Puppy Foundation Class

Our course aims to lay the foundations for a well-balanced, well-behaved dog and to help ensure that you have a happy and rewarding relationship with the newest member of the family.

Why should I train my puppy?

Because it’s so much better to have a dog that

• comes when called
  
• waits at doorways and at roadsides
  
• sits politely when guests arrive
  
• knows its name and listens to you
  
• tolerates vet examinations and grooming
  
• greets strangers calmly
  
• walks nicely on lead
  

Trained dogs

• are happier, healthier, and safer
  
• bond with you and are closer to you
  
• are welcome in dog-friendly public places
  
• are less likely to develop bad habits detrimental to their health, like chasing cars or biting people
  
• are less likely to get into trouble for digging, biting, barking, or jumping up
  
• are more confident and can safely be allowed a greater amount of freedom
  
• are a pleasure to be around for people and other dogs alike
  
• have a good relationship with you which makes living together more enjoyable
  

What will we learn?

During the 6 week course you and your puppy will cover the following

• Responsibility & care
  
• Cleanliness & identification
  
• Attentive response to name
  
• Puppy play
  
• Socialisation
  
• Handling & inspection
  
• Puppy recall
  
• Basic puppy positions
  
• Walking in a controlled manner
  
• Stay for approximately 10 seconds
  
• Leave command
  
• Food manners (take a treat without snatching)
  

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What do I need to bring with me?

Your puppy – wearing a plain buckle collar, with cloth or leather lead (no chain collars or leads, head collars, harnesses or flexi leads please).

Treats – small, tasty titbits.  Cheese, liver cake, small pieces of cooked meat are all great rewards.  Make sure they are cut up small to avoid overloading your puppy.  Soft treats are best – hard biscuits and some commercial treats can take too long for the puppy to chew and swallow.  We can share recipes for tasty home-made treats for your puppy.  It is a good idea to avoid feeding your puppy before class. The rewards will be all the more appreciated.

A favourite toy – our training is designed to be fun for your puppy and we encourage you and your dog to play.  Some puppies work harder for the reward of a game than for food.  Soft toys that can be bitten and tugged are best.  Please avoid squeaky toys and toys that roll as these can cause a distraction for other puppies.

Poo bags – all responsible dog-owners carry these with them at all times!  Don’t worry if your puppy has a little mistake – just make sure you clear up after.  We provide paper and disinfectant.

Clothing - obviously!  But please make sure you are wearing flat shoes and preferably trousers.  Skirts and loose fitting tops can flap in your puppy’s face and be off-putting.

Water bowl – puppies can get thirsty, especially if they are eating lots of treats.  We do not provide a communal bowl to reduce the risk of any cross-infection so please bring your own.

Want to know more?  Go to our Puppy Class FAQs page.