Question 1

How long are classes and what do they entail?

Accepted Answer

Each class is one hour long.  During the hour, you will be shown how to do certain exercises and practice them with your dog.  We will guide you so you are doing them correctly. 
 
Weekly lessons are available on the Lessons tab.  Your instructor will give you the password to access them.  You will work on these exercises over the week so you are ready for the next class.
 
There are discussion periods to help you understand your dog and question & answer periods to address issues. 
 
Puppy Preschool is off leash - training is interspersed with play.
There are short playtimes in Puppy Primer.
Other classes may have playtimes depending on the personalities of the dogs in the class.
 
Each dog receives a personalized certificate on graduation night.

Question 2

How many dogs will there be in the class?

Accepted Answer

Generally, there is a maximum of 6 dogs in each class.  This allows us to give more one-on-one attention to each student. 
Focus & Control is limited to 4 dogs.
Puppy Preschool could have up to 10 pups.

Question 3

Can I come and watch a class before registering?

Accepted Answer

Most definitely!!  We encourage you to observe a class before signing up.  Check the schedule on our home page to see what nights and times classes are running. Just give us a heads up if you plan on attending.

Question 4

How do I know which class to take?

Accepted Answer

First, read over the class descriptions, particularly age requirements and prerequisites.
 
If you are still unsure, please contact us either from our contact page, by email, facebook message or phone.  We will help you determine which class best suits you and your dog.

Question 5

What do I need to bring to class?

Accepted Answer

We use lure and reward training so you will need treats that can be broken into very small pieces.  They must be something your dog really likes.  
 
You will also need a collar or harness and a 4 to 6 foot leash (no retractable leashes).  
 
NOTE:  We do not allow choke or prong collars. Martingale collars are allowed for dogs that can escape a normal collar. Gentle Leaders can be used temporarily for training purposes.
 
Bring your positive attitude, dress comfortably and be prepared to have some fun!

Question 6

Can you suggest what type of treats to use?

Accepted Answer

First and foremost, they must be something your dog likes.
 
You also want to consider the fat content. 
 
For the first couple of weeks, you will be using a lot of treats. Keep them small - about half the size of your pinky fingernail.
 
Your dog will be somewhat distracted by the activity in class and may need something enticing.  These would be considered high value treats.
 
Dried liver treats work particularily well.  Boiled chicken is also good.  
Weiners and cheese tend to be of high value to dogs but use them sparingly.
 
Some dogs love carrots, cucumbers or apples so you could cut some into tiny pieces.
 
Check at your favourite pet store for good quality soft treats that you can break into pieces.
 
Dogs will work for kibble when they are hungry and is a good option when you are training at home without distractions.  You can use part of their daily food allowance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are classes and what do they entail?

How many dogs will there be in the class?

Can I come and watch a class before registering?

How do I know which class to take?

What do I need to bring to class?

Can you suggest what type of treats to use?