Small-group classes for every dog and every goal — taught by National Trainer of the Year Laura Christiansen at our beautiful indoor facility in Carlsbad, CA.
Find the Right Class for Your Dog
Whether you have a brand new puppy, a dog who needs a tune-up, or a motivated dog ready for sport and adventure, Canine Learning Centers has a program designed for exactly where you are right now. Every class is kept intentionally small — a maximum of six to seven dogs — so your dog gets genuine attention and you get real coaching, not just a seat in a crowd.
Group classes are not set up for aggressive or reactive dogs. You will be asked to leave if your dog is behaving aggressively in a group setting. It is our responsibility to keep all dogs safe in our classes. Not sure if group class is right for your dog? Read this first!
Puppy and Adolescent
For dogs 12 to 24 weeks. The best time to build good habits is right now. Foundation skills, socialization, and confidence — taught at exactly the right moment to set your dog up for life.
Obedience
For dogs 6 months and up. The essential commands, focus, and real-world manners every dog needs. Build the foundation that makes daily life with your dog genuinely enjoyable.
Freedom Unleashed
For dogs 1 year and up with a solid foundation. The goal every dog owner dreams about: a dog you can genuinely trust off leash. This class builds the distance, focus, and responsiveness to make that real.
Urban Dog
For dogs who have completed CGC. Busy sidewalks, public buildings, crowded spaces — this class prepares your dog for everything city life throws at them. Earn the AKC Urban Dog title along the way.
Agility
For dogs 7 months and up. Jumps, tunnels, weave poles — and a dog that’s having the time of their life. Three levels from Intro to Advanced make agility accessible to any motivated dog and owner.
Private Lessons
Obedience, manners & behavior modification. Prefer one-on-one attention? Private lessons give you Laura’s undivided focus and a training plan built entirely around your dog’s personality, history, and goals.
Group classes are not set up for aggressive or reactive dogs. You will be asked to leave if your dog is behaving aggressively in a group setting. It is our responsibility to keep all dogs safe in our classes. Not sure if group class is right for your dog? Read this first!
Your Questions Answered
All classes are held at our indoor training facility in Carlsbad — a comfortable, distraction-controlled environment that makes real learning possible year-round, regardless of weather.
We’re located at:
5115 Avenida Encinas, Suite H
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
Group classes are capped at six to seven dogs depending on the class. This small-group format is intentional — it’s what allows Laura to give every team the individual attention that produces real results.
Every class includes homework and many include instructional videos so the learning doesn’t stop when the session ends. Consistent practice at home is what turns classroom skills into real-life reliability — progress happens between classes just as much as during them.
Where prerequisites apply they are clearly noted on each class page. If you’re unsure whether your dog qualifies for a particular class, contact Laura before registering and she’ll help you find the right fit.
If your dog is under 6 months, Puppy & Adolescent is the place to begin. For older dogs new to training, Beginner Obedience is the right foundation.
Yes, but group classes aren’t the right starting point. Dogs with reactivity or aggression need a lower-distraction environment first, where they can actually learn rather than just react. Laura offers private behavioral consultations specifically designed for this situation — and many of those dogs go on to join group classes once they have the confidence and foundation to handle the environment. Learn more about reactive and aggressive dogs.
Some classes require an initial one-hour private lesson with Laura before enrolling. It’s the best way to make sure you and your dog hit the ground running and are placed in the right class from the start.
Why Canine Learning Centers
Laura Christiansen has been training dogs in Carlsbad and North County San Diego since 1992. She was named National Trainer of the Year at the 61st Annual Show Dogs of the Year — selected from thousands of nominees across the country. Her methods are positive, science-based, and built around the belief that great training produces a genuine relationship between dog and owner, not just a dog who follows commands.
Ready to Register?
Spots in our most popular classes fill quickly. Check the current schedule and reserve your dog’s place today.