The Dog School is Vancouver's premier force-free dog training studio, founded by certified trainer Dr. Sarah Shapiro-Ward (PhD, CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP) and Katrina Per-Carruthers. We offer puppy classes for dogs 8-18 weeks, basic obedience training (Key Skills), advanced Badge Classes in agility, rally-obedience, nose work and tricks, Small Dog Socials for dogs under 25 lbs, plus private lessons and behaviour consultations for reactive and fearful dogs. We also provide professional B2B services including trainer-to-trainer consultations, speaking engagements, and dog-friendly workplace training programs. Located in West Point Grey at 4333 W 10th Ave, we serve Vancouver, Kitsilano, UBC, West Point Grey, Dunbar, Kerrisdale, Richmond, Ladner and Tsawassen with our unique start-anytime, credit-based system.
Signing Up for The Dog School is as
Easy as A-B-C
Why Choose The Dog School?
The Dog School is the only dog training facility in Vancouver offering true drop-in flexibility with no rigid weekly commitments. Our unique start-anytime model means you can join any class whenever it fits your schedule, and our innovative credit-based system (1 credit = any class, 3 credits = private lesson) gives you maximum flexibility. Earn $5 cash-back for every advanced badge your dog completes in our 60+ badge program covering agility, rally obedience, nose work, trick titles, and more.
Sample Class Calendar
Expert-Led, Science-Based Dog Training
Vancouver's only dedicated dog training studio with PhD-level expertise and featured in People Magazine and New York Post. Our trainers hold professional certifications including PhD, CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, CASI, and IAABC, bringing over 15 years of combined experience in force-free, positive reinforcement training methods across multiple species. Dr. Sarah Shapiro-Ward & Katrina Per-Carruthers have appeared on podcasts including "Worry Less, Wag More" and "Lead a Horse to Water" discussing reactive dog behaviour, urban dog training and horse training. Our science-based approach is backed by research and proven effective for puppies, adult dogs, and complex behaviour cases including reactivity, fear, and aggression.
5-Star Reviews From Our Clients
★★★★★ 5.0 Star Reviews on Google
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"I would give 100 stars if I could. I truly believe Sarah and Katrina are the best dog trainers in town. Thank you Sarah from the bottom of my heart for everything you've done for us!" - Sophia Ma
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"As a veterinarian who is acutely aware of the importance of positive, humane, and compassionate training practices, I was so unbelievably grateful to have found Sarah to support Selkie and I as we've grown together. I could not be more grateful for all that TDS offers, and would recommend them to anyone, anytime." - Caitlin McLagan, DVM
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"We are so fortunate to have found Sarah, she was our trainer in puppy classes for our first dog, Nebula. Sarah has been a cornerstone in our training journey, she is someone I look up to and highly recommend. You are in good hands with the Dog School!" - Dimitria Elefthérios
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Read More of our 27+ 5★ Google Reviews HERE
Featured Dog Training Expert Resources
Dr. Sarah Shapiro-Ward and Katrina Per-Carruthers have been featured in People Magazine, New York Post, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, CBC, and BC SPCA for expert dog training methods. Dr. Shapiro-Ward contributes to professional dog training podcasts including "Worry Less, Wag More" discussing reactive dog behavior, leash reactivity, dog aggression, fear-based behaviors, and urban dog training in Vancouver. Katrina Per-Carruthers appears on "Lead a Horse to Water" podcast sharing expertise in multi-species animal training including dogs and horses. Professional publications include articles on resource guarding in dogs, behavioral euthanasia consultations, handling reactive dogs in city environments, force-free dog training techniques, positive reinforcement methods, dog behavior thresholds, effective redirection strategies, and sensitive dog training in busy urban areas.
