Puppy Preschool
Are you ready to build a stronger bond with your dog and begin essential training skills? Join us for the Puppy Preschool K9 Principles Training course! This comprehensive 4-week program is designed to support you with the very early days of your new family member (your new puppy), while fostering a positive and rewarding relationship with your canine companion.
Eligibility:
1. Vaccinations
Just to make sure we are on the same page and there are no surprises, we follow the recommended vaccination protocol from the Ontario Veterinary College. All dogs entering a group class must be up to date with rabies, parvovirus, distemper, and Bordetella (kennel cough). Puppies not old enough to receive certain vaccines are exempted. This is for your dog's well-being and safety but also the safety and well-being of all the dogs entering the class including dogs that they live with. We will need to verify this before starting your class.
2. Age
All canine's must be between 12 and 18 weeks of age to join this program.
What to Expect:
1. Weekly Training Sessions:
Over the course of 4 weeks, you and your dog will engage in hands-on training sessions, led by our experienced trainers. Each session will focus on building foundational skills for getting your puppy settling into your new home.
2. Positive Reinforcement Techniques:
We believe in using positive reinforcement to guide your dog’s learning. You’ll be taught techniques that encourage good behavior through rewards, making the training experience enjoyable for both you and your dog.
3. Foundations Skills:
We're starting from the very beginning, covering everything from house training and crate training, to building confidence.
4. Interactive Learning Environment:
Each session is interactive and engaging, with opportunities to practice what you’ve learned alongside other dogs and their owners. This environment helps your dog get accustomed to working around distractions, improving their focus in different settings.
5. Strengthen Your Bond:
This course is about more than just commands—it’s about creating a deeper connection with your dog. The skills you learn together will build trust, improve communication, and make daily interactions smoother and more enjoyable.
Course Curriculum:
Confidence & Socialization
Designed to help puppies build confidence, develop essential social skills, and become well-adjusted members of their families.
Stimuli Exposure
Safely expose puppies to a wide range of stimuli to prevent fear-based responses later in life.
New Situations
Support owners on how to continue building their puppies' confidence in new situations, outside of the classes.
Human & Animal Bond
Establish foundational social skills with other puppies and humans.
Basic Handling
Introduce basic handling and grooming to prepare puppies for future care.
House Breaking & Crate Training
Teach your canine proper house manners and where to do their business. Plus, engage in crate training to further support behaviour.
Why Participate?
The Puppy Preschool K9 Principles Training course is perfect for dog owners looking to establish very early good behavior and set the foundation for future training with their new family member. This course will equip you with the tools to create a happier, well-behaved pet. Plus, by participating, you’re supporting the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA, helping us continue our mission to care for animals in need.
How to Register:
- Reserve Your Spot: Spaces are limited, so be sure to register early to secure your place in the course. Registration covers all 4 sessions.
- Prepare for Training: Bring your dog’s favorite treats, a leash, and a positive attitude! We provide all the resources and support needed to make this course successful for you and your pet.
Course Fee:
The cost for the full 4-week course is $200, which includes all training materials, one-on-one guidance from experienced trainers, and personalized advice for addressing specific challenges you may face with your dog.
Additional Information:
- Location: Classes will be held at our HBSPCA training facility, with free parking available on-site.
- What to Wear: Dress comfortably, as you'll be moving around and engaging with your dog throughout the session. Closed toed shoes required.
Sign Up Today!
Don’t miss this opportunity to take your dog’s training to the next level. Join us for the Puppy Preschool K9 Principles Training course and start your journey to a better-behaved dog. We look forward to seeing you and your furry friend there!
About Your HBSPCA:
The Hamilton/Burlington SPCA is always Pet First. Since 1887, we've advanced the humane treatment of animals through innovative and collaborative education, services, and partnerships. Our diverse programs support over one million animal interactions annually and provide vital resources to ensure the well-being of animals and their families in our community. We take care of animals because they take care of us. Join in at www.hbspca.com
FAQs
The K9 Principles website has plenty of information on the FAQ page to answer any additional questions you may have.
Paws for Cause 2024 Awards:
Event Information
Learn crate training, house breaking and more, in this interactive, intimate dog training class at HBSPCA. We'll cover everything you need to get started