Business Details
50+ Years
experience
AKC-Sanctioned Dog Training in Benicia
The Vallejo Dog Training Club (VDTC) is a California-based non-profit organization dedicated to advancing humane dog training methods and fostering the human-canine bond. Established in 1948, we are a sanctioned member of the American Kennel Club and serve dog owners of all experience levels, from casual pet owners to competitive handlers. Our mission emphasizes science-based, reward-focused training techniques that prioritize animal welfare, using food, toys, and praise to motivate learning while avoiding force, intimidation, or pain. We offer structured classes for pet dogs and competition-level training in obedience, rally, agility, and conformation, with a strong emphasis on reducing fear and stress in canine learners. Our experienced instructors hold certifications from recognized organizations and have decades of combined expertise in dog training, including titles earned in AKC events.We host annual trials, workshops, and community events to promote responsible dog ownership and sportsmanship. Our facility in Benicia provides a welcoming environment for dogs of all breeds and mixed breeds, with strict equipment guidelines ensuring safe, ethical training practices. We maintain transparency in operations, welcoming new members through an accessible application process and monthly meetings. Our commitment to education extends to training judges and disseminating knowledge about modern training methodologies to enhance both handler skills and canine well-being.
Services
Obedience Training
Rally Competitions
Agility Workshops
Conformation Classes
Puppy Manners
Canine Good Citizen
FCAT Trials
Training Seminars
Details
- Year established: 1948
Highlights and features
- We've provided dog training expertise since 1948 with AKC-sanctioned programs
- Our certified trainers use science-based, fear-free training methodologies
- We offer comprehensive programs from basic obedience to competition preparation
- Our instructors have earned multiple titles in AKC obedience and rally events
- We maintain strict ethical standards prohibiting aversive training equipment
Associations and certifications
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
Services
Obedience Training
Structured obedience programs develop essential skills in dogs through positive reinforcement techniques. Our classes focus on building reliable commands, improving focus, and strengthening handler-dog communication. Programs cater to both casual pet owners seeking better control and competitors preparing for AKC trials.
Rally Competitions
AKC-sanctioned rally events teach dogs to perform sequential exercises with precision and enthusiasm. Our training prepares teams for competition while maintaining the joy of learning. Instructors emphasize pattern recognition and consistent performance under varied conditions.
Agility Workshops
Obstacle course training develops physical coordination and mental engagement. We teach safe navigation of jumps, tunnels, and contact equipment while building trust between handler and dog through clear communication.
Conformation Classes
Specialized conformation instruction prepares dogs for AKC breed competitions. We focus on proper movement, stacking posture, and ring presentation while maintaining the dog's natural gait and temperament.
Puppy Manners
Early socialization and basic obedience foundation for puppies under 6 months. Our gentle approach introduces essential skills like house training, bite inhibition, and polite greetings in a stress-free environment.
People
Jeri Shipley
President
Jeri leads our club with extensive experience in dog training and competition. She ensures our programs maintain high standards while remaining accessible to new members and their dogs.
Trish Iriye
Certified Trainer
CPDT-KA certified trainer specializing in force-free methods. Trish teaches beginning manners and CGC classes while operating a local dog walking and training business.
Teresa Russell
Obedience Trainer
With decades of experience, Teresa has titled multiple Labrador Retrievers in obedience and agility. She offers expert guidance from puppy basics through advanced competition levels.
Joan Constantine
Rally Instructor
Joan pioneered rally training at VDTC and holds the first RAE title with her English Setter. She continues to develop successful competition teams through structured, positive instruction.
Marisa D'Souza
Website Manager
Marisa maintains our online presence to ensure accurate information about classes, events, and club operations remains accessible to current and prospective members.
Questions
What training methods does VDTC use?
We use reward-based methods focusing on positive reinforcement through food, toys, and praise while prohibiting aversive tools like e-collars.
Do you offer classes for all dog experience levels?
Yes, we provide programs ranging from beginner puppy classes to advanced competition training for AKC events.
What equipment is required for training sessions?
Dogs must wear flat collars, martingale collars, or harnesses - we do not allow choke chains, prong collars, or e-collars.
How can I become a club member?
Submit our membership application, attend a monthly meeting, and get approved by existing members to join our community.
What competitions do you host annually?
We organize obedience, rally, agility, and FCAT trials along with specialized workshops for dog handlers.
Reviews (2)
Matt McDevitt
Feb 29, 2020
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I primarily use their grooming facility and they are fantastic. Long haired sheepdog and they keep him pretty.
Lia Medina
May 08, 2019
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Trisha and her support staff are exceptional. My Great Pyrenees puppy and I received constructive training advice. The advice and feed back enriches my relationship with my dog because Trish encourages and teaches positive communication between myself and my dog. Relationship with a dog BEGINS with the owner. There will always be challenges. Kaipo and I have had three classes(Puppy social, Good Manners A & B) with Trisha at the Vallejo Dog Club.
In that short time we have learned how to incorporate dog training into/throughout our daily lives. Kaipo has also developed a self control that benifits his senior sister. He is still a puppy who approaches each day with rekindled enthusiasm which includes loving to dig but he knows were the dig areas are in the yard. Special appreciation to Adrian and all very helpful support staff. With gratitude.
In that short time we have learned how to incorporate dog training into/throughout our daily lives. Kaipo has also developed a self control that benifits his senior sister. He is still a puppy who approaches each day with rekindled enthusiasm which includes loving to dig but he knows were the dig areas are in the yard. Special appreciation to Adrian and all very helpful support staff. With gratitude.
