Puppy Socialization Classes

Puppy Socialization:

I no longer teach this course. However, the hand-out are a popular item on my web site so I keep them available for those who are interested. I've also have a resource page with books that may be of interest. Most of the books are available through amazon.com.

Class Introduction

The puppy socialization class focuses on helping you develop a good relationship with your puppy by giving you skills for training and problem-solving. The goal is a relationship in which your puppy regards the human members of its family with trust and respect. You can gain the trust of you puppy by behaving consistently regarding your puppy's actions. You can gain your puppy's respect by making thoughtful decisions regarding you puppy's life.

The class emphasizes reinforcing good behavior so it is more likely to occur again. You will learn techniques for teaching your puppy to obey commands. A puppy has a short attention span so it is not expected that your puppy will understand and obey every command with precision. That will come with experience and maturity. When you learn how to teach your puppy you will have a tool that you can use throughout your dog's life.

Class Guidelines:

• Please be prompt. We will start on time and end on time.
• The doors will be locked shortly after class starts. This is to allow for a safe off-leash puppy playtime.
• We will provide treats. If your puppy has special food needs or you know a special treat that your puppy would really work for, please bring it.
• One clicker is provided. Additional clickers can be purchased for $2.00 each.
• Every week there will be time for questions. Please prepare some.

Home Training Guidelines:

• Train you puppy in short training sessions of no more than 5 minutes each. Spread several sessions throughout the day or integrate training into other activities.
• Keep your training sessions fun. Stop any training session if you are feeling angry or frustrated.
• Never hit your puppy.
• Expose your puppy to as many different, positive experiences as possible. Include a variety of people, places and things in your puppy's life.
• Take the opportunity to reward good behavior.
• Prevent problems by confining your puppy when you can't supervise its actions.
• Do work with you puppy between class meetings. You'll get more out of the meetings that way.

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