Puppy Class

There is a big world for a puppy to explore. They have a unique "socialization period", usually between 5-16 weeks of age. This is when many important social behaviors begin to develop. The puppies are like a sponge and absorb a lot of signals about proper play and pack behavior. As the puppy grows, the human family has a huge impact on what the puppy learns and how it acts.

At puppy class we give you the tools and knowledge to raise a well-mannered puppy through positive methods. The class is held at Charlotte Street Animal Hospital once a week for six weeks by Dr. Peden and usually consists of 6-8 puppies of all sizes. One section of classes costs $50.00, to be paid up front. We meet for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours for instruction and play. The puppies even have "homework" in which the owners work on new commands each week. We teach commands like:
"Watch me" (eye contact), "Easy" (taking treats, toys nicely), "sit," "Down," "Stand," "Quiet Down," "Leave it," "Come," "Stay," and "Off."

We also discuss basic puppy topics such as house training, meeting, greeting other people and puppies, loose-leash walking, recall, create training, bite inhibition and canine behavior to name a few. We also discuss vaccinations, parasite control, handling techniques (i.e. nail trimming, teeth brushing), first aid and the "adolescent" dog. Lastly, the puppies engage in off leash play. Play is an integral part of socialization. Dogs and puppies learn so much from their own kind. The last Class is of course Graduation with diplomas (but without the cap and gown).

Statistically, a dog is more likely to be euthanized because of behavior problem from inadequate socialization than by an infectious disease outbreak (i.e. distemper or parvovirus). This is why the puppies should attend class during the sensitive socialization period.

Owners also obtain an education. There are new ways of training through positive reinforcement techniques. We also teach how to manage puppy behaviors and teach owners what normal puppy behavior is. Many owners do not realize that mouthing, barking, growling, mounting, yipping and biting can be part of normal play. Some owners will stop play or chastise the dog for this behavior. This prevents the dog from learning how to be a dog from other dogs. Potential social anxieties could develop because of this inadvertent mentality.

THE MAIN GOALS OF PUPPY CLASS

1. It is easier to teach a puppy what you want him to do rather than what you don't want him to do. Teaching correct behaviors will be reinforced. (Nobody wants to hear "no", "wrong", and "that's not right" all the time). Example: A puppy (or dog) should learn to sit and stay when the door is opened rather than yelling "no" when he starts to run through the door.
2. Training should be fun for puppy and owner. It does, however, require time and a lot of patience.
3. Socialization and training is an active and ongoing process throughout your dog's life. Puppies should have positive experiences. Forcing a shy, timid puppy in situations in which they are afraid could create negative and lasting impressions later in life.
4. We hope that the puppies have a good association with the hospital and actually enjoy trips to the veterinary office.

REQUIREMENTS