Classes at Oxford Dog Sports

If you would like to register for one or more of the below classes please email classesatods@gmail.com.

Classes will be filled on a first-come basis.
  

Availability is not guaranteed.

If a class fills and there is more interest, you will be offered a waiting list spot

If more than three people are on a waiting list the trainer may opt to add an additional class at their discretion.





















Any questions regarding classes can be sent via our website or to classesatods@gmail.com.                                                           

(Please allow up to 72 hours for reply, classes are filled in order emails are received).

Offering obedience life skills, show handling, dog sport classes, and much more!

All classes are positive and fun!

Class sizes are small to ensure lots of individual attention and training time.

Classes are run on an ongoing basis, and new classes will be regularly added, so check back often.

Once a class is full, if there is sufficient demand, another class will be scheduled. 

Note: Pre-registration is mandatory as classes MAY be cancelled due to low 
enrollment 

Private, Semi-private Lessons and custom built classes. At Oxford Dog Sports, we try very hard to offer the majority of our classes at different times during the day, evenings and weekends in the hopes that something is available for everyone. Having said that we know it doesn’t always meet everyone’s needs.

We are always open to adding classes to the schedule providing there is enough interest and we have space and staff availability. Don’t hesitate to contact us at classesatods@gmail.com and we will see if we can build a class for you to meet your needs.

Private sessions and semi private session are always an option you can contact us about, we want to meet you and your dogs training needs.

(This is a great idea for people living a bit further away who might benefit from spending a few hours with the trainer with one dog or when they have more than one dog to train...)

SEPTEMBER 2026 CLASSES AT ODS

Learn more about what classes we offer


SEPTEMBER 2026 CLASSES @OXFORD DOG SPORTS

Contact classesatods@gmail.com for information and to register.

If are looking for a different time or subject availability, try asking to be put on a waiting list!


Puppy Power: Building Strong Foundations – 6 weeks long
Start Dates:
Thursday, September 24th at 6:00 PM
Monday, September 28th at 8:00 PM
Tuesday, September 29th at 7:00 PM

Puppyhood is one of the most powerful stages in your dog’s life. During this time, your puppy absorbs more information than at any other point — learning every minute of every day, whether you’re actively teaching or not.

Our Puppy Power program focuses on essential life skills that help your pup grow into a confident, well-adjusted Canine Citizen and cherished family member.

Together, we’ll cover the fundamentals, including:

• Attention and focus
• Polite leash walking and greetings
• Safe, respectful doorway behavior
• Sits and downs
• Boundaries and place training
• Reliable recall (coming when called)

With these skills, your puppy will gain the tools to thrive at home and in the wider world, setting the stage for a lifetime of success. Puppy Power, building skills that last a lifetime.
Prerequisite – None

Level 2 Obedience: Beyond the Basics – 6 weeks long
Start Dates:
Thursday, September 24th at 7:00 PM
Tuesday, September 29th at 6:00 PM

You’re not done yet! If you’ve graduated from Puppy Power, it’s time to take your pup’s skills to the next level.

In Level 2, we build on the foundations, raise expectations, and push training further — helping your puppy grow into the well‑mannered dog you’ve always envisioned.

Highlights:
• Leash walking refined with heeling
• Confidence around bigger distractions
• Longer, steadier stays
• A rock‑solid recall

Level 2 Beyond The Basics is where good habits become great ones - “Beyond the Basics: Confidence, Control, Connection”.
Prerequisite – Puppy Power, Level 1 Obedience or Equivalent

Rally Obedience – Level 1 – 6 weeks long
Start Dates:
Tuesday, September 29th at 5:45 PM

This class is an Introduction to Rally Obedience, and the first step in becoming a full-fledged Rally Dog.

In this class we will be using UKC Level 1 signs, break down signs, and teach new skills needed for success at this level as well as practice courses.
Prerequisite – Previous Rally Training, Obedience level 2 or equivalent

Scent Dog Sampler – 4 weeks long
Start Date:
Monday, September 28th at 7:00 PM

Are you wanting to start your dog in scent sports but are just not sure where to start? Then this class is ideal for you! Each week you will be introduced to a scent sport and have a chance to try it on and see if it’s a good fit for you and your dog.

