Introduction
Dogs go through a socialization period from about the first 4 weeks to 15 weeks of their lives.
In this time it is crucial to get them around other dogs of all ages, people from all walks of life, and other animals.
Not only should they be exposed to other living creatures, but they also need to be exposed to different environments and contexts. We want to teach them that the changing world is a wonderful thing! This is why puppy class is a necessary part of your pup's journey!
It is our position, as well as the position of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB), that puppies can and should attend classes even if they have not completed their full round of vaccinations. The AVSAB position statement reads, “In general, puppies can start puppy socialization classes as early as 7-8 weeks of age. Puppies should receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days prior to the first class and a first deworming. They should be kept up-to-date on vaccines throughout the class.” You can read their full position statement HERE.
For information on how to properly socialize your puppy, please check out the following articles from some of our favorite sources:
Socializing your puppy: why “later” is too late
Properly socializing your puppy
The Classes
Puppy Kindergarten 1
Puppy Kindergarten 1
In this class, your puppy will have the opportunity to be exposed to other puppies of various breeds and sizes, meet new people, and experience a new and exciting environment!
*Puppies must be 20 weeks or under at the start of the course (orientation) in order to qualify for registration for this class. Dogs 21 weeks and over should register for a Basic Class.
Not Your Standard Puppy Class:
Your pup will learn Sit, Down, Come, Drop It, Introduction to Leash Walking, Intro to Mat Training, Potty Training and solutions for Nipping/Mouthing. You will also work on handling/grooming, pretend vet visits and socializing with other pups.
You and your pup will also learn fun and exciting ways to maintain engagement and connection. This class is all about teaching your pup to LOVE working with you and to teach you what your puppy needs to thrive. We are happy to say that we have a unique and cutting-edge curriculum!
A.K.C. STAR PUPPY test can be given at the end of Puppy Kindergarten 2
Pricing
*6 week course = $275 (maximum 8 enrollees).
Class will meet at the same day/time each week for the duration of the course unless specified otherwise. For example, if you sign up for a Saturday class at 9:30a, you will attend each Saturday at 9:30a for 6 weeks.
What’s Included:
- Online access to homework that contains written explanation and videos of exercises and information covered in class plus BONUS material.
- Access to private Puppy Facebook page where you can find extra tips and support.
- Email support
- Personal attention from trainers and assistants in the classroom to help you succeed as well as answer your questions.
The first class is an orientation WITHOUT your puppy.We use this first hour of class to discuss how to set your puppy up for success at home and address any issues that you may be experiencing (can anyone say, “nipping?”). We also discuss the class structure, expectations and our training philosophy.
Week 1/Orientation may be held virtually only. You will be notified prior to the start of your class.
Puppy Kindergarten 1 - Open Enrollment
Start and come ANYTIME. These classes work differently than our standard puppy k 1 classes, which are linear. The Puppy K 1 Open Enrollment course is designed for people that can't make linear classes. Each week is a different theme, which everyone will be doing for the first time together. For example, if you start class at week 4, your six weeks will be 4, 5, 6, 1, 2, 3.
Week 1 - Attention/Engagement, Down, Mat Work, Drop It, Socialization
Week 2 - Sit, Down, Mat Work, Drop It, Socialization
Week 3 - Polite Greetings, Mat Work, Drop It, Socialization
Week 4- Leash Walking, Down, Mat Work, Drop It, Socialization
Week 5 - Recall, Down, Mat Work, Drop It, Socialization
Week 6 - Leave It, Down, Mat Work, Drop It, Socialization, Puppy S.T.A.R. (for graduates)
$45/class
6 week rolling curriculum
This class is designed for puppies 18 weeks and under
Saturdays 9am
$45/Class
*Students are able to be evaluated for the A.K.C. STAR PUPPY test at the end of this course.
Puppy Kindergarten 2- Open Enrollment
Start and come ANYTIME. These classes work differently than our standard Puppy K 2/Basic 2 classes, which are linear. The Puppy K2/B2 Open Enrollment course is designed for people that can't make linear classes. Each week is a different theme, which everyone will be doing for the first time together. For example, if you start class at week 4, your five weeks will be 4, 5, 1, 2, 3. We will also practice behaviors previously learned in PK1/B1 each class (Recall, Leave It, Loose Leash Walking, etc.).
Week 1 - Sit/Down Stay with duration, Mat Work
Week 2 - Sit/Down Stay with distraction, Mat Work
Week 3 - Sit/Down Stay with distance, Mat Work and Wait
Week 4- Side/Heel, Mat Work, and Wait
Week 5 - Touch/Engagement, Mat Work and Wait
$45/class
5 week rolling curriculum
Saturdays 10:30am