BEAST MODE DOG TRAINING CENTER
Why Choose Beast Mode Dog Training Center?
At Beast Mode, we believe dog training is about building a trusting relationship, not just teaching commands.
Rooted in canine science and positive reinforcement, our small-group classes help dogs gain real-world skills—like walking calmly on busy streets or settling at a café—while keeping learning fun and stress-free.
As part of the vibrant Bernal Heights pet community and surrounded by some of the top pet shops in San Francisco, we’re proud to offer ongoing support through refreshers, coaching, and community events long after class ends.
Our Classes
Not sure where to start?
Level 1: Puppy Foundations
Age: Puppies up to 18 weeks
Focus: Socialization, confidence building, and basic cues (sit, stay, come)
Length: 4 weeks (1 hour/week)
Format: Small group
Designed for young pups and first-time pet parents, this class sets the stage for a lifetime of learning.
Your puppy will build confidence, practice polite play, and learn early communication skills—all in a safe, positive environment.
Level 2: Beyond the Basics
Age: Dogs who’ve completed Puppy or Adult Foundations Level 1 (or equivalent)
Focus: Advanced recall, leash work, neutrality around other dogs, off-leash readiness
Length: 4 weeks (1 hour/week)
Format: Small group, real-world focus
Build stronger focus, reliable responses even with distractions, and a deeper connection with your dog through engaging, confidence-boosting exercises.
Level 3: Real World Manners
Age: Dogs of all ages who know the basics
Focus: Leash manners, impulse control, polite greetings, focus under distraction
Length: 4 weeks (1 hour/week)
Format: Small group, positive reinforcement
Turn “good at home” skills into “good anywhere” skills.
This class helps your dog practice reliable behaviors in real-life settings—making walks, playdates, and public outings calmer and more enjoyable.
Coming Soon!
Level 1: Adult Foundations
Age: Adult Dogs
Focus: Socialization, confidence building, and basic cues (sit, stay, come)
Length: 4 weeks (1 hour/week)
Format: Small group
Designed for adult or newly adopted dogs, this class builds confidence, structure, and clear communication through foundational training—whether they’re learning for the first time or starting fresh.
Just like college electives, our Skill Boosters keep your dog’s training fresh and engaging. These single-session workshops are perfect for brushing up on existing skills or mastering one specific behavior—no long-term commitment required.
Tricks Workshop
Age: All ages
Focus: Fun tricks like Sit Pretty, Play Bow, Roll Over
Length: 1 hour
Format: Small group, playful learning
Want to have fun and deepen communication? Join this playful session to teach your dog awesome tricks that strengthen your bond and bring smiles all around.
Price: $50
Recall Workshop
Age: All ages
Focus: Improving “come when called” and handler focus under distraction
Length: 1 hour
Format: Small group, active environment
Sharpen your dog's response to recall in fun, real-world settings—indoors and out. Great for fine-tuning focus and confidence, ideal for friendly pups.
Price: $50
Loose-Leash Walking Workshop
Age: All ages
Focus: Leash-walking skills at your own pace
Length: 1 hour
Format: Drop-in or repeat as needed
Tired of pulling on walks? This relaxed workshop helps your dog learn calm and enjoyable leash manners—perfect for all skill levels.
Price: $50
Short, trainer-led sessions focused on safe socialization, confidence-building, and positive experiences around other dogs. Perfect for practice, play, and connection—without the commitment of a multi-week course.
Puppy Social
Age: Puppies (vaccinated at least one week prior)
Focus: Socialization, bite inhibition, energy burn-off
Length: 45 minutes
A safe, trainer-led space for pups to play, learn self-control, and use up puppy energy. Great for early socialization and building confidence around other dogs.
Price: $25
Every Saturdays at 11:45 AM–12:30 PM
Little Beast Yappy Hour
Age/Size: Small Dogs (maximum of 20lbs.)
Focus: Socialization, bite inhibition, energy burn-off
Length: 45 minutes
A safe, social space for small dogs (under 20 lbs) to play, mingle, and build confidence while you relax and enjoy a BYOB (max of 2 drinks) happy hour with fellow pet parents.
The schedule varies monthly. Check our social media for upcoming dates.
Price: $25
Private Training Option
Age: Any (puppy or adult)
Focus: Personalized guidance—behavior help, training advice, support
Length: 30 minutes
Format: One-on-one session
Short on time but need tailored help? Not sure which course or class to take? Book a one-on-one “Ask the Trainer” session for focused, expert advice on training or behavior concerns—perfect for busy schedules.
How Our Process Works
Choose Your Class – Explore our dog class offerings and find the right fit for your dog. Make sure that you’ll be able to commit to the schedule and duration you picked so you can make the most of our classes!
Register Online – Secure your spot immediately! We keep our class attendance small, and that means slots fill up fast. Make sure to register as soon as you can.
Check your class requirement – Some of our classes require certain requirements (i.e., vaccination, adoption papers, etc.). Make sure you bring them to class if needed!
Enjoy the Training Journey – Attend the class and have a blast! Interact with other furparents and ask our trainers while you’re there.
Meet Steph
Steph has been helping dogs and their humans live happier lives for over 25 years. A graduate of the SF SPCA Academy for Dog Trainers, she’s taught everything from puppy socials to advanced manners at some of the Bay Area’s top training spots.
In 2005, she co-founded SF Puppy Prep, the city’s first puppy-only daycare and training center, inspired by the power of early socialization. She’s also Family Paws certified, giving her a special knack for helping families safely introduce dogs to babies and kids. Whether working with a brand-new puppy or tackling tricky behavior challenges, Steph brings a wealth of experience, a love for learning, and a big smile to every class.
Meet Erika
Erika has been helping San Francisco’s dogs and their people for over a decade, with a focus on making training both effective and fun.
She holds multiple dog training accreditations, including CPDT-KA, from the Canine Behavior Academy (2010), and the SF SPCA Dog Training Internship Program (2011). As an AKC CGC & Trick Title evaluator, she teaches agility, tricks, and specialty classes at Golden Gate Dog Sports, and has extensive experience in shelter management, behavior evaluations, and enrichment programs for dogs in need.
Meet Llyr
Llyr Lauderback, CTC (they/he) has worked with dogs and their humans for over 20 years. Founder of Ruff Riders K-9 Adventures in San Francisco, Llyr later earned their certification from the Academy for Dog Trainers in 2008.
Using science-based, reward-focused methods, Llyr helps clients build trusting relationships with their dogs through humane, positive reinforcement strategies. A dedicated lifelong learner, they believe that with the right tools and guidance, any owner can raise an emotionally healthy, well-mannered dog in both urban and rural environments.