The sports that, will be featured are Nosework, Urban Rat Race, Lost & Found and Country Rat Race. By the end of this class, you will have a good idea of where your dog’s talents are in scent dog sports and where to start.
Prerequisite – None

Urban Rat Race – Clever/Adventurer/Explorer – 6 weeks long
Start Dates:
Thursday, September 10th at 1:00 PM (Clever/Adventurer)
Thursday, September 10th at 7:00 PM 4 weeks long (Clever/Adventurer)
Monday, September 28th at 6:00 PM 4 weeks long (Adventurer/Explorer)

This is the next step in the wonderful world of URR. This innovative program blends the precision of Nosework with the excitement of Rat Sport, challenging dogs of all breeds to locate a rat in a creatively designed “urban” setting.

This Level marks a significant leap in difficulty. Hides are more complex, obstructions are tougher, and the search environment demands sharper focus and stronger teamwork. It’s a true test of skill, strategy, and determination—for both dog and handler.
Prerequisite: Completion of Urban RAT Race previous level

IT’S BACK!
Country Rat Race - Cubs/Scouts (Level 1/2) – 4 weeks long

Start Dates:
Tuesday, September 1st at 6:45 PM – 2 weeks long
Monday, September 28th at 7:00 PM – 3 weeks long

CUBS/ Scouts is an Introduction to this all-new sport and is appropriate for dogs with NO previous rat sport experience. The purpose of CRR is to demonstrate a dog’s vermin hunting ability in a country setting. CRR tests the dogs hunt drive, combined with ability to work effectively with handler as a team. Dogs Handler Teams will be Tracking the scent of rats and will be on the hunt to find them. This outdoor Rat Sport will prove to be fun for Dog-Handler Teams.

All Breed Independent Dog Sports is proud to introduce COUNTRY RAT RACE (CRR). This NEW sport has been developed by ABI for all breeds of dogs who enjoy Rat Sports. Elements of Urban Rat Race, Barn Hunt, Earth Dog, Trailing & Locating and Tracking have been used in the development of this new sport.
Prerequisite – None

IT’S BACK!
Country Rat Race Scouts/ Huntsman Bootcamp 4 weeks long

Start Date:
Tuesday, September 29th at 6:45 PM

Ready to turn up the excitement? Country Rat Race Scouts / Huntsman is the next level of CRR and is designed for Dog–Handler Teams who already have some sniffing skills, have completed CUBS and are looking to get Trial ready. Huntsman takes everything you love about rat sports and kicks it up a notch.

Dogs and handlers head outdoors for a true country style challenge, tracking the scent of rats and hunting down the hidden quarry. It’s all about instinct, teamwork, and that electric “we found it!” moment. Expect fast thinking, sharp noses, and a whole lot of fun.

Goal: Big fun, big teamwork, big country style hunting energy If your dog loves a challenge and you love watching them shine, then this bootcamp is calling your name.
Prerequisite: Country Rat Race CUBS

IT’S BACK!
Country Rat Race – Huntsman/Hunt Master/Fieldmaster (Level 3, 4 and 5) 6 weeks long

Start Dates:
Wednesday, September 9th at 10:00 AM

Country Rat Race Huntsman is the 3rd level of Country Rat Race and is best suited for Dogs and Handlers who have previous experience with Advanced Trailing and Locating, Urban Rat Race, Barn Hunt and or earth dog.

The purpose of CRR is to demonstrate a dog’s vermin hunting ability in a country setting. CRR tests the dogs hunt drive, combined with ability to work effectively with handler as a team. Dogs Handler Teams will be Tracking the scent of rats and will be on the hunt to find them.

