Puppy Course Outline

Dogs must have had the second vaccination and be under four months when they start.

Occasionally small, older pups join the class for socialisation.

Aims

• Socialisation and play
• Responsible dog ownership
• Introduction to basic obedience

The Course:

• Runs for four weeks
• At least two off lead play times each session
• Topic for discussion each week

Week 1

General Care of the pup:

• Feeding
• Vaccinations and worming
• Hygiene
• Sleeping (including use of crates)
• Exercise (limited until the dog is an adult)
• Housetraining
• Puppies and children Puppies and other animals Collars and leads

Training - recall

Week 2
Grooming, and the importance of touching your dog all over in preparation for visits to the vet etc.
Training - sit (stand - for the dogs that require more grooming)

Week 3

• Socialisation
• Signs of aggression
• How to deal with aggression
• The importance of exposing the young dog to a variety of situations

Training - drop/down, and give

Week 4

• Scary things such as storms, fireworks, lawnmowers etc.
• Expectations for the beginner course

Training - review come, sit, drop

General training throughout the course

• Emphasis on the dog reacting immediately to the command or being assisted into position.
• Focus on just one skill at a time
• Choose an appropriate time to train (set the scene for success)
• Stopping unacceptable behaviour before it becomes a habit
• Tone of voice and posture

Notes are given out at the end of each session. They include information on what has been covered as well as-jumping, digging, mouthing/biting, and dominant dogs.