Class Guidelines
WELCOME! So that everyone’s class experience is enjoyable, safe, and successful, please:
Always keep your dog close to you and under proper leash control- it is always our responsibility to prevent our dogs from bothering others in life! And, although we want to have fun in class, this is not “puppy playtime”, this is “doggie school!” 🙂
Arrive with enough time before class begins to exercise your dog outside, let them unwind and “do their business” if needed, and get settled into the class. Always have scoop bags with you anytime you have your dog out and about- it is our responsibility as dog owners, plus it is just polite!
Turn off or put cell phones on vibrate so as not to disturb others and the class- Thank You!
“Top Ten Training Tips”
- Be a “Kind, Calm, Confident Pack Leader” and have a “Leadership Lifestyle” 24/7. We are “always training”, whether we realize it or not!
- “A Tired Dog is a Good Dog”- Lots of daily exercise is key! Walks on leash, yard and home play, interactive toys, obedience training, etc. – EVERY DAY!
- Know your own dog- breed(s)/type, maturity level, personality, temperament, health, and history.
- Be patient and fair, and consistent and persistent with training commands and family rules. Always be thinking steps ahead of your dog, to help prevent issues and guide them in the right direction.
- Give a command ONCE, have them do it, then praise them…Every Time…No Nagging!
- Understand canine instinct and use balanced training to develop a happy, comfortable, loving, mutually productive partnership with your dog.
- Dogs have great long-term memories, however their short-term attention spans can be very quick, and we also need to teach impulse control. So, immediately “mark” behaviors- mark desirable behaviors with praise (happy words, smiles, treats if desired), mark undesirable behaviors with interruption/correction (verbal command, noise, bitter spray), then redirect and immediately praise proper behavior- we want to focus on the positive!
- Keep your dog healthy- preventative veterinary care for vaccines and parasite control, premium quality diet (maintain proper weight!), keep them clean and groomed, lots of daily mental and physical stimulation and exercise.
- Use proper training equipment- our favorites are the Starmark Pro-Training “Good Dog” Collar, 6′ nylon, cotton, or leather leash, high quality treats (if desired), and Bitter Apple spray.
- Do the best you can with what you have to work with! Every dog is different, every person is different, and everyone’s lives are different- develop a plan that works best for your family and your dog, and focus on making the best of it all!