This Seminar is Free to All !

This is an educational seminar intended to cover dog training theory, tips, cautions, and how dogs work and learn...the FUN way! 

• Why are harnesses not good for obedience but good for other things?
• What's with all the different types of leashes & collars?
• Why are some treats better than others?
• Why do dogs pull when they're on a leash?
• How long should I really train my dog every day?

We'll give you all the answers and hands on practice on skills you'll need as the handler of your dog. We ask you NOT bring your dog because we'll also have several demo dogs at all levels to give you a visual on training techniques. You'll get to meet and chat with your instructor and others.

Priority seating will be for those registering for MDTC Puppy, Basic, and/or Intermediate Obedience classes in Session 2026-01 (starting the week of 1/5/26). If you're NOT registering for those classes but still wish to attend, please contact the Registrar, Cat Vines (757-298-0113) to secure a seat. 

This class is for those teams learning basics skills and training techniques to compete in Open Obedience. We'll refine skills such as Broad and High jumps, retrieving at greater distance as well as expancding the dogs abilty to follow signal exercises. 

Prerequisites: 1) Dog must be at least 1yr old, 2) have not competed at the Open/Preferred Open level or above, 3) have at least a Beginner Novice (BN) title or one leg toward their Novice (CD) titles, 4) currently retrieving the dumbell for handler, or 5) have prior approval required for registration. Handlers will bring a good fitting dumbbell. Multiple rings will be used.

Note: No 2nd dogs/same handler will be accepted for this class.  We do understand many of you may be traveling from quite a distance with multiple dogs training that day. You're welcome to bring them into the building with you; however, you are only permitted to work the one registered for the class. Please contact the Training Director, Deanna Bullock, 757-778-7608 for approvals or questions.

This class is for those teams learning basics skills and training techniques to compete in Open Obedience. We'll refine skills such as Broad and High jumps, retrieving at greater distance as well as expancding the dogs abilty to follow signal exercises. 

Prerequisites: 1) Dog must be at least 1yr old, 2) have not competed at the Open/Preferred Open level or above, 3) have at least a Beginner Novice (BN) title or one leg toward their Novice (CD) titles, 4) currently retrieving the dumbell for handler, or 5) have prior approval required for registration. Handlers will bring a good fitting dumbbell. Multiple rings will be used.

Note: No 2nd dogs/same handler will be accepted for this class.  We do understand many of you may be traveling from quite a distance with multiple dogs training that day. You're welcome to bring them into the building with you; however, you are only permitted to work the one registered for the class. Please contact the Training Director, Deanna Bullock, 757-778-7608 for approvals or questions.

Instructional class covering rules and regulations, ring procedures, and a critiqued run thru of each dog. This class is for dogs getting ready to show in BN or in Novice and dogs will need a reliable recall.

Prerequisites: Dogs should be working on off lead heeling and recall.

Instructional class covering rules and regulations, ring procedures, and a critiqued run thru of each dog. This class is for dogs getting ready to show in BN or in Novice and dogs will need a reliable recall.

Prerequisites: Dogs should be working on off lead heeling and recall.

This class is the second in a series, designed for dogs that need a little extra space to be comfortable – and for handlers new to this sport. We'll introduce odor (birch) and continue to build problem-solving and foundation skills. 

Please bring yummy treats and your enthusiasm. Dogs must crate between runs to allow them to relax and learn while they rest.

Prerequisites: Intro to Scent Work. Please contact the instructor or Training Director with questions.

This class is the second in a series, designed for dogs that need a little extra space to be comfortable – and for handlers new to this sport. We'll introduce odor (birch) and continue to build problem-solving and foundation skills. 

Please bring yummy treats and your enthusiasm. Dogs must crate between runs to allow them to relax and learn while they rest.

Prerequisites: Intro to Scent Work. Please contact the instructor or Training Director with questions.

Practice Advanced/Intermediate/Excellent courses  Performances will be critiqued to aid in practice. Directed practice with individual signs available. Note: Students expected to help in course setup and take down. 

Prerequisites: Handler and dog must be familiar with Advanced (this includes Intermediate) exercises AND have earned at least a Rally Novice title. Exceptions only with permission of Instructor.