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Greater Columbia Obedience Club, Inc.

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  CLASS CALENDAR & REGISTRATION  

Sign-up for GCOC Classes using the event registrations below!

GCOC holds classes year round, with a break in late December for the holidays. Most classes are scheduled on weeknights, but occasionally daytime and weekend classes are offered when instructors are available.

Our classes are all taught by volunteer instructors who give generously of their time and energy.

Registration online and payment in advance is required to attend any class. See GCOC's Refund Policy.

Upcoming events

    • 20 Mar 2024
    • 24 Apr 2024
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 4

    Registration opens for members Feb. 17th.
    Registration Opens for non-members Feb 19th.  

    Basic Skills - Evening

    Basic Skills is designed for dogs 6 months and older. This class will cover getting the dog’s attention, impulse control exercises such as wait and leave it, relaxing calmly around other dogs & people, and confidence with new experiences. Handlers will learn how to teach their dog controlled walking on a leash; sit, down, come and stay commands using the positive training techniques demonstrated in class.  The primary goal of this class will be to develop a happy, well-mannered family companion and create a positive relationship between the handler and dog.

    Length: 6 weeks

    GCOC Members:$100.00

    General Registration: $165.00

    Instructors:  Mary Katherine Kearsey

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule classes.

    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process. GCOC does reserve the right to excuse any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.

    NOTE:  GCOC follows CDC guidelines. At this time masks are optional. We will adjust our policy according to the level of the virus in the area. Thank you for your cooperation. 

    The Greater Columbia Obedience Club will refund fees paid for a class, minus a $15 administration fee, if cancellation occurs at least five days prior to the first day of class. If cancellation is requested after that period, but the available slot can be filled from the class wait list, the payment minus the $15 administration fee, will be refunded. No refund will be paid if the slot cannot be filled, or the class begins. GCOC recognizes that extenuating circumstances may occur. In this event, an application may be made to the Training Director for a review of the situationSuch occurrences as a bitch in heat, death in the family, illness of canine or trainer will be considered.

    • 20 Mar 2024
    • 24 Apr 2024
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility; 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 4

    Rally Intro Novice

    Registration for members on Feb. 17th
    Registration for pending members Feb 19th
    Sorry, no non-member registration available.

    This class is designed to be taken multiple times because the skills needed for rally are not learned in 6 weeks. 

    This class is designed to teach the skills required to appropriately perform individual signs. The focus will be on learning skills, not particular signs.  

    Please bring plenty of treats, a toy, and a crate. There will be times when the humans are working solo, so dogs will need to be crated.  

    Pre-requisite: Completion of GCOC obedience classes, at least through Intermediate and preferably through Advanced, or by instructor permission

    Instructor: Kathy Evans

     If you have any questions about meeting the pre-requisites for this class, contact Kathy Evans at gcocotd2024@gmail.com

     

     

    • 16 Apr 2024
    • 30 Apr 2024
    Register

    The GCOC Board of Directors is requesting donations from the members to be used as a memorial gift to Pawmetto Lifeline, a charity that cares for and facilitates adoption of unhomed dogs. This charity is dear to Gayle Mitchiner and her family. We believe it would be a powerful message of support to Mitch's family and a fitting recoginition for his many years of suport and leadership in our club.

    • 30 Apr 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
    • 947 SStadium Rd, Columbia, SC
    • 7
    Register

    Registration Open

    Evaluation for all levels of Trick Dog titles done by Brandy Dunaway and Wanda Austin

    • 30 Apr 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
    • 947 S Stadium Rd, Columbia, SC
    • 5
    Register

    Registration Open

    According to AKC, “Canine Good Citizen" is a 
    10-skill test that teaches good manners to dogs and responsible dog ownership to their owners. CGC is open to all dogs–purebred and mixed breed. There are no age minimums or limits for participating in the Canine Good Citizen program, because yes, you can always teach an old dog new tricks!”

