Preparing for Class

​The Handler    

• Please bring a copy of your dog's vaccine records (certificate) or the invoice for these to your first class.  Passports do not provide expiry,  information.

• You are responsible for your dog – if your dog has an accident in class,  equipment is available for you to clean up (it happens to most of us).

• Keep your dog on a short leash when entering or leaving the building and respect the space of other dogs and humans.

• While one person may be the official trainer, consistency in the whole family is important.  Be prepared to train your family and friends.

 

Clothing              

• Please bring clean dry footwear to wear in the training rooms.

• Wear soft-soled shoes. Avoid floppy sandals, noisy shoes, or high heels.

• Avoid dresses or baggy pants, which may interfere with your dog moving around you  in training

• Pockets are helpful.

• A fanny pack, a doggy treat pouch, or a ziploc and a binder clip  (to attach it to your belt )  are great tools to keep your hands available.

 

Your Dog

• For your dog’s comfort and to help avoid accidents, withhold food for at least 2 hours before class and ensure your dog has had a bit of physical activity (not so much that they are wound up, but some).

• If your dog cannot come to class because of illness or surgery you can attend without your dog.

• You may wish to bring a stuffed Kong, dog mat, or favourite chew toy to help your dog settle at the Centre.  

• A familiar bed/blanket that is used as a resting place can be helpful to transition that calm behaviour to a new environment

• Bring a water bowl for your dog. Training and food rewards may increase their thirst. There are areas to fill the bowl  in the building. To prevent potential germ and disease transmission, we do not put out communal water bowls. We can supply water.

 

Equipment 

•  A six-foot clip on lead is recommended  – something you are comfortable stepping on. No extendable leashes.

• A flat collar or a harness.  No choke, prong or electronic collars.

• Your clicker if you have one.  We supply a clicker to all Puppy Manners and Socialization and Good Manners Level I registrants

• The food you are using to train in class (Small, Smelly, Soft, and a little variety is an effective strategy)

 

Training

• Is fun.  We focus on training the what to do and we work so that it is enjoyable for your dog and you.

• We will show you how to work so your dog is a willing, eager learner and a better companion than ever before.

 

Children & Dogs

•  All dogs can bite – children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times.