Class Calendar and Registration

GCOC holds classes year round, with a break in late December for the holidays. Most classes are scheduled on weeknights, but occasionally daytime and weekend classes are offered.

Our classes are all taught by volunteer instructors who give generously of their time and energy. 

Registration online and payment in advance is required to attend any class.





Upcoming events

  • Open/Utility Workshop

    • 07 Jun 2019
    • 30 Aug 2019
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Building
    • 0
    Join waitlist
    Open/Utility Workshop


    These ongoing bi-monthly sessions are workshops for GCOC members interested in competing with their dogs at the higher levels of competition obedience. They will be executed according to the knowledge base and progression of training for each participant in the seven Open level exercises and/or the five Utility level exercises. Each handler/dog team will master the foundation skills needed for high level competition obedience, then progress to training their dog, in small breakdowns, the multiple chains of each Open and Utility exercise. The workshop leader will demonstrate some of the traditional training breakdowns for each exercise. As the handler/dog team progresses in the breakdowns, they will start linking together the parts to an exercise until they have mastered the entire exercise for all seven Open and/or five Utility exercises. Another purpose for this ongoing workshop is to promote an atmosphere of comradeship and perseverance between class members in the training of the Open/Utility exercises, the solving of problems in this training, and in the support of fellow classmates as they take the step to compete in Open and Utility Obedience.


    Prerequisite: CD or with instructor's permission.


    Instructor Jan Epting


    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process.  GCOC does reserve the right to excuse any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.


    GCOC reserves the right to cancel classes.

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  • Puppy Kindergarten - Evening

    • 26 Aug 2019
    • 07 Oct 2019
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Rd.
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    Puppy Kindergarten - Evening

     

    Puppy Kindergarten is designed for dogs 12 weeks to 6 months of age. This class will cover: gaining the puppy’s attention, impulse control for puppies, learning to relax around other dogs & people, basic commands, leash manners, and puppy safety issues. In addition to basic skills, confidence and manageability with new experiences will also be introduced. Other topics as appropriate will also be covered. The primary emphasis of this class will be to develop a positive relationship between the puppy and family members.

     

    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process.  GCOC does reserve the right to excuse any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded. 


    You will need to bring your puppy's vaccine records.


    This class will not meet Labor Day.


    Prerequisite: None
    Length: 6 weeks

     

    Instructors: Gayle Mitchiner/Mitch Mitchiner/

     

    General Registration: $125.00

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule classes.

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  • Introduction to Nosework

    • 26 Aug 2019
    • 30 Sep 2019
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility; 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 0
    Registration is closed

     INTRODUCTION TO NOSEWORK


    Nosework is a scent sport that is really growing.  Any dog can do it because it uses the dog’s natural desire to hunt. Scent sport is a good way to build dog’s confidence and is great for active dogs because it engages their minds.


    This introduction class starts dogs on odor right away instead of beginning with food.  Dogs will learn to recognize the first odor, Birch. Handlers will learn to read their dog’s signals, begin to learn a search/hunt alert, and to stay at the odor source.


    Prerequisite: The dog must have Basic Skills or permission from instructor. 

    Although this is an introduction class it is not for dogs who have not had experience in classes.  Dogs need to understand clickers and/or marker words and have a good start on impulse control.

    HANDLERS MUST BRING CRATES TO THIS CLASS.  DOGS NOT WORKING MUST BE IN CRATE.


    Nosework kits will be provided.


    This class is scheduled to meet September 2nd, Labor Day.


    Instructors: Mary Reeves, Mary McEntire, Debbie Shealy


    This class is for GCOC members only. 

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  • Intermediate Skills - Evening

    • 27 Aug 2019
    • 01 Oct 2019
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 0

    Intermediate Skills - Evening

     

    Intermediate Skills is designed for dogs and handlers who have successfully completed Basic Skills class, or the equivalent. This class will work on deepening and polishing the skills learned at the Basic level, including loose leash walking, attention/focus, impulse control, recalls, stays, and other skills.  


    The primary goal of this class will be to continue developing a happy, well-mannered family companion with emphasis on becoming a good canine citizen of the community.


    Prerequisite: Basic Skills or equivalent skills with the permission of the instructor.  If you have a questions, please call Renee 803-960-5541.

     

    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training, which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog.  Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process.  GCOC does reserve the right to excuse any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.


    GCOC reserves the right to cancel classes.


    Instructor:  Robbie Black and Bailey Howe

    General Registration $125.00

    Length: 6 weeks

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel classes.

    Show details

  • Basic Skills - Evening

    • 27 Aug 2019
    • 01 Oct 2019
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    Basic Skills - Evening

     

    Basic Skills is designed for dogs 6 months and older. This class will cover getting the dog’s attention, impulse control exercises such as wait and leave it, relaxing calmly around other dogs & people, and confidence with new experiences. Handlers will learn how to teach their dog controlled walking on a leash; sit, down, come and stay commands using the positive training techniques demonstrated in class.  The primary goal of this class will be to develop a happy, well-mannered family companion and create a positive relationship between the handler and dog.


    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process. GCOC does reserve the right to excuse any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.


    GCOC reserves the right to cancel classes.

     

    Prerequisite: none

    Length: 6 weeks

    Instructor:  Robbie Black, Bailey Howe and Walter Chastain

    General Registration $125.

