Pup Scouts

Beginner Dog Obedience and Basic Manners Classes in Traverse City

Your dog (or puppy!) has already begun their lifelong journey of living and learning with you. Make sure you're both on the right track with the most up-to-date and compassionate training methods available!

A Happy, Well-Mannered Dog Starts Here

Whether you recently brought home a new puppy or are looking to build a better relationship with your adult dog, our beginner obedience and basic manners class provides the essential training foundations every dog needs. Pup Scouts at Barks and Rec in Traverse City offers a safe, supportive environment for dogs of all ages to learn and grow!

To get started, register for Pup Scouts and then watch our online orientation before attending your first class.

Is This Class Right for My Dog?

This six-week foundational dog training class is specifically designed for:

Puppies (16 weeks and older) ready to learn manners and life skills.
Adult dogs with little or no previous obedience training.
Newly adopted rescue dogs needing a confidence boost and training foundations

Note: For puppies under 16 weeks of age, check out our Pup Explorers (puppy socialization) class. Our group classes are not appropriate for dogs with aggression, reactivity, or severe anxiety. If you are struggling with these behaviors, please contact us to schedule a behavior consultation and private training first.

What You’ll Learn

Our curriculum focuses on life skills for every dog. We use positive reinforcement and force-free training methods to ensure you are teaching your dog in the most effective way possible, and that your dog loves the learning process!

Our Pup Scouts curriculum covers:

Focus and Engagement: teaching your dog to choose you over distractions.
Reliable Recall: building a strong "come when called" is important for your dog's safety.
Leash Manners: foundation leash skills for more enjoyable walks in Northern Michigan.
Stationary Skills: Sit, Down, Stay, and Place (settle on your mat).
Impulse Control: Leave It, polite greetings (no jumping!), and more.

Why Choose Barks and Rec?

Our classes are taught by skilled, certified trainers who are educated in everything from dog development to learning theory and behavior modification (and more)!
We use the most current and effective training methods, and never use fear, pain, or intimidation.
Small class sizes ensure you and your dog get the individual attention you deserve!

Ready to Get Started?

Click the button below to start your dog training journey and sign up for Pup Scouts at Barks and Rec in Traverse City today!