Description
This 45-minute class is a foundation skills class for dogs of all ages (over 4 months old) with limited or without prior group training.
What is covered?
- How to Train: Introduction and Using Markers
Start with the basics of effective dog training. Learn how to use markers, such as clickers or verbal cues, to clearly communicate with your dog and reinforce positive behavior. Understanding the timing and consistency of markers is key to successful training. - Introduction to Basic Behaviors such as
- Sit: Teach your dog to sit on command, an essential skill for managing behavior in various situations.
- Down: Learn how to train your dog to lie down, promoting calmness and control.
- Stand: Introduce the “stand” command, useful for grooming, vet visits, and everyday handling.
- Stay: Develop your dog’s ability to stay in place, regardless of distractions, which is crucial for safety and control.
- Introduction to Loose Leash Walking
Begin teaching your dog to walk politely on a leash without pulling. This skill is fundamental for enjoyable walks and helps prevent unwanted behavior like lunging or pulling. - Focus Behaviors
Train your dog to focus on you, the handler, even in the presence of distractions. Focus behaviors are critical for maintaining control in various environments. - Recall
Introduce the recall command, ensuring your dog returns to you when called. This is one of the most important skills for safety and off-leash activities. - Settling Behaviors
Teach your dog how to settle down and relax on command, whether at home, in public, or during social interactions. This promotes calmness and helps manage your dog’s energy levels. - Prepping for Vet Exams (Husbandry Skills)
Prepare your dog for stress-free vet visits and grooming sessions by introducing husbandry skills. Your dog will learn to tolerate handling, ear checks, nail trims, and other routine care tasks, making these experiences more comfortable for both of you.
If you meet the attendance & age requirements, and your puppy qualifies, you are also eligible to earn the AKC S.T.A.R Puppy Certification!
Prerequisites: Dogs of all ages, with or without group training experience are welcome .
THIS CLASS IS NOT SUITABLE FOR REACTIVE DOGS If your dog is unable to settle in class within the first two weeks, the instructor will recommend private training
Please email the instructor if you are not sure what this means or to see if your dog will be considered reactive for this class.
Students are advised to remain at this class level until their dogs have reasonable fluency with the skills taught.
BRING TO CLASS:
- Lots of small, moist treats
- Favorite toy & food filled toy such as Kong.
- Mat (such as a bathmat)
- Flat collar, martingale or back-clip harness (no front-clip harnesses, prong, choke or e-collars allowed)
- 6ft leash (no retractable)
