Dog playgroups

We offer a number of playgroups and socialization opportunities for your pet.  Playgroups are offered at our Golden Valley location.  Click here for our schedule.

Small Dog Playgroup is a mixed-age group for dogs that are 20 lbs. and under.

Puppy Playgroup is a group for puppies under 5 months of age. Small or shy puppies might feel more comfortable in our Featherweight group.

Featherweight Playgroup is a mixed-age group for dogs under 10 lbs.  Ocassionally we allow larger shy dogs into this group as well. 

Micro Playgroup is a mixed age group for dogs under 7 lbs.

Teen Puppy Playgroup is a group for adolescent dogs ages 5 to 12 months who play well with other dogs.  Due to the boisterous nature of adolescent play, this group is not appropriate for toy breeds.  Toy breeds are welcome at our small dog playgroups.

Yappy Hour is a mixed-age, all size group that we hold on some Friday evenings in the Auditorium at Golden Valley. We have an area for small dogs or dogs that may need a break. This can be a rowdy group, and may be too overwhelming for some dogs, so ask your instructor if this group is appropriate for your dog.

Some reminders: 

Staff supervision is an important element of our playgroups. We want to educate you about appropriate play and keep your pet safe. Please follow all staff directions. 

All dogs coming to Playgroups must arrive and be checked in within the first 20 minutes of the session. Dogs arriving after the first 20 minutes will not be allowed in. This is to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all dogs that come to play.

If it is your first time to a Playgroup, please arrive a few minutes early in order to have your dog’s vaccinations checked and fill out the necessary paperwork.  You can print and fill out our waiver ahead of time.  All dogs must bring proof of current rabies, distemper/parvo, and bordetella vaccinations. 

Pottying your dog before playgroup is essential! We recommend toileting your dog before you get in the car, and also after you arrive. Leave enough time for your pet to relax enough to eliminate, using our Pet Exercise areas only. Feeding your pet after playgroup rather than before can reduce the number of poop accidents. Owners of dogs that mark must bring their pets in a belly band or sani-panties. We will stop all play while you clean up after your pet’s accident. Help us keep accidents to a minimum.

Staff dogs are dogs that belong to our instructors or volunteers, have outstanding social skills with other dogs and have shown an aptitude for helping other dogs with developing social skills learn how to behave in a group. These dogs may be large, medium, or small, but they are there because they serve an important function.

 Questions:

Training School
Phone: (763) 489-2217
Online: submit dog training school questions here