Each of the progressively more intensive classes listed below meets for one hour, for five weeks.
Janet and Fido, training on stay-with-distractions command (2007)
Safety is our first priority. Before a dog is permitted to start any of class, I have a one-on-one conversation with the pet parent. Agreement to all requirements of our participation form must also be completed.
Note:
- Veterinary examination records, including up-to-date Distemper / Rabies vaccination, must be current
- Children over the age of ten may accompany a parent or guardian to class sessions, but must be able to handle sitting cooperatively for at least fifteen minutes at a time
See Contact Me page on this site to get in touch with me, ask questions, or start the class registration process.
Beginner Dog Training — Level 1
There are no prerequisites. This class is for dogs older than five months of age (for younger dogs, see “Puppy Training” below).
Overview: This first level of instruction is appropriate for dogs new to your household, as well as those who haven’t quite got “the fundamentals.” I will teach you to get the attention of your dog and have him or her follow basic commands.
Class details: LINK
Puppy Training — Level 1
There are no prerequisites. This class is for dogs between the ages of ten weeks and five months of age (for older dogs, see “Beginner Dog Training” above).
Overview: Although the content and format is similar as Beginner, the stage of development for young puppies makes socialization and focus a key component. Exercises will help build confidence in and out of the classroom.
I also like to remind pet parents that even a ten-week-old puppy (from any prior environment) can come into your household with his or her own thoughts on how the world works — often at odds with how your new world must work!
Class details: LINK
Intermediate Dog Training — Level 2
As prerequisite, your dog must have satisfactorily completed either a “Beginner” or “Puppy” class (as described above). This class is for dogs of any age.
Overview: This slightly more challenging level of instruction is designed to teach you how to maintain control over your dog in the face of random and varied distractions. We will help build your confidence in getting your dog to consistently follow commands outside of his or her familiar home environment. You and your dog will participate in all sessions, working on behavioral instruction (no “people only” lecture content)
Class details: LINK
Advanced Dog Training — Level 3
Prerequisite: Your dog must have satisfactorily completed an “Intermediate” class (as described above). This class is for dogs of any age.
Overview: This is generally considered the most extensive consumer-oriented level of instruction and geared for those interested in earning a Canine Good Citizen Certification. These sessions have been developed for people who enjoy getting out-and-about with their dogs with the possibility of therapy dog work in their future.
The goal, then, is to maintain control over your canine in a wide variety of challenging situations — such as when unfamiliar dogs are encountered — heeling through crowds of people, and keeping focus in the face of major distractions. At the end of five weeks pet parents will be given the opportunity to take the Canine Good Citizen test.
You and your dog will participate in all sessions, working on behavioral instruction (no “people only” lecture content).
Class details: LINK