★ 5.0 Stars • 100+ Five-Star Reviews

Group Dog Training Classes Gaithersburg, MD

Get started with Good K9 Academy's group dog training classes in Gaithersburg, MD. Our group classes are structured practice sessions for dogs that already have basic obedience. Your dog practices and proofs their skills in real-world environments alongside other trained dogs, building reliability and confidence that holds up anywhere you go. Get started today by claiming your free consultation.

Group dog training class at Good K9 Academy Gaithersburg MD
EXCELLENT
★★★★★
Based on 100+ reviews on Google
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Ningping Feng
★★★★★

I have just got the One-Week Day Training at Good K9 Academy for my 9 months old German Shepherd girl Tandy. Tandy had attended 12 sessions of dog obedience training group class in a local dog school before taking the Good K9 Academy training program. Although Tandy and I learned some basic skills from that group classes but she still pulled leash sometimes which made me very frustrated. At the Good K9 Academy training, David taught her some very useful skills including heeling and placing which made her a completely different dog. The heeling has solved all the bad habits she had at walking and placing has improved her sit/down stay ability and calmness dramatically. Moreover, Tandy reacted to windshield wiper badly before and it was successfully corrected by David which made me relieved because finally I can drive with Tandy's ride in rain. Overall, Good K9 Academy's training is very impressive and reliable. Both David and Andrew have impressed me with their professionalism and love to dogs. Really appreciate!

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Joy
★★★★★

We are so happy to have found the Good K9 Academy! After completing the 2 week board & train program, our corgi is now turning heads with how eagerly she follows commands like "heel" and a sustained "place" ! The pack walks for alumni are a highlight! When we needed to board our corgi, we knew our pup would be in the best hands. Caroline possesses a rare combination of expertise and kindness that makes dogs feel safe and eager to learn. She also made long-distance flights with our corgi possible by teaching us to train her to feel safe in her travel carrier bag, ensuring a positive travel experience. I highly recommend the Good K9 Academy!

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Ryan Kavanaugh
★★★★★

Caroline and Andrew did an amazing job with our energetic 5 year old mixed breed dog who was in desperate need of training. They formulated a clear plan for his board and train and made us feel comfortable throughout his whole stay with regular updates on his progress and wellbeing. When we picked him up they gave us the skills and training we needed to continue his obedience at home. Would highly recommend!ServicesDog boarding with training

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Jimmy Yates
★★★★★

After hearing about Good K9 Academy from our friend, we decided to board our dog Sully with Caroline at Good K9 Academy. Sully was extremely reactive before training, and would pull the leash to chase any squirrel, or lunge to say hi to any human or dog that passed us. After the board/train and lots of practice, Sully walks like a service dog and we feel comfortable with him off leash! We cannot say enough good things about Good K9 Academy. When we boarded with Caroline, we were out of the country, and she sent us pictures and videos each day to make us feel at ease. She is so kind, responsive, easy to work with, and great with all dogs. Thank you again Caroline!ServicesDog boarding with training

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Wendy
★★★★★

I am very pleased with Andrew and the time he invested with my dog, Uzi. Andrew is an exceptionally dedicated trainer and did an excellent job teaching my dog to listen. He also paid close attention to Uzi's preferences, recognizing his toy-driven nature, and recommended an e-collar that worked wonderfully during our walks. Thank you so much; I am very impressed.ServicesDog training

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Jay
★★★★★

I signed my Australian Shepherd dog named Lupo up for the drop off week session with Good K9 Academy. I was highly impressed with how well Andrew the trainer did with my dog. My dog had several bad habits, such as jumping up on people and counter surfing, which he no longer does. He also learned several commands, the most important of which is heel and stay in one position. I would recommend Good K9 Academy to anyone who’s looking for a good dog training facility.

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Geri Levin
★★★★★

We sent our Golden Retriever, Oscar, to the two-week board and train with David to work on leash pulling and reactivity to loud sounds outside and he did an amazing job. Oscar is now a pro heeler, listens when we say commands and while he is always a bit fearful, David gave us ways to help Oscar cope with the these fears. I could not recommend Good K8 Academy enough for any type of training your dog might need!! They are pros and know how to help the most stubborn of dogs.