    Evaluator: Renee Graham

    Canine Good Citizen Test Items

    Test 1 : Accepting a friendly stranger

    Test 2 : Sitting politely for petting

    Test 3 : Appearance and grooming

    Test 4: Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead)

    Test 5: Walking through a crowd

    Test 6: Sit and down on cue and stay in place

    Test 7: Coming when called

    Test 8: Reaction to another dog

    Test 9: Reaction to distraction

    Test 10: Supervised separation


    • 06 May 2024
    • 17 Jun 2024
    • 7 sessions
    • GCOC Small Room
    • 0
    Registration is closed


    • 07 May 2024
    • 28 May 2024
    • 4 sessions
    • GCOC Building 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 7
    Register

    Engagement

    This is a 4-week class, and each class will last an hour and a half.

    This class is designed to lay the foundation for achieving engagement in different environments. We will be teaching, step-by-step, the habits of acclimation, attention, and desire to work between both dog and handler. Alongside engagement, we use and teach techniques for achieving an appropriate state of mind to learn and work. Our teaching format is suited best for handlers who have never taught engagement before, dogs that struggle to engage around distractions or in new environments, handlers seeking to build or refine their mechanics, and/or dogs with non-aggressive disruptive behaviors that prevent learning in regular group settings.

    Please note, crating is required. When you and your dog are not working, you are asked to watch and learn from other dog-handler teams. Space will be available for indoor crating, or you may secure your dog in your vehicle. 

    If you have any questions, please contact the instructors for this class, Bailey Howe - Bailey.k.howe@gmail.com and Courtney Hofacre - courtneyhofacre@gmail.com

    Instructors:  Courtney Hofacre and Bailey Howe

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel classes.

    NOTE:  GCOC follows CDC guidelines. At this time masks are not required. We will adjust our policy according to the level of the virus in the area. Thank you for your cooperation. 

    The Greater Columbia Obedience Club will refund fees paid for a class, minus a $15 administration fee, if cancellation occurs at least five days prior to the first day of class. If cancellation is requested after that period, but the available slot can be filled from the class wait list, the payment minus the $15 administration fee, will be refunded. No refund will be paid if the slot cannot be filled, or the class begins. GCOC recognizes that extenuating circumstances may occur. In this event, an application may be made to the Training Director for a review of the situationSuch occurrences as a bitch in heat, death in the family, or illness of canine or trainer will be considered.

    • 13 May 2024
    • 17 Jun 2024
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 3
    Register

    Registration opens for members on April 1
    Non-members on April 3

    Intermediate Skills - Evening

    Intermediate Skills is designed for dogs and handlers who have successfully completed Basic Skills class, or the equivalent. Verify that you and your dog can do the skills from the basic skills class here: Class Expectations page (gcoc.net) 

    The Intermediate Skills class will work on deepening and polishing the skills learned at the Basic level, including loose leash walking, attention/focus, impulse control, recalls, stays, and other skills.  It will introduce controlled distractions to allow your dog to perform skills beyond their backyard.  And finally, the class will cover all the exercise of the Canine Good Citizen class.

    The primary goal of this class will be to continue developing a happy, well-mannered family companion with emphasis on becoming a good canine citizen of the community.

    It could be helpful to crate your dog in this class.  Feel free to bring one.

    Prerequisite: Basic Skills or equivalent skills with the permission of the instructor. If you have a question contact GCOC.

    Length: 6 weeks

    GCOC Members: $100.00

    General Registration: $165.00

    Payment required upon registration

    Instructors: Kathy Evans

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel classes.

    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process. GCOC does reserve the right to excuse or recommend another type class for  any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.

    NOTE:  GCOC follows CDC guidelines. At this time masks are optional. We will adjust our policy according to the level of the virus in the area. Thank you for your cooperation. 

