Foundations
The essentials every dog needs to know first
Building Blocks
Adding duration, distance, and self-control
Teaching patience — hold position until released
A calming position that helps your dog relax and settle
Critical safety command — ignore food, trash, and hazards
Release whatever is in their mouth — no more wrestling matches
Real World Skills
Taking training out of the living room and into the real world
Loose leash walking — no more pulling on walks and trails
Go to a designated spot and stay — great for visitors and mealtimes
Pause at doors, intersections, and before meals
Calm down on cue — essential for patios, vet offices, and cars
Advanced
Off-leash reliability and emergency skills
Reliable recall at any off-leash park — the ultimate freedom command
Instant freeze from a distance — can prevent disaster
Walk past squirrels, dogs, and bikes without losing it
Calgary Training Resources
Sometimes you need professional help, and that's smart, not a failure. Here's how to find good, force-free training in Calgary.
Calgary Humane Society
Runs group classes for puppies, beginners, and reactive dogs, and it's a budget-friendly place to start. See calgaryhumane.ca.
Great for beginnersChoosing a Trainer
Look for a force-free, reward-based trainer, ideally one experienced with rescue dogs, and avoid anyone using fear, pain, or dominance. Our Calgary puppy class comparison weighs the local options.
How to chooseFear & Reactivity Help
For real fear, reactivity, or aggression, work with a qualified force-free trainer or a veterinary behaviourist. It's not a DIY project, and early help is worth it. Start with what reactivity actually is.
Get help earlyPractice Spots
Sue Higgins Park, Nose Hill, and Bowness Park are great low-distraction starting points for outdoor training.
Off-leash parksHaven't Adopted Yet?
Learning to train before you adopt is the smartest thing you can do. Browse available dogs when you're ready.
Browse Available Dogs →