This outdoor Rat Sport will prove to be fun for Dog Handler Teams. All Breed Independent Dog Sports is proud to introduce COUNTRY RAT RACE (CRR). This NEW sport has been developed by ABI for all breeds of dogs who enjoy Rat Sports. Elements of Urban Rat Race, Barn Hunt, Earth Dog, Trailing & Locating and Tracking have been used in the development of this new sport.
Prerequisite – Country Rat Race Scouts/Huntsman

NEW!
Country Rat Race Trial Prep – 6 weeks long

Start Dates:
Thursday, September 10th at 6:00 PM

The Country Rat Race (CRR) program puts your dog’s natural hunt drive to the test while strengthening the teamwork between dog and handler. In this sport, Dog–Handler Teams track the scent of rats outdoors and work together to locate them. It’s an engaging, fast‑paced, and incredibly fun challenge for teams who love to work in the field.

This Trial Prep Class is ideal for dogs entering the Scouts, Huntsman, and Huntmaster levels. Throughout the course, you and your dog will have the opportunity to practice skills, build confidence, refine teamwork, and prepare for the demands of higher‑level CRR trials.

The goal of this class is simple: Get you and your dog trial‑ready for success in upcoming Country Rat Race events.
Prerequisite – Country Rat Race Scouts

Intro. to Nosework – 6 weeks long
Start Dates:
Thursday, September 24th at 7:00 PM
Monday, September 28th at 7:00 PM
Tuesday, September 29th at 8:00 PM

Nosework is a wonderful sport that celebrates a dog’s most natural gift—their incredible sense of smell. By searching for hidden scents, dogs build confidence, relieve stress, and enjoy both mental and physical enrichment. Best of all, Nosework is open to every dog, regardless of age or breed, making it one of the most welcoming activities in the canine world.

In our Introduction to Nosework class, you and your dog will begin this rewarding journey together. As a team, you’ll learn how to channel your dog’s instincts into purposeful searches that challenge their mind and body. Because Nosework is true cognitive work, many dogs finish a session happily tired proof of just how engaging and fulfilling the sport can be.
Prerequisite – None

Novice / Advanced Nosework – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Tuesday, September 23rd at 12:30 PM (Novice/Advanced)
Monday, September 28th at 6:00 PM
Tuesday, September 29th at 1:30 PM (Novice/Advanced)
Tuesday, September 29th at 8:00 PM (Novice/Advanced)

Building on the foundation work, this class raises the challenge for both dogs and handlers. Teams will begin working in larger search areas and learn to navigate added distractions, all while continuing to refine the handling skills needed to confidently read your dog’s signals.

In this class, we’ll also introduce small area searches, giving dogs the opportunity to sharpen their focus and precision. This stage is all about strengthening teamwork, building resilience, and preparing for more advanced scent work.
Prerequisite – Intro. to Nosework or equivalent

Superior / Masters Nosework – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Monday, September 28th at 8:00 PM (Superior/Master)

Ready to take your Nosework journey to the next level? In this class, we’ll build on the foundation from Novice Nosework and step up the challenge. Teams will explore larger search areas, tackle multiple hides, and work through added distractions designed to sharpen focus and resilience. Handlers will continue refining the art of reading their dogs with confidence, while dogs gain experience in more complex search environments. Together, you’ll strengthen teamwork, trust, and skill—setting the stage for even greater success in the sport.
Prerequisite – Novice, Advanced, Superior Nosework

Get That Elite Nosework Q – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Thursday, September 24th at 8:00 PM

Getting the Q in Elite is no easy task. It requires many skills, exceptional teamwork, confidence and a bit of luck. This class is designed to help you break through at the Elite Level of Nosework and GET THAT Q.

In this class we will look at each team’s individual strengths and needs make a skill building plan for each dog and handler team, and practice and train these skills. ABI Scent games will be used in these classes to build skills, fail less and qualify more.
Prerequisite: Advanced / Superior Nosework or equivalent

IT’S BACK!
Exteriors /Vehicles - Getting Started (Novice / Advanced) – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Monday, September 28th at 7:00 PM

Exteriors and Vehicles are often the most challenging of the elements for many dogs and handlers. This class is well suited for dogs/ handlers who are just jumping into the outdoor elements at the Novice/ Advanced Levels or, who want to do more practice at these levels. Our focus will be on skill-building and refining handling skills needed to be successful in these elements.
Prerequisite – Novice / Advanced Nosework

Vehicles/Exterior Nosework Superior Masters – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Thursday, September 10th at 6:00 PM

Exteriors and Vehicles are often the most challenging of the elements for many dogs and handlers. This class is well suited for dogs who are trialing in Vehicles and exteriors or are getting ready to do so Superior / Masters.