    The Greater Columbia Obedience Club will refund fees paid for a class, minus a $15 administration fee, if cancellation occurs at least five days prior to the first day of class. If cancellation is requested after that period, but the available slot can be filled from the class wait list, the payment minus the $15 administration fee, will be refunded. No refund will be paid if the slot cannot be filled, or the class begins. GCOC recognizes that extenuating circumstances may occur. In this event, an application may be made to the Training Director for a review of the situation. Such occurrences as a bitch in heat, death in the family illness of canine or trainer will be considered.





    • 13 May 2024
    • 17 Jun 2024
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 2
    Register

    Registration opens for members April 1.
    Registration Opens for non-members April 3.  

    Basic Skills - Evening

    Basic Skills is designed for dogs 6 months and older. This class will cover getting the dog’s attention, impulse control exercises such as wait and leave it, relaxing calmly around other dogs & people, and confidence with new experiences. Handlers will learn how to teach their dog controlled walking on a leash; sit, down, come and stay commands using the positive training techniques demonstrated in class.  The primary goal of this class will be to develop a happy, well-mannered family companion and create a positive relationship between the handler and dog.

    Length: 6 weeks

    GCOC Members:$100.00

    General Registration: $165.00

    Instructors:  Mary Katherine Kearsey

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule classes.

    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process. GCOC does reserve the right to excuse any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.

    NOTE:  GCOC follows CDC guidelines. At this time masks are optional. We will adjust our policy according to the level of the virus in the area. Thank you for your cooperation. 

    The Greater Columbia Obedience Club will refund fees paid for a class, minus a $15 administration fee, if cancellation occurs at least five days prior to the first day of class. If cancellation is requested after that period, but the available slot can be filled from the class wait list, the payment minus the $15 administration fee, will be refunded. No refund will be paid if the slot cannot be filled, or the class begins. GCOC recognizes that extenuating circumstances may occur. In this event, an application may be made to the Training Director for a review of the situationSuch occurrences as a bitch in heat, death in the family, illness of canine or trainer will be considered.

    • 14 May 2024
    • 18 Jun 2024
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Rd.
    • 3
    Register

    Registration for members begins April 1.
    Registration for non-members begins April 3.

    Puppy Kindergarten - DAYTIME (11 am) 

    Puppy Kindergarten is designed for dogs 12 weeks to 6 months of age. This class will cover: gaining the puppy’s attention, impulse control for puppies, learning to relax around other dogs & people, basic commands, leash manners, and puppy safety issues. In addition to basic skills, confidence and manageability with new experiences will also be introduced. Other topics as appropriate will also be covered. The primary emphasis of this class will be to develop a positive relationship between the puppy and family members.  This class WILL qualify for AKC Star Puppy certification but you must attend ALL sessions.

    You will need to bring your puppy's vaccine records to the first session.                        

    Your registration is not secured until it is paid for.  Please pay online.

    Prerequisite: None

    Length: 6 weeks

    Instructors: Jennifer Wheeler & Rusty

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule classes.

    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process. GCOC does reserve the right to excuse any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.

    NOTE:  GCOC follows CDC guidelines. At this time masks are not required. We will adjust our policy according to the level of the virus in the area. Thank you for your cooperation. 

    The Greater Columbia Obedience Club will refund fees paid for a class, minus a $15 administration fee, if cancellation occurs at least five days prior to the first day of class. If cancellation is requested after that period, but the available slot can be filled from the class wait list, the payment minus the $15 administration fee, will be refunded. No refund will be paid if the slot cannot be filled, or the class begins. GCOC recognizes that extenuating circumstances may occur. In this event, an application may be made to the Training Director for a review of the situationSuch occurrences as a bitch in heat, death in the family illness of canine or trainer will be considered.

