Puppy Primer (8-16 weeks)
This clicker training class (see clicker training description) is geared toward young ones 8-16 weeks old. Puppy class is the most important class you can take because this age is a puppy’s “critical socialization window,” when puppies are learning what is scary and what is safe. It’s important for us to expose them to lots of positive experiences with different places, people, and things during this time; their experiences now will set the tone for the rest of their lives. In addition, you will learn all the right things to do with your pup right from the start! Classes focus on two things—socializing your puppy and teaching some basic manners. To help socialize your pup we include 1-2 structured play times with the other pups in the class, as well as exposure to potentially scary everyday things like vacuums, baby strollers, shovels or umbrellas. All of these “monsters” are paired with something positive, like food, to help improve your puppy’s association with them. To help your puppy become a polite member of your family, we also teach you how to train a few of the basics: name recognition, sit, down, touch, polite leash walking, and coming when called. All excellent foundation behaviors to get you and your pup started on the right path toward a long, happy, rewarding life together!
IMPORTANT: The first week of this class is an education and information session without dogs. In this orientation class we will discuss clicker training theory; practice using the clicker to get some skills; and explain what to bring to your first class with your puppy.
The class fee is $125.00 and runs for 5 weeks.