Our focus will be on skill building and refining handling skills needed to be successful in these elements. This class will be suitable for dogs working Novice - Elite.
Prerequisite – Novice/Advanced Nosework

NEW!
Handler Discrimination Trial Prep – 4 weeks long
Start Dates:
Tuesday, September 28th at 8:00 PM

The Handler Discrimination Program in Nosework introduces an exciting new challenge for you and your dog. In this skill, your dog learns to locate and indicate your personal scent—found on a glove hidden within a box. It’s a fresh way to expand your Nosework journey and deepen your teamwork. This program also serves as a prerequisite for the ABI Lost & Found Program, a fun and rewarding activity for dog-handler teams. Our 4‑week class is designed to prepare you to trial in Handler Discrimination at the Novice, Advanced, and Excellent levels. Prerequisite: Novice Nosework or equivalent

IT’S BACK! 
Lost & Found – Discover (Level 3) – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Tuesday, September 29th at 12:30 PM

In Level 3 we are working towards the highest level of trial Level Discoverer and preparing you for the challenges that this level of competition brings In Lost & Found, dogs and handlers work together to search, locate, and indicate previously scented items hidden within an area. Designed to loosely simulate search-and-rescue scenarios, this sport offers a significant challenge while remaining accessible and rewarding for dedicated teams.

Sanctioned by ABIDS (All Breed Independent Dog Sports), Lost & Found is already off to a flying start here at Oxford Dog Sports. It’s fresh, exciting, and unlike anything else—perfect for handlers looking to expand their skills and dogs eager for a new adventure. Lost & Found: Nosework with purpose and adventure. Prerequisite: Lost and Found – Next Steps

Show Handling – The Art of Presentation - w/Will Alexander – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Wednesday, September 2nd at 6:00 PM

Oxford Dog Sports is proud to welcome Will Alexander as our in-house Show Handling Instructor. A highly sought-after handler and judge, Will is truly a living legend in the sport. In this class, you’ll learn how to prepare and present your dog for conformation competition while practicing ring procedure. Along the way, you’ll receive tailored instruction on topics such as: • Handling basics and showmanship • What to expect at shows • Essential equipment Whether you’re brand new to the ring or looking to polish your skills with a young dog, this class offers the perfect opportunity to build confidence, gain experience, and get ring ready.
Prerequisite – None

IT’S BACK!
Intro. to Show Handling w/Sean P. Kent – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Thursday, October 1st at 12:30 PM

This class is ideally suited for handlers new to the Conformation world. Participants will be instructed on how to prepare and present their dog for conformation competition as an owner-handler. In addition to practicing ring procedure with your dog, classes will include information such as:
• Understanding the structure of dog shows
• How to enter shows and where to find information about shows
• Rules
• Different organizations that host dog shows and how they are different • Equipment
• What good sportsmanship looks like
Prerequisite - None

August 2026 classes at ODS!


Learn more about what we offer


AUGUST CLASSES @ OXFORD DOG SPORTS

Contact us at classesatods@gmail.com


Puppy Power: Building Strong Foundations – 6 weeks long
Start Dates:
Thursday. August 6th at 7:00 PM
Monday, August 10th at 7:00 PM – 4 weeks long
Tuesday, August 18th at 6:00 PM


Puppyhood is one of the most powerful stages in your dog’s life. During this time, your puppy absorbs more information than at any other point — learning every minute of every day, whether you’re actively teaching or not. Our Puppy Power program focuses on essential life skills that help your pup grow into a confident, well-adjusted Canine Citizen and cherished family member.

Together, we’ll cover the fundamentals, including:
· Attention and focus
· Polite leash walking and greetings
· Safe, respectful doorway behavior
· Sits and downs
· Boundaries and place training
· Reliable recall (coming when called)

With these skills, your puppy will gain the tools to thrive at home and in the wider world, setting the stage for a lifetime of success. Puppy Power, building skills that last a lifetime.
Prerequisite – None

Level 2 Obedience: Beyond the Basics – 6 weeks long
Start Dates:
Tuesday, August 18th at 7:00 PM – 4 weeks long


You’re not done yet! If you’ve graduated from Puppy Power, it’s time to take your pup’s skills to the next level. In Level 2, we build on the foundations, raise expectations, and push training further — helping your puppy grow into the well‑mannered dog you’ve always envisioned.

