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Group Classes - PROOF OF VACCINATIONS REQUIRED AT FIRST MEETING Puppy Elementary Click Here For Current Schedule This 90-minute class, originally developed for Woods Humane Society, is targeted to dogs 4 months and older with little or no prior training. The class combines 3 phases of learning. The first is simple command challenges — sit, stay, come, down. Using games and (optional) clickers this portion of class also includes focus and impulse control exercises. The second phase involves advancing your dog's socialization with dogs, strangers and new environments. The third phase incorporates discussion and solutions regarding universal puppy/dog behaviors such as nipping, jumping and barking. The class will also address other behavior issues you may be experiencing at home. More serious behavior problems, such as increased aggression with people or dogs, fearfulness or escaping, will not be discussed at length in class as they may call for more extensive work, and will likely require a home visit from a trainer. In addition to the training exercises and activities, we will guide you through a comprehensive puppy massage. This class also offers an optional field trip to the local dog park to discover more about canine socialization and communication. Dogma High Click Here For Current Schedule Dogma High is open to dogs of any age that have some primary knowledge of the basic commands: sit, stay, come, down. The class will review these commands and then take them to the next level employing minimal distractions and increased duration to strengthen your dog's response. This class also teaches focus and impulse control with exercises such as the "name game" and "leave it," utilizing effective clicker training techniques (the clicker is recommended, but optional). Class activities and exercises may incorporate socializing, loose leash walking techniques and calming ovals. This class presents a fun-filled, action-packed challenge for both you and your dog. An optional field trip to the dog park is also included. Good Dogma U. Click Here For Current Schedule Our most advanced class, Good Dogma U, is designed to reinforce and add challenge to basic commands your dog has mastered. We'll take the loose leash heel to the next step, working off leash and incorporating turns, halts, speed variations and distractions. The class will also practice distance commands, hand signals, and begin the phasing out of lures and treats. An optional Saturday field trip to the dog park will be included. Good Dogma U will also review the 10 exercises required for your dog to pass the AKC Canine Good Citizenship test. An opportunity to take the test at the last class meeting can be arranged with prior notice to the instructors. Private Instruction* Private instruction is extremely beneficial if your dog has behavior issues, or you are not able to make it to a class. With private instruction we are able to focus on whatever you feel needs work, you set the agenda. Whether it be jumping on counters (or people), barking, pulling on the leash, digging, or just basic obedience work. Private instruction is divided into 2 parts, theory and practice. The first part includes taking a history/background of you and your family's routines with the dog, and learning how human behavior will affect the behavior of the dog. The second part involves putting into practice your new knowledge, engaging your dog more efficiently to elicit the appropriate response. Private instruction sessions run between 60-90 minutes. *Two lesson committment required, and payment in full is due at conclusion of first meeting. Seminars & Workshops Brief, one-day sessions on important subjects for all owners and prospective owners. Seminars (for humans only) and workshops (bring your furry ones) vary in price, and are held in various convenient locations. Click here to see what's coming up. Communication Skills It cannot be stressed enough that learning to speak the language of your dog is critical to getting the response or behavior you desire. It is Good Dogma's mission to teach people how to use both their body and voice in unison to reinforce correct responses/behavior and extinguish inappropriate responses/behavior. Behavior Modification Good Dogma uses a tool bag of methods including, positive reinforcement, sound aversion, toys, and treats to change problem behaviors. We do not believe in using punishment as a tool to change behavior. Basic Clicker Training A clicker is a small hand held tool used to reinforce good behavior. It is usually followed by a treat. This routine is called Classic conditioning, where the stimulus (clicker) is followed by reward (food) — think Pavlov and his dogs. At some point in time the clicker and treats are eliminated, but the dog has now been conditioned to respond to the stimulus (a command). Clicker training is an effective tool, but takes some getting used to. Positive Reinforcement Good Dogma relies on the use of a variety of positive reinforcement training techniques to promote the continuation of desired behaviors. When your dog associates good rewards with a behavior, they are more likely to repeat those behaviors. AKC CGC Evaluations Good Dogma is certified by the AKC to evaluate dogs for Canine Good Citizenship (CGC) certification. In addition to the immediate benefits of having a well-mannered dog, CGC certification is a first step to having your dog become a therapy or service dog. This means your dog can visit hospitals and convalescent or retirement homes. There are 10 exercises the dog must pass to gain certification. For more information on the CGC visit the AKC website at AKC.org. Good Dogma is available for CGC consultation, review, and testing throughout the year. Discounts! Shelter/Rescue discount*: if you acquired your dog from a shelter or rescue in the last 6 months you receive $10 off on classes or private instruction. Senior discount**: (human) clients over the age of 55 will receive a $10 discount on classes or private instruction. *Proof required **No proof required Gift Certificates Good Dogma offers gift certificates, good toward any of the services we provide. Referral Rewards Refer a client that books a class or private lesson and choose one of the following rewards: $15 cash, or $25 donated to your favorite animal charity. |