Class Descriptions for Midcoast Maine's Premier Dog Training Facility     

SIZE MATTERS!! WE LIMIT OUR CLASS ENROLLMENT NUMBERS BECAUSE WE CARE...
We are committed to your success! It is important to learn in an environment which provides ample one-on-one coaching, even in a group class. That is why we keep an appropriate student/teacher ratio. If we have an exceptionally high demand for a specific class, we will create a 2nd class to keep our numbers at a reasonable level. The classes run for 6 weeks and the cost is $180.

**ALL DOGS ATTENDING GROUP CLASSES MUST BE HAPPILY SOCIAL TO OTHER PEOPLE & DOGS**

Class Schedule

GOOD PUP! Puppy Class

Early socialization is critical to the development of puppies up to the age of 16 weeks. They are discovering the world and drawing conclusions based on their experiences, which will last a lifetime. GOOD PUP! Supports both puppy and owner during this extremely sensitive, and sometimes trying, time period and includes the foundations of come, walking on a loose leash, sit, down, and stay, while integrating games and other activities to build confidence in the young puppy and enthusiasm for future learning. This class is available to puppies between the ages of 8 weeks to 20 weeks. (We don't wait until our children are teenagers before sending them to school, so why delay your puppy's education?)

GREAT BEGINNINGS! Beginner Class

This class is the perfect follow-up to "GOOD PUP!" or as a "stand alone" for all dogs over the age of 20 weeks. "GREAT BEGINNINGS!" focuses on the behaviors of walking on a loose leash, sit, down, come, stay, as well as more complex behaviors. The ideal class for the family dog. First–time dog owner, or seasoned trainer, this class is a "must" for the opportunity to accustom your dog to responding to your signals with mild distractions.

FREUD FOR FIDO! Private Behavior Consultations.

Solutions for behavior issues. Our Counselors are trained and experienced in identifying and resolving behavioral problems. Under the careful guidance of our Counselors, you will learn problem solving techniques and protocols to help you and your dog achieve balance and harmony in your relationship.

MIND YOUR MANNERS!

A FOCUS class, emphasizing all the behaviors that contribute toward making your dog a truly enjoyable companion -- in the home, and out and about. Teach your dog polite greetings, waiting at doors, walking past other dogs, being attentive to you, and other daily skills that your dog should have so that you can enjoy your time together. Also tips and pointers on being a good dog neighbor. This class is for dogs and handlers who have completed "Good Pup!" "Great Beginnings!", or the equivalent. Find solutions to problems you may be experiencing. Improve your relationship. Regain some control. Like all our classes, this class is taught in a fun, motivational way.

I’M CERTIFIABLE! Canine Good Citizen Class

The Canine Good Citizen program is a two-part program that stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. The CGC class will help you to prepare for the Canine Good Citizen 10-step test. Dogs passing the test receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club. This is a wonderful opportunity to further improve your “team” skills with your dog and enjoy the fun challenge of preparing for a goal that will proclaim that your dog is, indeed, a “good citizen!"

TOTAL RECALL!

This class addresses the two most common challenges that people experience in helping their dogs to learn the skills that contribute toward creating enjoyable companions. What we most often hear from folks is “My dog won’t come when he’s called” and “My dog pulls on the leash”. The focus of “Total Recall!” is on laying the foundation for a Really Reliable Recall and Polite Leash Walking through a variety of techniques and exercises while gradually adding distractions to the training environment.

INTRODUCTION TO AGILITY Foundation

"Agility" – a dog sport in which a handler directs a dog through an obstacle course in a race for time and accuracy" – as defined by Wikipedia. Ask anyone who does agility with their dog and they will tell you it is SO MUCH MORE! This is a FUN, fast-paced course which helps to build handler focus and self–confidence in your dog. It includes foundation exercises to acquaint you and your dog with familiar agility obstacles such as jumps, tunnels, and planks.

GET OVER IT! AGILITY Levels I, II, III

Have fun mastering the obstacles that were introduced in "Introduction to Agility". Add speed and precision with the goal of working off-leash. Master the new obstacles; dogwalk, a-frame, weave poles, and teeter. Have FUN running with your dog!

FIND IT! Nosework Levels I, II, III

This class focuses on teaching you how to encourage and develop your dog's natural scenting abilities by using his/her natural desire to hunt and interest in food, toys, and activity. Your dog will use lots of mental and physical energy in this class! This sport is based on the foundation skills of K9 detection - taught with positive, fun, and motivational methods.

COMPETITION OBEDIENCE Novice, Open, Utility

These classes are designed for dog/handler teams preparing for competition in the obedience ring, to enhance the bond that you have forged with your dog through your previous training. "Attention" training is an integral part of this class. Watch your dog become more attentive to you as you learn to develop a working relationship with your dog. Discover the joy of heeling, and the fun of mastering the other obedience exercises at each level.

SHOW OFF ! Breed Handling for the Conformation Ring

This class is a great opportunity to get your dog out to a new location! We will have visiting "judges" every few weeks to go over the dogs. This class is perfect for the seasoned handler as well as those new to the sport. No experience necessary. Come find out what goes on in the show ring!

Sports Sampler

This class has it ALL - a potpourri of fun activities; Rally, Agility, Tricks, and Games! It also includes foundation behaviors with an emphasis on Loose Leash Walking and Coming When Called - so you and your dog can brush up on your skills and enjoy a time to play together as well!

Let's Rally!

You and your dog are a team. You do almost everything together – take walks, eat, veg out, even sleep together. Rally is all about teamwork. You and your dog navigate together through a course of signs where your dog performs different exercies. Courses includes various turns and commands such as sit, down, and stay. Unlimited communication from the handler to the dog is encouraged and not penalized. While touching or feeding your dog isn’t allowed in competition, you can use verbal/hand cues, clap your hands, and pat your legs to praise and encourage your dog.

Control Unleashed

This class uses skills from Leslie McDevitt's Control Unleashed program and is for any dog who has the basics down and would like to learn skills for the real world. These skills can help with recall, leash pulling, and other basics. No prerequisites required.

Class Schedule