Highlights:
· Leash walking refined with heeling
· Confidence around bigger distractions
· Longer, steadier stays
· A rock‑solid recall

Level 2 Beyond The Basics is where good habits become great ones -“Beyond the Basics: Confidence, Control, Connection”.
Prerequisite – Puppy Power, Level 1 Obedience or Equivalent

Rally Obedience Mixed Skills and Rally 3/Masters – 6 Weeks long
Start Dates:
Tuesday, August 11th at 2:30 PM (Level 3/Masters)


Rally, also known as Rally-O, is a fun and engaging dog sport where you and your dog work together to complete a course of 10 to 20 stations.

Each station presents an obedience challenge, and unlike traditional trials, Rally encourages movement, praise, and teamwork. It’s a relaxed, interactive way to build skills and deepen your bond.

This Mixed Skills format is ideal for handlers who have previously taken Rally Classes and want to :
•Practice full Rally courses
•Learn and refine signs across multiple levels
•Explore CKC (Canadian Kennel Club) signs (if there’s interest) Whether you're prepping for competition or simply looking to grow your skills, this class offers a supportive and motivating environment for you and your dog.
Prerequisite: Rally 2 or higher

NEW - EXTRAVAGANZA Rally Obedience Prep Class
Start Dates:
Thursday, August 20th at 8:00 PM – 4 weeks long
Tuesday, August 25th at 5:45 PM – 3 weeks long


Get ready for the ODS/UKC Extravaganza Trials happening September 18–20, featuring six Rally Trials! This prep class is designed to help dog‑handler teams sharpen their skills and step confidently into the ring.

We’ll cover mixed‑level exercises from Levels 1, 2, and 3, focusing on:
· Learning new signs and sequences
· Practicing full courses
· Building teamwork and precision

Whether you’re polishing your technique or aiming for new titles, this class will get you trial‑ready for the big event!
Prerequisite: Rally 1 or higher

Urban Rat Race - Rookie – 4 weeks long
Start Dates:
Monday, August 10th at 7:00 PM – 3 weeks long
Thursday, August 13th at 1:00 PM
Thursday, August 13th at 6:00 PM


Welcome to URR Urban RAT Race! A great program that blends the precision of Nosework with the excitement of Rat Sport!
Designed to test the natural instincts and scenting abilities of dogs from all breeds, this sport challenges teams to locate a rat hidden in a simulated “urban” environment.

Urban Rat Race ROOKIE is the entry-level class in this dynamic series. It’s perfect for dogs and handlers who are brand new to Rat Sport; no prior experience required.

Whether you're just starting out or looking for a fresh adventure, this class promises tail-wagging fun and a fantastic bonding experience. - Prerequisite: None. Just bring your curiosity and your canine partner’s nose!

Urban Rat Race – Clever/Adventurer/Explorer– 6 weeks long
Start Dates:
Monday, August 24th at 6:00 PM – 3 weeks long
Wednesday, August 26th at 1:30 PM – 3 weeks long


This is the next step in the wonderful world of URR. This innovative program blends the precision of Nosework with the excitement of Rat Sport, challenging dogs of all breeds to locate a rat in a creatively designed “urban” setting.

This Level marks a significant leap in difficulty. Hides are more complex, obstructions are tougher, and the search environment demands sharper focus and stronger teamwork. It’s a true test of skill, strategy, and determination—for both dog and handler. Prerequisite: Completion of Urban RAT Race previous level


Intro to Nosework – 4 weeks long
Start Dates:
Monday, August 10th at 6:00 PM
Tuesday, August 18th at 8:00 PM
Wednesday, August 19th at 12:30 PM
Thursday, August 20th at 2:00 PM


Nosework is a wonderful sport that celebrates a dog’s most natural gift—their incredible sense of smell. By searching for hidden scents, dogs build confidence, relieve stress, and enjoy both mental and physical enrichment. Best of all, Nosework is open to every dog, regardless of age or breed, making it one of the most welcoming activities in the canine world.

