What is it?
Puppy Beginners (or KPT, for Kindergarten Puppy Training) is a training class designed for puppies (purebred or mixed) 3 to 6 months old. It is directed more towards the younger pups (3 to 4 mos.), but older puppies will also benefit from it.
What is its purpose?
There are two purposes: 1. To teach the puppy basic obedience commands which are necessary for him or her to be a good companion and family dog and provide a foundation for further obedience training. The course will not turn out a 6 month old "obedience robot". To teach the handler how to care for his or her dog and to be a responsible pet owner. The classes are directed towards the new, inexperienced dog owner, who may have many questions about dog care, behavior, and training.
What will you learn?
The classes cover a variety of topics including formal obedience lessons, household manners, and tips on health and welfare of the dog. Some specific subjects covered:
| Proper use of leash and voice Getting dog's attention Acceptance of handling Sit, sit-stay Down, down-stay Controlled walk | Wait Intro. to heeling Come Fetch Jumping Tricks | Socialization Changes in behavior as puppy grows up Manners in house and car Grooming (eyes, ears, teeth, nails) Routine vet care (shots, etc.) Spaying/neutering |
What are the requirements?
The puppy's immunizations (distemper/hepatitis/leptospirosis/parainfluenza (DHLP) and parvo) must be up to date at the time of the first class - check with your vet about the age at which the various shots are due.
How much time will it involve?
Classes meet for one hour on Wednesday evenings and run for 6 weeks; the7th week is a graduation exercise. There may also be one additional class for "bonding", usually scheduled on a Saturday or Sunday. You will be expected to spend ten to fifteen minutes, once or twice a day, working with your puppy.