Resources
Helpful info for dog owners.
Training, nutrition, medical, and more — curated for GSDs, Malinois, and the humans who love them.
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Quick reference for dog owners
Training & Behavior
Feeding & Diet
Medical
New Adopter
- Adoption packet: what to expect
- ICE pet cards (emergency)
- “I have a pet at home” door card
Community
- Local trainers and behaviorists
- Boarding and daycare partners
- Emergency vet contacts
Training
Trainer options for SPR adopters
Our breeds are highly intelligent and need to exercise their minds and bodies. Training is also a great way to meet other adopters working on the same skills with their dogs. Below are the options we point adopters and fosters to most often.
SPR Group Classes
Run by SPR · Open to adopters & fosters
Volunteer obedience classes led by SPR’s Training Coordinator, Nancy Zeiher. Any SPR-adopted dog can attend — not breed restricted.
Bring a non-retractable leash, collar, mat or rug, patience, and a sense of humor.
Grand Canyon GSD Club
Official AKC club · GSD & GSD mixes
Free GSD obedience classes open to any GSD owner or foster. You don’t have to be a club member to attend. GSD mixes are accepted; other breeds are not (AKC affiliation).
Season runs October–May (break during summer heat).
Phoenix Field & Obedience Club
Non-profit · Skill & age based classes
The oldest and largest non-profit dog obedience training club in the Phoenix metro area. Welcomes all breeds and all skill levels — you and your dog can advance to more skilled work over time.
Rally classes (a blend of light agility and obedience) are also offered. A great skills class for you and your dog.
1:1 & Private Trainers
For specific behaviors or board & train
There is no shortage of individual trainers in the Valley. SPR no longer publishes a public list — we can’t keep current with all of them — but we’re happy to help you find the right fit.
Reach out to our Training Coordinator or your adoption coordinator and they’ll share names to research. SPR adopters can also join our private Facebook group, where adopters share trainer experiences and recommendations.
Selecting a trainer
Before you commit to any trainer, class, or school, go observe a session first. References are useful, but one trainer’s style might work for one person and not another — you’re as much a part of the training as the dog. If a trainer won’t let you observe, look for one who will. Not all trainers are experienced with working-line dogs like GSDs and Belgian Malinois, so ask about their experience and training style before you sign up.
SPR provides this information as a courtesy to our adopters and does not control non-SPR activities. SPR is not affiliated with or endorsing trainer Brian Keller of Arizona K9 / AZK9; any materials from Mr. Keller suggesting an SPR association are not accurate.
Links and references are provided as helpful starting points. Every dog is different — please consult your vet or a qualified trainer for specific concerns.
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