In our Introduction to Nosework class, you and your dog will begin this rewarding journey together. As a team, you’ll learn how to channel your dog’s instincts into purposeful searches that challenge their mind and body. Because Nosework is true cognitive work, many dogs finish a session happily tired proof of just how engaging and fulfilling the sport can be.
Prerequisite – None

Novice Nosework – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Tuesday, August 11th at 1:30 PM – 5 weeks long
Monday, August 27th at 7:00 PM – 3 weeks long


Building on the foundation from Intro to Nosework, this class raises the challenge for both dogs and handlers. Teams will begin working in larger search areas and learn to navigate added distractions, all while continuing to refine the handling skills needed to confidently read your dog’s signals.

In Novice Nosework, we’ll also introduce small area searches, giving dogs the opportunity to sharpen their focus and precision. This stage is all about strengthening teamwork, building resilience, and preparing for more advanced scent work.
Prerequisite – Intro to Nosework or equivalent

Advanced/Superior Nosework – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Tuesday, August 4th at 7:00 PM
Thursday, August 27th at 1:00 PM (Superior/Master)


Ready to take your Nosework journey to the next level? In this class, we’ll build on the foundation from Novice Nosework and step up the challenge. Teams will explore larger search areas, tackle multiple hides, and work through added distractions designed to sharpen focus and resilience.

Handlers will continue refining the art of reading their dogs with confidence, while dogs gain experience in more complex search environments. Together, you’ll strengthen teamwork, trust, and skill—setting the stage for even greater success in the sport.

Masters Nosework – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Thursday, August 27th at 1:00 PM (Superior/Master)


This class is best suited for dogs working at or looking forward to working at the master’s level and getting ready for the Elite level of Nosework. This class has been designed to challenge dogs and prepare them for high levels of Nosework.
Prerequisite: Advanced / Superior Nosework or equivalent

NEW! - Get That Elite Nosework Q – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Tuesday, August 11th at 12:30 PM


Getting the Q in Elite is no easy task. It requires many skills, exceptional teamwork, confidence and a bit of luck. This class is designed to help you break through at the Elite Level of Nosework and GET THAT Q.

In this class we will look at each team’s individual strengths and needs make a skill building plan for each dog and handler team, and practice and train these skills. ABI Scent games will be used in these classes to build skills, fail less and qualify more.
Prerequisite: Advanced / Superior Nosework or equivalent

Lost & Found – Advanced (Level 3) – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Wednesday, August 19th at 11:30 AM


In Level 3 we are working towards the highest level of trial Level Discoverer and preparing you for the challenges that this level of competition brings In Lost & Found, dogs and handlers work together to search, locate, and indicate previously scented items hidden within an area.

Designed to loosely simulate search-and-rescue scenarios, this sport offers a significant challenge while remaining accessible and rewarding for dedicated teams. Sanctioned by ABIDS (All Breed Independent Dog Sports), Lost & Found is already off to a flying start here at Oxford Dog Sports. It’s fresh, exciting, and unlike anything else—perfect for handlers looking to expand their skills and dogs eager for a new adventure. Lost & Found: Nosework with purpose and adventure...
Prerequisite: Lost and Found – Next Steps

Show Handling – The Art of Presentation - w/Will Alexander – 6 weeks long
Start Date:
Wednesday, August 19th at 6:00 PM


Oxford Dog Sports is proud to welcome Will Alexander as our in-house Show Handling Instructor. A highly sought-after handler and CKC and ABIDS judge; Will is truly a living legend in the sport.

In this class, you’ll learn how to prepare and present your dog for conformation competition while practicing ring procedure. Along the way, you’ll receive tailored instruction on topics such as:
• Handling basics and showmanship
• What to expect at shows
• Essential equipment

Whether you are brand new to the ring or looking to polish your skills with a young dog, this class offers the perfect opportunity to build confidence, gain experience, and get ring ready.
Prerequisite: None

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