Group Classes – Sports, Tricks & Fun

“Every interaction is a learning interaction”

ThunderHawk Canine is very excited to be expanding our group classes in HUGE ways! All classes are taught at Thunderhawk’s Academy on 111 in Cookeville TN unless otherwise noted. In an effort to continue meeting the needs of the Upper Cumberland pet owner, we are also offering classes taught by guest instructors! So check it out – we probably have what you are looking for!

Unless otherwise specified, classes are taught by Certified Thunderhawk Instructors who have passed an Industry Standard Board Exam. For Thunderhawk Trainers to earn our official stamp of approval, they must have trained within our specific program for a minimum of 12 months, and have passed an exam demonstrating a strong working understanding of behavior, instruction, ethology and physiology.

All class registration is handled online, unless specified in description

Puppy Kindergarten

Scent Work Classes

$150 / 7 Weeks

Canine Scent work is a sport inspired by police and military scent detection work. The only difference is that, instead of bombs or drugs, our civilian canine classes will teach dogs to search for the “target odors” used in AKC Scent Work trials (Birch, Anise, Clove, and Cypress).

This is an activity that ALL dogs can benefit from. It’s low impact, so dogs of all ages can play! And, since this is a team sport, where your dog gets to take the lead, it can be especially beneficial for shy and excitable dogs, helping them to gain confidence and learn to focus. It will also teach the handler to read their dog’s body language.

Our six-week course, Introduction to Scent Work, will be focused on the basic elements of AKC Scent Work and searching the four (4) primary search “elements” (containers, interiors, exteriors, and vehicles) for Birch. We will also discuss Scent Theory while we’re searching to help handlers understand what their dogs are doing and why.

All classes are taught by Maria Ruoto. Maria is extremely accomplished in this sport! Read her full bio HERE. 

UPCOMING SESSIONS:

Academy on 111:
Intermediate – Tuesdays at 5:00pm 

Advanced – Tuesdays at 6:30pm 

Intermediate – Wednesdays at 5:00pm 

Intro – TBD – contact us if interested!!

Puppy Kindergarten

Rally Obedience
Guest Instructor – Sherry Spivey

$150 / 6 Weeks

This is a six week class for those interested in learning about the sport of Rally or continuing on the skills they have already established! Rally is a sport that showcases the team work between dog and handler. It is less strict than most competitive obedience. You are allowed to talk and encourage your dog.

Suitable for all ages and types of dogs, must be a minimum of six months of age. Basic obedience commands will be utilized and expanded upon, so a good understanding of loose leash walking, sit and down stay is required.

Each week we will be learning the various signs applicable to the novice level rally courses and how to begin to put them together for an actual novice course. A full course will be run on the last night of class. All work is done on leash. You should bring lots of treats to reward your dog as you both learn the ins and outs of Rally. A four foot leash and whichever collar you normally use. Class will be fast paced!

To view Sherry’s bio – click HERE

Email – Gsdspivey@gmail.com – to enroll

UPCOMING SESSIONS:

Academy on 111:
Intro / Beginner / Novice 
Tuesdays 9:00am

Advanced / Excellent
Tuesdays 10:45am

Basic Obedience copy

Small Movement Puzzles

$150 / 7 Weeks

We’re thrilled to announce our new Small Movement Puzzle Class! Perfect for dogs of all ages, this class focuses on calm, brain-powered challenges that build confidence, focus, and problem-solving skills. Whether your dog is anxious, overexcited, or just needs a new outlet, this is for you. Spots are limited so sign up now!

INTRO 

Academy on 111:
Thursdays at 8:00pm – Starting September 4, 2025

INTERMEDIATE

Academy on 111:
Thursdays at 7:00 pm – Starting September 4, 2025
Thursdays at 12:15pm – Starting September 4, 2025

Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor Adventures

$5 / Dog / Session

This is a fun and interactive class that allows you to put your obedience into a different setting. We meet at Cane Creek City Park. The class consists of a 2-mile walk around the lake, taking numerous stops for obedience activities. Keep an eye on our Facebook page or visit back for our next date!! This class is drop-in only – no preregistration.

UPCOMING SESSIONS:

Currently meeting the second Sunday of every month at 4pm

Canine Good Citizen
Urban Adventures

$5 / Dog / Session

Join us at Dogwood Park (meeting at the Amphitheater) for a ~1.5 mile walk through downtown Cookeville and around the West Side. This class is set up as an environmental enrichment class, mentally exercising your dog by helping them interact with the world in different ways. See the world through the eyes of your dog!! Given the format of this class, it is not appropriate for dogs who struggle with reactivity or any level of aggression.

UPCOMING SESSIONS:

Currently meeting the second Sunday of every month at 4pm. Please keep an eye on our Facebook page for any changes.

Book any of our services here!

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