emphasizes teamwork between handler and dog, with the dog leading the hunt. Training is offered through group classes, private lessons, and workshops, with a strong focus on positive, supportive methods that celebrate the dog’s natural instincts. The facility hosts regular Barn Hunt trials and provides a welcoming community for beginners and experienced teams alike.

Nancy Griffith specializes in working with reactive dogs, having started Barn Hunt with her own reactive dog, Grace, who became a beloved class demo dog. Other trainers, including Maarit Pulli, Robin Gerstenfeld, Marika Klein, and Kim Turner, bring diverse experience from competing and teaching across levels. The program is accessible to any breed or mix that can fit through an 18-inch tunnel, making it ideal for small, medium, and large dogs. Rats used are treated as beloved family pets in safe, humane conditions.

Valley Dog Sports offers a structured progression from BH 101 (beginner) to championship levels, with titles awarded by the Barn Hunt Association. The team fosters a joyful, encouraging environment where handlers often report their dogs finally finding a sport they can excel in.

Additional services include trial hosting, workshops on specific skills like tunneling, and foster dog introductions to the sport.

Accomplishments

Valley Dog Sports was the first Barn Hunt club in the Pacific Northwest, founded in 2012. Trainer Nancy Griffith took over in 2021 and continues Karla Sanders’ legacy of inclusive, supportive training. Trainer Robin Gerstenfeld’s dog Harper earned RATCHX2 and the Memorable Moments Award at a Pacific NW Barn Hunt Trial. Trainer Maarit Pulli’s dog Truman earned RATCH and multiple High In Class placements.

How to Get Started!

Beginners are encouraged to start with a Barn Hunt 101 class. Interested clients can view and register for classes through the scheduling link on the website.