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What will you and your dog learn?
Our Novice obedience programs cover all the basic commands: sit, down, stay, heel, come, and stand for examination. A dedicated student will be able to demonstrate all of these commands off-leash at the end of the program. Students with difficult dogs will solve behavior problems by developing reliable obedience, even in distracting real-world situations. Thus, a student should readily pass the Canine Good Citizen test (CGC) and perform basic Novice level competitive obedience exercises with ease.
The process of obedience training is the path we use to develop the mental and emotional maturity and reliable good character we want to see in our student’s dogs. Deeper objectives for what your dog is expected to achieve include: attentiveness to the handler, responsibility, self-discipline, subordination, patience, resignation, and accountability.
Where are classes held? What’s included in the cost?
Classes are held at our easy-to-find Twin Lake address. Included is a training collar, high-quality 6ft leather leash and 15ft cotton lead (both are made specifically for our students to learn proper leash handling techniques), plus a manual and weekly handouts with instructions for homework assignments. This equipment is valued at $50!
Do we allow all breeds? What about aggressive dogs?
We welcome students with any breed of dog, including dogs with a history of aggression. Our class is designed to keep everyone as safe as possible, while also allowing every responsible dog owner the opportunity to develop a safe and reliable companion dog.
Is my dog too old/ too young for your Novice class?
Karen recommends that dogs start the Novice program at about 6 months or older. Young puppies lack the maturity needed for the concepts involved at the Novice level, especially when the leash comes off. All dogs are expected to mature mentally and emotionally throughout their training, while still retaining their fun-loving character.
Mature, older dogs (even dogs with bad habits ingrained in their behavior) are fully capable of learning new, more desired habits through this training class, and they are all welcome. As long as a dog is healthy enough physically and mentally to attend class, can participate in daily training sessions with their handler, and is willing to learn, he should be able to benefit from training, no matter what his age. If you are unsure if your dog is ready or able to attend a class, contact us and we’ll help you determine if and when the time is right.
Are you ready? Come visit!
Inquiring students are welcome to attend the first session without advance payment, but registration is required for all. We recommend that you register early to reserve your place in class and receive a discount.
When is the next class going to start?
Our students are required to train their dog in a variety of locations, often outdoors, on a daily basis for the best results. It is very difficult for most people to train effectively when Michigan’s winter weather strikes. We will not be scheduling a new Novice class until April of 2012 for this reason. If you would like to be placed on a list to receive our newsletter and class schedule updates, please contact Karen. We’d love to have you join us next year for class! If you need help NOW, contact us NOW! Let us know how we can help!
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