PAWS Chicago’s Virtual Polite and Playful Puppy Class socializes and nurtures young students, helping them become happy, healthy, polite and housebroken. The class also encourages important socialization skills by providing suggestions for socializing your new puppy in a safe environment.
Classes are limited to six dogs each. The small class size ensures an environment conducive to learning.
The Basics
- Number of Classes: Orientation video plus 4 live 40-minute weekly classes. Class will meet on the same days/times each week. Orientation video will be sent to participants in advance of the first class.
- Length of Class: 40 minutes
- Class Structure: Training via Zoom
- Age: 10 weeks to 5 months
- Prerequisites: None
- Price: $150
Three Areas of Focus
Basic Obedience
Your puppy will be trained on basic obedience skills including:
- Name recognition
- Watch
- Come, sit and down
- Walking on a leash
Manners
You’re never too young for good manners. During the class, we will address:
- Mouthing
- Barking
- Jumping
- Housetraining
- Crate training
- Leave it
Socialization
Socialization is perhaps the most important consideration for puppies. Each class features:
- Supervised playgroup
- Proper introductions
- Introduction to surfaces and Agility equipment
Find out more about the importance of socialization.
Supplies
The following are required for participation
- Vaccination records: Copies of your dog’s age-appropriate distemper/parvo, rabies and Bordetella vaccinations must be brought to the first class.
- Leash: A five- or six-foot leash (no retractable or chain leashes).
- Collar/Harness: Martingale collar, buckle collar or training harness.
- Clicker: This small, box-style event marker can be purchased online or at any pet supply store.
- Treat carrier: A bag, pouch, fanny pack, apron with pocket or deep pocket that provides easy access to treats.
- Treats: Lots of small, easy-to-chew, high-value treats. Cut up pieces of cheese or hot dogs are good choices, as are soft treats made specifically for training. (Experiment in advance to discover what your puppy really loves.)
- Bed, mat or rug: Soft surface your puppy can learn to lie down on.
- Chew toy or stuffed Kong (optional): May be helpful to keep your puppy entertained during downtime.
- Water Bowl
Preparing for Class
- Please be on time.
- Wear comfortable clothing and nonskid shoes. Flip flops, sandals and heels are not recommended.
- The use of cell phones is not permitted during class.
- Do not feed your puppy before class. A hungry puppy is more motivated to learn.
- Give your puppy time to relieve himself before class.
