Mt Diablo Dog Training Club

I have trained 4 dogs over the years at Mt. Diablo Dog Training Club. I agree that one of the trainers there is very opinionated and prefers herding type dogs and mocks other dogs and small dogs in particular. But the thing I am most unhappy about is that they let vicious dogs in the class. Last class I was in with my small dog there were 2 vicious dogs and I had to watch where I was so I wouldn't be too near them. On one occasion several years ago my Labrador retriever was attacked from behind by one of the "regular's" dogs ( Doberman to be exact) They still let this person in. Since then I am very leery now of this group and am always nervous. Beware of the vicious dogs. They shouldn't be in with the rest of the dogs in my opinion. more

Signed my dog up for the beginners class, and was the only small dog owner in the class. The trainer did not give any advice on how to modify the training program for such small dogs. It was a great program for medium to large sized dogs, but not small dog friendly. more

At first I was a little put out by the unspoken but obvious attitude one of the trainers had towards me and my "non-obedience breed". It was very clear that she didn't feel we belonged and she assumed my dog was going to be rude and badly behaved. HOWEVER, and this is a big HOWEVER, once we made it clear that the two of us (dog and I) were serious, that attitude disappeared. Most importantly, none of the other trainers looked down their noses and all have been polite and encouraging. Three titles later and I have to say that the training methods must be effective. Staff are very experienced, facility is good, could use a little more comeraderie and more insider's tips, but I am not outgoing, so it's probably me. I like the drop-in option, and I am certain that this club will help me reach my goals. Just wish that the highly advanced classes were offered on Saturdays. more

A range of classes from puppy to Utility. Great training facility. The staff are knowledgeable and the class fees are reasonable. Train your dog with competent trainers that have been doing this for a long time,and have earned multiple American Kennel Club Obedience Titles, not to mention a lot of the trainers are America Kennel Club judges! I would steer the "new" or "novice" dog person to this facility.Knowledge and experience is so much better then the "recent hire" at a major pet food store chain(s). more

The folks who train here have many many years of experience...that could be good or bad....if they don't keep up with the latest methods. The classes are fun and if you do the homework...are effective. Once you get past Beginner, the classes start to look and feel more like formal obedience classes. A great foundation if you think your pooch might someday be competitive in the obedience ring. Don't go here if you are looking to learn how to teach your dog how to do cute tricks. MDDTC is for serious dog trainers. Don't expect any clicker training here! PROS: Many years of experience CONS: Many years of experience more