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.