     

     

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule classes.

    Show details

  • Intermediate Skills - Morning

    • 28 Aug 2019
    • 02 Oct 2019
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 3
    Register

    Intermediate Skills - Morning

     

    Intermediate Skills is designed for dogs and handlers who have successfully completed Basic Skills class, or the equivalent. This class will work on deepening and polishing the skills learned at the Basic level, including loose leash walking, attention/focus, impulse control, recalls, stays, and other skills.  


    The primary goal of this class will be to continue developing a happy, well-mannered family companion with emphasis on becoming a good canine citizen of the community.


    Prerequisite: Basic Skills or equivalent skills with the permission of the instructor.  If you have a questions, please call Renee 803-960-5541.


    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process. GCOC does reserve the right to excuse any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.

     

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel classes.


    Prerequisite: none

    Length: 6 weeks

    Instructor:  Renee Graham/Peggy Langdon

    General Registration $125.

     

     

    GCOC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule classes.

    Show details

  • Rally Advanced/Excellent/Masters Class

    • 28 Aug 2019
    • 02 Oct 2019
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility; 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 5
    Register

    Rally Advanced/Excellent/Masters Class

     

    This six week class will include the rally advanced/excellent/Masters signs and the skills that are needed for these signs.  Handlers will practice the exercises and perform short sequences with the signs.  Rally rules and ring strategy will be discussed.  Although it is not necessary when entering the class, handlers should be comfortable with their dog off leash.  The class is designed to be taken multiple times to assist you in preparation for competing at the Advanced/Excellent/Masters level. 

     

    Instructor: Susanne Butterfield

     

    If you have any questions, contact Renee Graham, 803-960-5541.   

     

     

     

     

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  • Advanced Skills - Evening

    • 28 Aug 2019
    • 02 Oct 2019
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    Advanced Skills - Evening

     

    The Advanced Skills class is designed for handlers and dogs who have successfully completed the intermediate class.  It covers topics such as attention, heeling, fronts, finishes, turns, and self-control.  This class provides the foundation for future work/classes in obedience, rally, and agility.    

    This class is designed to be taken several times to become more comfortable preforming higher level activities.


    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process.  GCOC does reserve the right to excuse any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.

     

    Prerequisite:  Intermediate Skills (or equivalent skills with the permission of the instructor)

     

    Instructor: TBD

     

    General Registration $125.00
    Payment is required to secure your registration. 
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    GCOC reserves the right to cancel classes.
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  • Rally Novice/Rally Intermediate Class

    • 28 Aug 2019
    • 02 Oct 2019
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility; 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Rally Novice/Intermediate Class

       

    This class is designed to teach the skills required to appropriately perform individual signs. Each week will focus on different signs, building on the skills from the previous week's signs.  The Rally Novice & Intermediate signs, some more difficult than others, will be worked on in this class.  The amount of time you are willing to practice in-between classes will influence how many signs we can cover during the six week course. The last class will have a course designed with the signs covered during the class.

    Please bring plenty of treats, a toy, and a crate. When you dog is not working you will be watching the dogs in the ring, learning and sharing ideas.

    This class is designed to take multiple times. 

     

    General registration: $125.00

     

    Instructor: TBA

     

    If you have any questions, contact Renee Graham, 803-960-5541.   

     

     

     

     

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  • Columbia Kennel Club Conformation Class

    • 12 Sep 2019
    • 14 Nov 2019
    • 8 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Road

    Columbia  Kennel Club Conformation Class

    Big & Small Ring


     

    Columbia Kennel Club Conformation classes will begin Thursday, September 12th at 7:30.


    Dates are:

    September 12, 19, 26

    October 10, 17, 24, 31

    November 14


    All classes begin at 7:30 p.m.


    Contact Janice Nepita via email for more information and to register for this class.  JaniceNepita@aol.com

     


     

     

     

       

     

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  • Get Novice Ready

    • 19 Sep 2019
    • 21 Nov 2019
    • 6 sessions
    • GCOC Training Facility 947 S. Stadium Road
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Get Novice Ready


    This class is designed to help teams master the foundation skills necessary for competition, practice building behavior chains for the Novice exercises, troubleshoot problem areas, build motivation and confidence, develop patterns and protocols for entering the ring and transitioning between exercises, learn effective handling to help guide and support your dog, and eventually enter trials at the Novice level.  The plan is that handler teams can continue to take the class until they “graduate” via the attainment of their CD, and for new handler teams to enter the program.

    Each hour long session will typically consist of teaching/reviewing some aspect of the skills necessary to compete at the Novice level along with practice on the skills and exercises you are working on. 

    The hope of the obedience training committee is that this develops into a long running, Thursday night class.  Based on the GCOC structure it will technically consist of 6 classes in each cycle.  New participants may join at the start of any 6 week cycle but preference will be given to returning class members.  The goal is to help people get to successfully attain their Novice title.


    Prerequisite:  Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Skills Class or Instructor's permission.  


    The mission of GCOC is to teach the handler successful methods of training which will result in a lifelong bond with their dog. Our goal is to provide a safe environment that will encourage this learning process.  GCOC does reserve the right to excuse any dog who is disruptive or whose learning threshold has been exceeded.

     


    Instruct: Peggy Langdon  Assistant: Robbie Black

      

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    GCOC reserves the right to cancel classes.
    Show details



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