Small Dog Obedience Training

Help your small dog go big in regards to their education

Small Dog Manners

Please read all details below prior to registering.

Start Date Skip Dates End Date Day Start Time End Time Location Price
Oct 13, 2024 NoneNov 3, 2024 Sunday 1:45pm 2:45pm Muddy Paws 821 9th Ave btwn 54th & 55th $350

Information about our classes for small dog

We created the concept of group training classes geared specifically for small dogs in 2001. Our Small Dog Basic Obedience classes are the perfect environment for dogs under 20lbs and over 5 months old to learn in a group class setting with dogs of a similar size. City life for small dogs and their families can be particularly stressful due to concerns for safety, and peace of mind regarding behavior in the home and out on city streets.

This course focuses on basic manners skills such as sit, down, stand, stay, come when called, and impulse control and will help you learn how to use a modern, reward based approach to help your small dog happily engage in the training game, to build their confidence in themselves in different environments, and to prove to people that small dogs can be mannerly, social, and a blast to have training fun with. This course is not appropriate for dogs with reactivity (barking, lunging, growling, etc.) issues or aggression issues to either dogs or people. Two people may attend per pup.

Curriculum

  • Attention
  • Sit, Down and Stand
  • Come When Called
  • Hand Targeting
  • Impulse Control
  • Leash Manners
  • Preventing Sidewalk Vacuuming
  • Mannerly and Confident Greetings
  • Housetraining
  • Curbing Excessive Barking
  • Improving Responsiveness Around Distractions

Details

For dogs of any breed or mix that are under 20lbs. This class is appropriate for beginners as well as dogs that have had some previous training. Dogs should have no aggression history and no reactivity issues. If you aren’t sure what this means, please contact us.

The in-person course meets for one hour per class for four consecutive weeks (unless otherwise noted on the schedule) and is $350 for the course.

Two people may attend per pup. If a class cannot be held in-person due to COVID or weather it will be held virtually.

The class fee is non-refundable, non-transferable and there are no make-up classes. Prior to registering please note the nature of offering limited space classes, the above stated policies, and that there are no exceptions.

Proof of Vaccine Requirements: For dogs 16 weeks and older a record of their vaccinations must be signed by your veterinarian and include vaccine for: rabies, parvovirus, parainfluenza, adenovirus, bordatella, and distemper. If your veterinarian chooses not to give your pup one or more of these vaccines at the time of class, we must have a signed letter from them stating that it is contraindicated. Entry to classes and play groups is not permitted without Health Department required proof of vaccinations. You must bring a hard/printed copy with you to class to give to the instructor to keep at the location.

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Methodology

What type of training for small dogs do you use?

At our facility, we pride ourselves on a dog- and people-centric approach. Our training strategies are designed to motivate your pet to eagerly participate in the learning process, which includes managing their schedule to avoid problematic behaviors and ensuring they thrive as obedient and polite family members. We strongly believe that the most effective method to achieve these goals is through positive, reward-based training.

What types of tools do you use?

Our focus is on leveraging the rewards that each dog prefers to ensure they respond well to our commands. These rewards include affection, praise, toys, treats, and opportunities to explore their environment. Our toolset includes essential items like buckle collars, front-clip harnesses, leashes, and treat pouches, as well as specific training aids like markers and targeting objects. We categorically reject the use of electric shock collars, ensuring a humane approach to training.

Classes

What shots does my dog need to attend class?

To participate in our classes, puppies must have their vaccinations up-to-date for their age group. Early socialization is key to a dog’s overall health and social development; hence, we advise not to delay joining our classes. We recommend consulting with your veterinarian and reviewing authoritative sources such as Dr. R.K. Anderson’s letter on the importance of early puppy socialization and vaccination.

Can more than one person in my family attend the group small dog training class?

Yes, we welcome two family members per dog in our training sessions to facilitate a supportive environment. Young children can also join but must be under continuous adult supervision and behave calmly to maintain a smooth and effective class experience for everyone.

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