Gold Program

Our Gold Program is designed for motivated dog and handler teams who want more than a weekly class.

This is a small, year-long coaching program for people who are serious about training, interested in exploring sport or advanced obedience, and looking for thoughtful guidance tailored to the dog in front of them.

Gold teams train closely with us throughout the year through a combination of private lessons, targeted semi-privates, classes, workshops, and drop-ins. Some teams trial heavily. Others simply enjoy training deeply with their dogs and exploring new activities together.

Because this program is intentionally kept small, previous Gold teams always receive first right of refusal before new spots open.

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Is the Gold Program Right for You and Your Dog?

 

This program is designed for dogs who are behaviorally stable and ready to focus on learning, training, and sport foundations. (Dogs struggling with aggression, severe reactivity, or significant fear issues are better served through our behavior programs.)

Gold teams are often people who:

• want long-term guidance rather than random classes

• enjoy training regularly with their dog

• have sport, obedience, or working goals

• want to explore multiple activities without being locked into one path

• value community and training alongside other motivated teams

• appreciate individualized coaching tailored to their specific dog

You do not need to be a high-level competitor to join this program.

You do need to be motivated, curious, and excited to train.

What kinds of things do Gold teams train?

Every team is different, and the program is intentionally flexible.

Current and past Gold teams have trained in:

• AKC Rally

• AKC Obedience

• advanced real-world obedience

• herding

• Barnhunt

• dock diving

• parkour

• disc games

• sport foundations

• confidence and engagement work

• trial preparation and ring skills

You are not locked into a single sport or goal for the year. Many teams discover new interests as their dogs develop.

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What’s included?

• Year-long coaching and support

• Targeted semi-private training sessions

• Free rally and training drop-ins

• 50% off regular classes

• Priority access to working spots in workshops and special events

• Access to a supportive community of serious dog people who often train, travel, and compete together

Why keep the program small?

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Because good coaching requires time, observation, and consistency.

We want to know your dog well. We want to help you problem solve thoughtfully. We want the flexibility to pivot when goals change, injuries happen, confidence dips, or a dog suddenly discovers they love something entirely unexpected.

The small size of the program also creates a genuinely supportive training environment where dogs and handlers grow together over time.

Does the program work?

 

Our Gold teams have earned titles, placements, trial invitations, and new skills across multiple sports — but more importantly, they’ve developed thoughtful, capable partnerships with their dogs.

Many of our teams train together year after year, helping create the supportive and welcoming culture that makes Empire Ridge Ranch such a special place to train.

Program Details

Program runs January–December
Limited openings twice yearly
Two openings available June 2026

Investment: $2750

How do I apply?

If we already know you and your dog, simply reach out and ask whether your team would be a good fit.

If we haven’t met yet, contact us to schedule a conversation and evaluation so we can discuss your goals and determine whether the program is the right match for you and your dog.