Training
Here at Rotten Dog our training program is designed to support dogs and their people at every stage of their journey, from playful beginners learning the basics to competitive teams working toward advanced goals. We focus on building solid foundations, clear communication, and confident working habits through science-based training and thoughtful, individualized coaching.
Whether you’re looking to strengthen everyday skills, explore new sports, or grow as a team, we offer a variety of classes and private lesson options to meet your needs. Our programs emphasize understanding the “why” behind each skill, helping owners feel informed, supported, and empowered. Above all, we aim to make training approachable, enjoyable, and meaningful for both ends of the leash.
Pricing
On-Site Private Lessons
30 minutes — $65
60 minutes — $105
Travel Private Lessons (off-site obedience, scentwork, etc.)
60 minutes — $125
In-Home Training
$150/hour
An additional travel fee applies for locations more than 15 miles from Rotten Dog Sports Lodge.
Group Classes
$185–$225
(Pricing varies based on class type, level, and class size.)
What We Offer:
Basic Training and Manners
Have you ever wished your dog could settle politely at home and accompany you confidently out in the world? Our Basic Training and Manners program focuses on building solid everyday skills and clear communication between you and your dog. We work on foundational behaviors like polite leash walking, attention, impulse control, and reliable cues that make life easier in every setting. Using science based methods and thoughtful, well structured training plans, we help dogs and owners build confidence, understanding, and great habits that last.
Once dogs have a solid skill set in easier environments, we love to take those skills on the road to proof them in real world settings. To support this, we offer trainer-guided outings to practice manners, obedience, and focus in public. We also offer AKC Canine Good Citizen testing, as well as the advanced CGC Urban and AKC Community Canine titles, for teams ready to showcase their progress.
Canine Swim Lessons
Our Swim Lessons are designed to help dogs learn how to swim safely and confidently. We focus on teaching proper water entry and exit, developing strong swimming mechanics, and helping each dog feel comfortable in and around the water. Using clear guidance, encouragement, and thoughtful instruction, we tailor each session to the dog’s individual comfort level and experience. Whether your dog is brand new to the water or looking to build confidence and skill, our lessons provide a safe, supportive environment to learn and thrive.
These skills not only help dogs stay safer around pools, lakes, and other bodies of water at home or on adventures, but they also open the door to new possibilities. If your pup falls in love with swimming, they may even be ready to dip their paws into the exciting world of dock diving!
Dog Sports
Scentwork
Scentwork is a fun, rewarding activity that taps into your dog’s natural ability to use their nose. Suitable for dogs of all ages, breeds, abilities, and experience levels, this sport gives dogs a chance to channel their innate scenting abilities in a purposeful, engaging way. It fosters confidence, independence, problem solving skills, and a deeper connection between dog and handler.
Our scentwork program is designed to help dogs develop strong search skills through thoughtful, structured foundations. We begin with searching for primary reinforcement (your dog’s favorite snacks or toy), teaching dogs how to hunt with purpose, build confidence, and work independently before introducing target odors. Handlers learn odor theory (how odor moves and behaves in different environments) and how to support their dogs with intentional, effective handling.
Once teams have a solid foundation in hunting and communication, we transition to odor and gradually introduce more complex search challenges. This approach creates confident dogs, informed handlers, and capable teams. Whether you’re brand new to scentwork, building skills for competition, or already trialing, we’d love to help you explore this wonderful sport!
Dock Diving
Want to introduce your dog to the exciting world of dock diving? Come make a splash with us at Rotten Dog! We start by teaching the fundamentals of safe, confident water work before moving on to on-the-dock skills. Dogs learn proper pool entry and exit, strong swimming technique, and overall comfort around the water. As they progress, we help them build confidence on the dock, refine their jump form, and coach handlers on their throws and timing so both ends of the leash learn to work as a coordinated team.
We offer training in both NADD and DockDogs disciplines, including Extreme Vertical, Air Retrieve, and Speed Retrieve, giving dogs the opportunity to explore everything from big air distance jumps to height- and speed-based challenges. Dock diving provides excellent physical exercise, mental stimulation, and a thrilling outlet for active dogs. Whether you’re trying the sport for fun or preparing for competition, we tailor each session to your dog’s pace, ability, and enthusiasm, helping every team make a splash.
Barn Hunt
Barn Hunt is the ultimate outlet for dogs who love to sniff, explore, climb, and solve puzzles. Dogs search through straw, climb hay bales, tunnel through bales, and use their nose to find the star of the game — a rat! (And don’t worry, no rats are harmed! Our pet rats are fully protected inside secure PVC tubes or quarry boxes, and dogs never make any contact with them.)
During each lesson we teach dogs how to search confidently, work independently, and navigate the environment with ease. As they progress, we add more challenges: longer tunnels, trickier hides, and more advanced problem solving to prepare teams for real Barn Hunt trials.
From curious beginners to seasoned sniffers, Barn Hunt is an exciting, enriching activity for any dog who loves to use their nose and put their energy to work in a fun, purposeful way.
Agility
Agility is all about fun, movement, and teamwork! Dogs learn to navigate jumps, tunnels, and obstacles while building confidence and coordination along the way. We start with the basics: body awareness games, foundation skills, and safe introductions to equipment to help you and your dog grow into a smooth, connected team.
Our approach keeps learning positive, structured, and supportive so dogs of all skill levels can enjoy the sport. Whether you’re hoping to compete or simply want a fun, enriching activity, agility is a fantastic way to burn energy and build your bond.
Additional Sports & Activities
We also offer a variety of other sports for teams looking to broaden their experience or try something new. For dogs who love to hunt and explore, NASDA Urban Locating, Trailing & Locating, and Shed Hunt are fantastic options where dogs learn to navigate realistic search scenarios and take on meaningful nose-driven challenges.
For teams interested in building confidence, connection, and teamwork, we also offer Trick Dog and Canine Parkour. Both help develop body awareness, coordination, and clear communication while giving dogs a fun outlet to show off their skills.
Whether you’re preparing for competition or simply want a new adventure with your dog, these sports provide exciting opportunities to grow together, learn together, and have a great time as a team.
