polaroid image of dogs playing outside at the canine connection

THE CANINE CONNECTION

Chico’s premier dog training, daycare, and boarding.

Our mission… to help build joyful, meaningful, and lasting connections between dogs and people!

We draw on leading edge knowledge of dog behavior and positive training to help you and your dog learn, play, and celebrate the human-canine bond.

Join us and experience the joy that is The Canine Connection!

 
dr. sarah richardson sitting on a bench with two dogs

Serving Generations of Dogs (and Their People!)

about the canine connection

Founded in 2002 by Dr. Sarah Richardson, The Canine Connection began with a simple goal: to provide Chico, California with humane, force-free dog training.

After realizing the area lacked positive reinforcement training options, Sarah opened The Academy to help dogs and their owners build meaningful, joyful connections through proven methods.

Soon clients were asking for play sessions, daycare, and overnight care, which led to the birth of The Resort, now a premier destination for dogs seeking fun and enrichment by day and while their owners are away.

happy dog standing on a purple riser in the training room

Training for a Stronger Bond & happy, healthy dog

the academy

We believe in building meaningful connections through positive reinforcement, helping dogs thrive at every stage of training and life.

Whether you're starting with a new puppy or adopted dog, refining advanced skills, learning a dog sport, or having behavior concerns, we’re here to support you and your dog every step of the way.

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Dogs standing on a picnic table outside at the resort

A Safe, Fun Place for Your Dog to Stay and play

the resort

The Canine Resort is your dog’s home away from home, providing a playful, safe, and comfortable environment with expert care that gives you peace of mind.

Whether your dog is here for enrichment-based daycare or staying overnight, they’ll be well cared for and happy during their time with us.

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three dogs playing outside at the canine connection

Some Facts About Us

23+

YEARS IN BUSINESS IN Chico, CA

10,000+

NUMBER OF DOGS HELPED

$150k+

raised for AREA animal shelters

70+

combined years of PRO experience OF our positive trainers

1st+

Modern DOG training, daycare, and resort in Chico area

200+

NUMBER OF DOGS FOSTERED BY OUR TEAM FOR SHELTERS AND RESCUES

COME. stay. LEARN. play.

where we’re located

The Academy

1188 East Lassen, Suite 2, Chico, CA 95973

(near the intersection of Cohasset and Lassen)

 

The Resort

10 Seville Court, Chico, CA 95928

(off Meyers Street)

 

What Others Are Saying…

headshot of a dark brown dog with curly hair
 

So very happy that we found this amazing place to bring our puppy.

The team of employees is professional, hardworking and has shown that the animals come first. With our pet being a part of our family, this has been very comforting to us.

If you need a place to bring your pet for lessons or daycare, try The Canine Connection and you won't be disappointed!!! Beautiful grounds, wonderful staff and my pup loves it. It's a sanctuary or fun retreat for your for baby. Both my pup and I are looking forward to our next visit.

- MARTY NELSON

 
happy dog laying on park bench outside
 

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

Ready for a Happier, Well-Trained dog?

Whether you're looking to strengthen your dog's skills or give them a fun, safe place to stay, The Canine Connection is here to help!