     
    • 15 May 2024
    • 19 Jun 2024
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 6
    Register

    Registration opens for members on April 1
    Non-members on April 3

    Intermediate Skills - Evening

    Intermediate Skills is designed for dogs and handlers who have successfully completed Basic Skills class, or the equivalent. Verify that you and your dog can do the skills from the basic skills class here: Class Expectations page (gcoc.net) 

    The Intermediate Skills class will work on deepening and polishing the skills learned at the Basic level, including loose leash walking, attention/focus, impulse control, recalls, stays, and other skills.  It will introduce controlled distractions to allow your dog to perform skills beyond their backyard.  And finally, the class will cover all the exercise of the Canine Good Citizen class.

    The primary goal of this class will be to continue developing a happy, well-mannered family companion with emphasis on becoming a good canine citizen of the community.

    It could be helpful to crate your dog in this class.  Feel free to bring one.

    Prerequisite: Basic Skills or equivalent skills with the permission of the instructor. If you have a question contact GCOC.

    Length: 6 weeks

    GCOC Members: $100.00

    General Registration: $165.00

    Payment required upon registration

    Instructor: Justine Borghello and Assistant Wanda Austin

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel classes.

    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process. GCOC does reserve the right to excuse or recommend another type class for  any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.

    NOTE:  GCOC follows CDC guidelines. At this time masks are optional. We will adjust our policy according to the level of the virus in the area. Thank you for your cooperation. 

    The Greater Columbia Obedience Club will refund fees paid for a class, minus a $15 administration fee, if cancellation occurs at least five days prior to the first day of class. If cancellation is requested after that period, but the available slot can be filled from the class wait list, the payment minus the $15 administration fee, will be refunded. No refund will be paid if the slot cannot be filled, or the class begins. GCOC recognizes that extenuating circumstances may occur. In this event, an application may be made to the Training Director for a review of the situation. Such occurrences as a bitch in heat, death in the family illness of canine or trainer will be considered.





    • 15 May 2024
    • 19 Jun 2024
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility; 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 5
    Register

    Registration Open

    Tricks - Advanced/Performer

    Ready to take your tricks to a whole new level? Maybe your dog is ready to join the circus or make their movie debut! This class will be focused on teaching advanced and performer level tricks to help you earn advanced levels of AKC Trick titles. 


    Prereq: experience with novice and intermediate level tricks, marker training and basic obedience. 



    Review checklists below:

    Advanced Checklist

    Performer checklist

    Instructors: Justine Borghello and Wanda Austin 


    NOTE:  GCOC follows CDC guidelines. At this time masks are required. We will adjust our policy according to the level of the virus in the area. Thank you for your cooperation. 

     





    • 21 May 2024
    • 25 Jun 2024
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 4
    Register

    Registration opens for members April 1.
    Registration Opens for non-members April 3.  

    Basic Skills - Evening

    Basic Skills is designed for dogs 6 months and older. This class will cover getting the dog’s attention, impulse control exercises such as wait and leave it, relaxing calmly around other dogs & people, and confidence with new experiences. Handlers will learn how to teach their dog controlled walking on a leash; sit, down, come and stay commands using the positive training techniques demonstrated in class.  The primary goal of this class will be to develop a happy, well-mannered family companion and create a positive relationship between the handler and dog.

    Length: 6 weeks

    GCOC Members:$100.00

    General Registration: $165.00

    Instructors:  Tim Setterlund

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule classes.

    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process. GCOC does reserve the right to excuse any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.

    NOTE:  GCOC follows CDC guidelines. At this time masks are optional. We will adjust our policy according to the level of the virus in the area. Thank you for your cooperation. 

    The Greater Columbia Obedience Club will refund fees paid for a class, minus a $15 administration fee, if cancellation occurs at least five days prior to the first day of class. If cancellation is requested after that period, but the available slot can be filled from the class wait list, the payment minus the $15 administration fee, will be refunded. No refund will be paid if the slot cannot be filled, or the class begins. GCOC recognizes that extenuating circumstances may occur. In this event, an application may be made to the Training Director for a review of the situationSuch occurrences as a bitch in heat, death in the family, illness of canine or trainer will be considered.

Greater Columbia Obedience Club, Inc.

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