vhoc

Group classes are offered in obedience (Beginning Competitive and Open/Utility), agility (Skills & Drills I and II), and scent work (Beginning, Intermediate, and Continuing). Obedience classes focus on AKC title preparation with structured exercises like heeling, recall, and retrieves. Agility classes build course navigation skills with customized drills. Scent work classes develop drive, independence, and handler handling skills. All classes require prerequisites based on prior training experience. Sessions run weekly for 6 weeks, with specific times and locations at private facilities.

Pricing Summary

Pricing is not publicly listed; classes are 6-week sessions with 6–8 working teams per class. Contact instructors directly for enrollment details and fees.

Policies

Drop-ins and spectators must receive permission from the instructor or registrar before attending a class. Classes have strict limits on working teams and require advance enrollment. No cancellation or rescheduling policies are explicitly stated.

VHOC is a dog training club based in the San Fernando Valley that offers group classes in obedience, agility, and scent work for dog owners seeking competitive and skill-based training. The club provides structured, instructor-led classes at private locations across Simi Valley, Reseda, Moorpark, and Chatsworth, with class sizes limited to ensure individual attention. Instructors like Patti Rovtar, Olga Chaiko, Jinny Chow, and Melissa Casanova guide teams through AKC obedience titles (Novice, Open, Utility), agility skill-building from novice to advanced levels, and scent work from beginner to advanced stages. Classes are open to non-members, and the club has a strong history of competitive success, including multiple Top Dog Competition wins with teams achieving top placements in regional obedience events. The training approach emphasizes engagement, enjoyment, and proficiency using a balanced method that includes positive reinforcement and structured guidance. The club also hosts annual events like AKC Agility Trials and a Holiday Party, fostering community among dog owners.

VHOC does not offer private in-home training, boarding, grooming, or day care services. Training is exclusively group-based at private facilities, and all classes require advance enrollment with limited spots. The club supports dogs of all ages and breeds, with prerequisites tailored to each class level to ensure safety and progress.

The organization is deeply rooted in the Southern California obedience community, having competed in the Top Dog event since 1958 and consistently fielding teams that earn high honors despite limited numbers. Their instructors are experienced competitors who focus on building reliable skills for competition and real-world reliability.

Accomplishments

VHOC has won the Southern California Dog Obedience Council’s Top Dog Competition multiple times, including first place in 2013 and top placements in 2014, 2015, and 2016. The club has competed since 1958 and regularly fields teams in regional obedience trials. Instructors are experienced competitors with dogs achieving AKC titles in obedience and agility.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients should review class descriptions and prerequisites, then contact the listed instructor via email to enroll. No formal evaluation is mentioned; enrollment is based on meeting class prerequisites.