we have a variety of fun and engaging group training classes that will take your bond with your dog to the next level. Remember, a well-trained dog is a happy dog! Some of our most popular classes include Puppy Socials, Canine Good Citizen Class, Reactive Rover Class, and Basic Obedience Class.

Before your first class (or even before signing up), please view our training policies. These policies are design not only for your and your pet’s safety, but to ensure classes run smoothly and effectively. Remember, both for shelter animals and public classes, all of Joybound’s dog training is done via positive reinforcement methods.

Upcoming Dog Training Classes

Meet Our Class Trainers

Alex Mikesell

AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, AKC Trick Dog Evaluator, a Certified Control Unleashed Instructor, and certified Fear Free trainer.

A talented and beloved dog trainer, Alex began training dogs at age 10 when he began agility training with his family dog. Alex formalized his passion, attending Bergin University of Canine Studies where he earned his Associate of Science Degree in Assistance Dog Education, specializing in training service dogs to assist with challenges related to mobility, PTSD, diabetes, and autism. He then became a Canine Good Citizen Trainer and Evaluator. Alex is also an AKC Trick Dog Evaluator and Certified Control Unleashed Instructor, specializing in training reactive dogs who bark and lunge on leash. Alex is a certified Fear Free trainer. 

Since joining Joybound in 2023, Alex has strengthened the bonds between hundreds of dogs and their guardians through improving behaviors, increasing socialization, and teaching dogs and their guardians to problem solve together. “I love watching anxious, reactive dogs blossom into confident and calm dogs in public. Once we start learning how to effectively communicate with our dogs and learn their signals; it’s amazing the training and bond that can be accomplished.”

Emma Hansson

AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Certified in Training Counseling, AKC Trick Dog Evaluator, and certified Fear Free trainer.

With over a decade of experience as a professional dog trainer, Emma Hansson has established herself as a trusted professional in the field. She began her career at Joybound in 2012 and then joined the behavior specialty clinic at San Francisco SPCA where she gained invaluable experience in animal behavior and training. Certified in Training Counseling (CTC) by the respected Academy for Dog Trainers, Emma employs evidence-based methods to address training challenges with care and empathy. Emma prioritizes the well-being of animals above all else, evident in her Fear Free and Low Stress Handling certifications for both dogs and cats. Emma is also an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and AKC Trick Dog Evaluator.

In addition to her clinical work, Emma served as a co-coach for the UC Davis Koret Behavior, Training, and Enrichment Program, where she mentored aspiring shelter professionals across the country in the field of animal behavior and welfare.

Committed to continuous learning and innovation, Emma stays up-to-date of the latest research and techniques to better serve her clients. Whether addressing training issues, refining training techniques, or fostering enriching environments, Emma is dedicated to supporting clients on their journey towards a joyful relationship with their companions. When she is not training dogs she likes to go for hikes with her own two dogs Pippi and Sneakers.

Kupa the dog

Private Consultations

Need one-on-one assistance for a particular challenge or behavior? Our behavior and training team offers private consultations for dog and cat guardians. Each consultation includes discussing behavior history, solidifying goals, and developing and evaluating a training and management plan. Our team uses humane, science-based training techniques and offers sessions at competitive rates.

Free Classes for Veterans

As part of our Pets and Vets program and our commitment to ensuring every military Veteran can experience the love of an adoring animal, we’ll soon be launching free basic obedience classes for Joybound dogs adopted by Veterans. These weekly, 8-week classes are for dogs 6 months old and above.

Contact Our Training and Behavior Team

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