A COURTEOUS CANINE

GENERAL CLASS INFORMATION

STARTING TIME: All classes begin promptly! We appreciate your being on time as we run several classes during the day.

ATTENDANCE: To get the most from our program, class attendance is important! If you must miss a class, please call your instructor. You are permitted to one free make up class. Additional make up sessions can be arranged with your instructor and will be billed at our hourly private training rate @ $75.00 hour.  

CLASS CANCELLATION: We train rain or shine, however in the event of severe weather or adverse road conditions, we will cancel class. You will be contacted directly before the scheduled start of the class.  

EQUIPMENT: The following equipment is required for all classes:  

Ø       6ft leather, nylon or cotton web leash

Ø       Leather, nylon or cotton web flat buckle collar. Note! Please no quick release or Velcro release collars.

Ø      15,20 or 30ft leather, nylon or cotton web long line.

Ø       Brush and or comb.

Ø       Treat bag or pouch (optional)  

CLOTHING: Comfortable clothing is best for training. You will have to get down on the ground with your dog at times. The best shoes for training are low heels with rubber soles. Running and tennis shoes are ideal. Sandals, platform or high heels are not appropriate.  

EXERCISE & FEEDING: Be sure to exercise your dog before class. If an accident happens, keep your dog in one place. Doggie bags will be available for you to clean up after you dog. Do not work your dog for at least two hours after a meal. This means bringing them to class as well. Give a small snack before training if you are not using treats for reward.  

SPECTATORS: Visitors are welcome, but must remain quiet during class. We always welcome spectators and we hope you will tell your friends and relatives about our classes.  

SAFETY RULES: Students must comply with the instructor or assistants directions at all times. Many dogs react unfavorably to alcohol and some medications; therefore, NO ONE IS PERMITTED TO TRAIN IN CLASS IF THERE IS ANY INDICATION OF IMPAIRMENT!!!!.  Due to health and safety concerns, smoking is not permitted in class or within 300ft of the training area.  

WHO SHOULD TRAIN: We encourage the entire family to attend training and participate in the training. By having all members of the family participate teaching and training, your companion will learn faster, be more reliable and respond to all members of the household. MINORS under the age of 18 may attend classes. However they MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN DURING CLASS! There will be no exception to this requirement.  

WHEN & WHERE TO TRAIN AT HOME: Dogs learn by repetition. In order to be successful you have to practice with your dog. The formula is simple, two to three sessions each lasting five to seven minutes each day x five days a week=SUCCESS!. It is the practice at home that will bring you success. Class time is to teach you what to teach your dog at home.

          Choose a quiet area to work with you dog so that you can be the center of attention. Don’t work your dog directly after feeding him. Two to three short training sessions are better than one long session.

          In addition to setting aside specific times to train you dog, you will want to start making him obey you with the training techniques you are learning. Use the training methods we show you whenever you want you dog to behave with or without a training collar and leash.  

BOOKS & ADVICE: Well meaning friends and relatives can give you the wrong advice about training. To get the most from our program, use the techniques and procedures you will be shown in class. If you have any difficulty, call us right away and will assist you.

          If you are interested in a book on dog training, “DOG TRAINING FOR DUMMIES” by Jack and Wendy Volhard gives you comprehensive information about the training approach used in our classes. This method works for most handlers and dogs; however, if you need special assistance, the experience and education of your instructor and assistants enables us to select the right approach for your dog.  

LEASH TRAINING: For students dogs that have never been on a leash. We offer the following schedule of introduction:  

Ø       Place a buckle collar on your dog or puppy until he becomes used to it. Allow a few days for this.

Ø       Attach a lightweight leather, nylon or cotton web leash or a length of lightweight cord about twice the length of you dog to his collar, and let your dog drag it around. Keep an eye on him to make sure the leash doesn’t wrap around a chair leg or a tree. Don’t leave it on when you aren’t supervising.

Ø       Once your dog is ignoring the line or leash, pick up the end and hold it. Do not apply any pressure. Follow you dog, keeping the line slack. Work for a total of ten minutes on this.

Ø       After your dog is used to being on the end of the leash while you hold it, the final step is for you to coax him in the direction you wish to go. Do not allow the leash to tighten without immediately loosening up again, and tell your pup or dog good dog when he is walking with you.  

We hope this covers any questions you may have about our class. If you require any additional please contact us at 208-466-9547 or training@acourteouscanine.com and we will be happy to assist you. We look forward to seeing you in class!