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moustafa fathy
★★★★★

I had dogs for over 30 years with a lot of trainers. So I was spectacle to send my dog to a new place. This has proven me 100% wrong. The dog I got back totally changed . David is the one who has done this miraculous transfer. He is extremely Knowledgeable professional with exceptional dedication follow up and the most important he Cares. I am honored to have to come to know him and to have my dog trained in the academy by him. David Keep the super super exceptional work , dedication and caring . My link to you and the academy will continue for ever........ServicesDog boarding with training

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Hannah Paragon
★★★★★

David has been amazing to work with! We brought our 7-year-old husky mix, Kali, to Good K9 for help with anxiety and reactivity. She spent about eight months in and out of shelters before I adopted her in 2019. After some early success with training, COVID hit us hard — she became anxious, territorial, and leash reactive. Our recent move to Maryland only added to that!Kali’s anxiety made walks tough. She’s also stubborn, stoic, and generally unmotivated😂. David took the time to understand her, and the progress she made in such a short amount of time was impressive. She’s not perfect (and we’re still learning!), but the difference is night and day.I also love that Good K9 doesn’t stop after training. They offer follow-ups as needed and weekly pack walks for continued practice. Would definitely recommend!ServicesDog boarding, Dog training

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Carlo Cristobal
★★★★★

We had a very reactive and hard to train rescue dog but David and team were great at adapting their style to her. They provided her with customized training during the bootcamp, and helped train us to be better owners as well.The team continued to provide us with support and advice through our journey, including additional training sessions, boarding, and daycare.They are great people all around and have created a supportive community for dogs and owners alike. We love good K9 and would highly recommend!!ServicesDog boarding with training, Dog boarding, Dog training

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Cris
★★★★★

I cannot say enough great things about this place! I took my dog, Teddy, here for a two-week obedience boarding program, and it was truly the best decision I could have made. From the moment I arrived, I felt an instant sense of professionalism, care, and expertise.Our trainer, David, was phenomenal—incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and communicative throughout the entire process. He kept me updated regularly and made sure I understood everything Teddy was learning. The progress Teddy made in just two weeks was unbelievable! Not only did his obedience improve dramatically, but he also became more confident and well-mannered overall.What really sold me on this place wasn’t just the training itself, but the positive, welcoming energy of the entire facility. I was so impressed that I immediately recommended it to a friend, and as soon as she visited and met David, she signed up for the two-week boarding on the spot—she could feel the same great vibe I did!If you’re looking for top-tier dog training with trainers who truly care about your pup’s success, this is the place to go. Highly, highly recommend! 🐶👏

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Andrew Enschedé
★★★★★

We brought our two 1 year and 4 month old cavapoos to Good K9 Academy for their two week intensive training. Before going they were incredibly reactive and difficult to control - even on leash. Every walk was a struggle.They have been back with us for a month now and have been an absolute joy. We are walking with them off leash. And although they are trained on an e-collar we are barely pressing any buttons. Both dogs are responding really well to voice commands - even when we see other dogs. Before they were impossible to control - now they’re great listeners and are super easy all around.Caroline and David took the time to meet with us in person and described the program. David and Dylan did all the training and have both remained available to answer questions - and also visit with us as needed post program. All in all - it has been a great experience and transformative for us as dog owners. Thank you!

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Small Group Classes with Big Results

Group classes at Good K9 Academy are not your typical beginner obedience class. These are structured practice sessions designed for dogs that already know the basics — sit, stay, place, heel, and come. Think of them as guided group outings where your dog gets to practice and proof the skills they have already learned in real-world environments with real distractions, other dogs, and new situations.

Our group classes are designed for dogs that already have a foundation of basic obedience. These are not beginner classes — they are structured group sessions where dogs practice their skills in real-world environments alongside other trained dogs. Think of them as guided pack walks and group training outings where your dog gets to proof their obedience around real distractions, other dogs, and new environments. Dogs must have completed a board and train program or demonstrated basic obedience before joining.

