Business Details
45 Years
experience
Trusted Dog Training & Obedience Classes in Lancaster, CA
Founded in 1981, the High Desert Obedience Club (HiDOC) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting responsible dog ownership and providing educational training programs for canine companions. Based in Lancaster, California, our mission focuses on delivering quality education to strengthen the bond between dogs and handlers while fostering confidence and good manners. With over four decades of experience, we offer group training classes tailored to dogs of all ages and skill levels, from puppy preschool to advanced competition training. Our certified trainers, many of whom are active competitors in dog sports, utilize proven, reward-based methods to address behavioral challenges and teach essential obedience skills.We emphasize socialization, mental stimulation, and practical training techniques that owners can continue at home. HiDOC also facilitates Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification, therapy dog programs, and community events that connect dog enthusiasts across the Antelope Valley. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our partnerships with organizations like the American Kennel Club and our dedication to supporting veterans, shelters, and rescue groups through discounted training services.
Services
Group Training Classes
CGC Certification
Puppy Socialization
Obedience Training
Scent Work
Therapy Dog Programs
Rally Obedience
Trick Training
Community Events
Pet Therapy Preparation
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience working with trainers, breeders, and owners.
- Our trainers are certified by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
- We offer discounts for veterans, fosters, and shelter dogs.
- Our curriculum includes therapy dog preparation and community outreach programs.
- We provide training for dogs at every life stage, from puppies to advanced competitors.
Associations and certifications
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
Services
Group Training Classes
Our group training sessions teach basic commands, agility, and socialization skills for dogs of all ages. Using positive reinforcement techniques, we help owners build strong bonds with their pets while addressing behavioral challenges. Classes are structured to accommodate puppies, novice dogs, and advanced competitors.
Canine Good Citizen Certification
This program prepares dogs for AKC Canine Good Citizen certification, focusing on obedience, manners, and community integration. Through six weeks of instruction, dogs learn to handle distractions, follow commands, and demonstrate proper behavior in public settings with their handlers.
Puppy Socialization
Designed for puppies up to 10 months, this course emphasizes early obedience training, housebreaking tips, and socialization with other dogs. Graduates earn the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy award while developing essential skills for lifelong good behavior and confidence.
Scent Work Classes
Scent work courses teach dogs to identify and locate specific odors, building mental focus and physical stamina. This activity suits all breeds and ages, offering mental stimulation through games that mimic real-world detection tasks in a fun, engaging environment.
Therapy Dog Preparation
Our therapy dog program trains pets to provide comfort in healthcare and community settings. Dogs learn to remain calm around medical equipment, interact safely with strangers, and maintain composure during visits to hospitals, schools, and senior centers.
People
Michelle Clifton
Novice Obedience Trainer
Certified through Animal Behavior College and an AKC CGC evaluator, Michelle has trained dogs for over 10 years. She specializes in positive reinforcement methods and competes successfully in dog sports, emphasizing strong handler-canine relationships.
Angelique Milillo
Puppy Training Specialist
With 7 years in animal healthcare and AKC evaluator certification, Angelique focuses on puppy fundamentals and behavioral solutions. Her holistic approach combines health knowledge with positive reinforcement training techniques for young dogs and their owners.
Lynda Peppyl
CGC Evaluator
An award-winning AKC competitor and CGC evaluator since 2017, Lynda specializes in canine good citizen training. She also operates the club's annual eye clinic, combining medical expertise with obedience certification for community dogs.
Juanita Forrest
Rally Obedience Instructor
AKC Fetch Judge and CGC evaluator since 2007, Juanita has earned multiple agility championships. She teaches rally obedience techniques that combine precision with fun, helping handlers and dogs develop competitive skills through structured courses.
Rebecca Barocas
Scent Work Trainer
With over a decade of experience competing in scent work, Rebecca trains dogs to develop detection skills while strengthening bonds with handlers. Her methods emphasize confidence-building through progressive odor identification challenges in controlled environments.
Questions
What dog training classes do you offer?
We provide puppy preschool, basic obedience, CGC certification, rally, scent work, and trick training classes for dogs of all ages and skill levels in Lancaster, CA.
How can my dog earn CGC certification?
Our 6-week CGC course prepares dogs for the 10-skill AKC evaluation, covering obedience, socialization, and public behavior. Graduates receive official AKC Canine Good Citizen certification.
Do you offer discounts for specific groups?
Yes, we provide discounted training for active military personnel, first responders, senior citizens, service dogs in training, and rescue/shelter dogs with proper documentation.
What are your class schedules?
Sessions run 7 weeks with multiple start dates annually. Puppy classes meet Thursdays at 6-7:50 PM; CGC courses meet weekly; specific times vary by training type and location.
How do I register for classes?
Pre-register online or attend in-person sign-ups at A Better Way Pet Care. Complete the application, submit vaccination records, and pay fees to secure your spot in selected courses.
What therapy dog training programs exist?
Our Pet Pals program trains dogs for therapy work in healthcare settings. Dogs must demonstrate calm behavior around strangers, medical equipment, and other animals to qualify for certification.
