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In the past
10 years the concept of puppy school (sometimes referred to as puppy
socialising) has gained more and more recognition. While this is super news for
puppies and puppy owners, it has also opened a door for many unqualified
trainers to jump on the bandwagon.
During the socialisation phase the potential for imprinting of bad experiences
is just as high as the potential for good experiences. A poorly run puppy school
can have disastrous consequences and can leave the puppy owner with a
problematic dog in the years to come.
The
puppy owner is thus strongly advised to select a puppy school carefully. In this
vein we have put this article together to let you know what you should expect
from puppy school...
Puppy school
is a place and time, where you and your pup are educated.
Your pup learns to be a well mannered, socially acceptable animal - a companion
that enhances your life.
Puppy school is not
a place where pups of any age indulge in wild unsupervised/unstructured play, or
are taught formal obedience training - that is only appropriate for a more
mature dog.
THE VENUE
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Secure area for pups to have free safe work and play
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A large enough area for pups to play, but small enough for pups to feel
secure
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Area should preferably be grassed, which creates a calming atmosphere)
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There should be shade/fresh water easily accessible
ATTENDANCE
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All the family should be welcome (as should spectators) as long as they are
well behaved.
WHAT OWNERS SHOULD BRING TO CLASS
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A flat soft collar and soft leash - choke chains should not be used on
puppies as a matter of routine
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Small "Fast Motivational Foods" highly palatable and easy to digest
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Bowl for water & plastic packets to "scoop the poop"
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Toys is required
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Current inoculation/vaccination certificate
THE SCHOOL/INSTRUCTOR SHOULD PROVIDE/OFFER
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Enrolment form which should state all relevant details of the pup i.e.
inoculations/vaccinations and make reference to the owners goals and
expectations for the pup's future.
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Easily accessible water
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Rubbish bin
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First aid kit
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Booklets/literature/hand outs, on all relevant problems, from grooming and
puppy care, to common behaviour problems experienced by puppy owners
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Referral to retail outlets for equipment, such as
leads/collars/headcollars/toys and other basic doggie necessities such as
grooming equipment etc
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Basis distraction/desensitisation equipment i.e.: umbrella's bicycles,
sacks, people in strange coats, i.e. things that pups should be exposed to
during their every day life.
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Various noises to expose pups to, either on tape or other simulation: i.e.
small firecrackers, tapes of gunshot/storms or other "different" noises.
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Some everyday type physical obstacles to manoeuvre around - i.e. steps,
gates, drums, tyres, poles, ramps etc.
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Exposure to other animals - i.e. livestock, cats, fowls, horses, etc.
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Access to a safe "puppy friendly older dog" (role model.)
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS OF INSTRUCTOR
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Knowledge of puppy development calendar and "critical stages" of canine
development.
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Knowledge of breeds, and their particular characteristics, development,
purpose and genetics.
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Knowledge of puppy health, care, hygiene and housing.
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Behavioural and training knowledge
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Good communication skills with people
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Excellent canine handling
skills
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Experience in various disciplines of the dog sports
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An open mind
LEARNING METHODS
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All learning should be fun and enjoyable for both pups and owners
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Only kind, gentle and humane methods should be used
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Positive reinforcement is the generally accepted way of modern training, of
both puppies and dogs.
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No heavy handed methods are acceptable
CRITERIA OF GROUP/CLASS
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History and record keeping is essential
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Requirements and purpose/aims of course
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Achievements and objectives and test
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Duration of course
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Weekly programme hand outs
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Maximum of 6 puppies per facilitator/instructor
Care should be taken that the correct choice of puppy school is made. This is
after all where your puppy's entire future character is to be moulded. You can
even ask for a couple of references from previous puppy owners. Should you as
the concerned puppy owner have any doubts or misgivings regarding a class trust
your instincts and leave.
We have a
listing of puppy schools on this website. Click
here to view them.
Should you experience any
problems or have any complaints regarding the puppy schools listed, please
contact the ABC Secretary.
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