Dogs learning obedience in group class setting
Dogs socializing during group training class

Why Group Classes Matter

One of the biggest advantages of group classes is the ongoing socialization and skill maintenance they provide. Dogs that have been through training still need regular practice around other dogs and real-world distractions to stay sharp. Our group sessions give your dog that structured exposure in a controlled, supervised environment led by professional trainers.

Dogs that only practice at home can start to lose their edge over time. Group classes keep your dog's obedience reliable by consistently challenging them with new environments, new dogs, and new distractions. It is the best way to make sure the investment you made in training continues to pay off.

Group classes also benefit you as the handler. You learn to read your dog in a social context, practice timing and technique with professional guidance, and connect with other dog owners in your community. Many of our group class participants go on to enroll in our board and train program for even deeper results, which includes free alumni pack walks for life.

What to Expect in Each Session

Group sessions take place out in the real world — parks, trails, public spaces, and neighborhoods — not inside a training facility. Each session is led by one of our trainers who guides the group through structured exercises designed to reinforce and proof the obedience your dog has already learned. Dogs practice heeling past distractions, holding place and stay commands around other dogs, and responding to recall in open environments.

Your trainer provides real-time feedback and coaching as you work through each exercise with your dog. If your dog is struggling with something, they will help you troubleshoot on the spot. The goal is to build reliability — making sure your dog listens not just at home, but everywhere you go.

Group classes are ongoing and available to any dog that has completed our board and train program or can demonstrate solid basic obedience. They are the perfect way to maintain and sharpen your dog's skills long-term while giving them regular socialization in a structured, supervised setting.

Dog trainer demonstrating commands in group class
Various breeds in group obedience class

Training for All Breeds

Good K9 Academy group classes are open to all breeds and all sizes. We have trained everything from Goldendoodles and Labradors to German Shepherds, Huskies, and Pit Bulls. Our experienced trainers know how to manage mixed groups safely and productively. Small dogs work alongside large dogs because that is the reality of the world your dog will encounter on walks, at parks, and in your neighborhood.

To join group classes, your dog must have a foundation of basic obedience — commands like sit, stay, place, heel, and come should already be reliable. Dogs that have completed our board and train program are automatically eligible. If your dog has not been through our program but has solid obedience from another trainer, contact us and we will evaluate whether they are ready. Dogs with aggression, severe reactivity, or no prior training are not eligible for group classes.

Families from Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, Clarksburg, Poolesville, Columbia, and Washington DC attend our group classes. The combination of professional instruction, real-world socialization, and a supportive training community makes our classes one of the most effective and enjoyable ways to train your dog in the Montgomery County area. And with 100+ five-star Google reviews, you can trust that the training works.

Serving Dogs Across the Maryland, DC & Virginia

Good K9 Academy serves dog owners throughout Montgomery County and the surrounding communities from our Gaithersburg facility.

GaithersburgBethesdaPotomacRockvilleGermantownSilver SpringClarksburgPoolesvilleColumbiaWashington DC

Group Dog Training Classes Questions

How many dogs are in each group class?

Our group classes are deliberately kept small to ensure every dog gets meaningful attention. Class sizes vary but are always limited so our trainers can provide individualized feedback to each handler and dog. Contact us for current class availability and sizing.

What is the group class schedule?

Group classes run on a set schedule with multiple series throughout the year. Contact us for the current class schedule, start dates, and availability. We will help you find a time that works for your family.

What skill level are group classes for?

We offer group classes for all skill levels, from puppies and beginners who have never had formal training to intermediate and advanced dogs looking to build on existing skills. During your free consultation, we will recommend the right class level for your dog.

Are there any prerequisites for group classes?

Dogs must be current on vaccinations to attend group classes. We also recommend a brief evaluation or consultation before your first class so we can place your dog in the right group. Dogs with severe aggression or reactivity may need to start with private training before joining a group.

Can I attend group classes and private training at the same time?

Absolutely. Many of our clients combine group classes with private in-home training or board and train for the most comprehensive results. Group classes add the socialization component, while private sessions address individual behavior issues specific to your home environment.

Ready to Join a Group Class?

Give your dog the socialization and obedience skills they need. Contact Good K9 Academy for group class availability and schedule.

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