Are you looking to train your dog for service work, therapy work or just have an overall well behaved pet dog? Then these classes are for you. We offer classes from puppyhood and beyond. Of course with any training, the earlier you start, the easier it will be. However no dog is too old to benefit from these classes. Not all dogs have the genetics and temperament to become therapy dogs.or service dogs, however all dogs can benefit from clear communication, and consistency in training. Although there are no guarantees your dog will be at the service dog level after attending classes as there are numerous factors to consider (genetics, temperament, commitment to training) you will 100 percent notice a change in their behaviour for the better if you follow along with the program and continue to do your work at home. If you would like to unlock your dog's hidden potential, sign up today and let's get started.
*Please note: there is no certification for service dogs in Ontario. The goal of our classes are to improve your communication and build your relationship in order to get the best out of your dog/handler team*
How do these classes differ from our regular pet manners classes? ALL CLASSES ARE PRIVATE OR SEMI PRIVATE SESSIONS TO ALLOW GUIDANCE FOR YOUR SPECIFIC SITUATION. Skills MUST be mastered to move on to the next level. This is a very intensive program requiring a commitment from you in order to proceed through the levels.
Difference between therapy dog, pet dog, emotional support dog and service dog.
Pet dog- no official training required but is recommended to ensure a well behaved companion. Allowed in pet friendly locations only. Therapy Dog - a well trained dog that enjoys the company and attention of strangers. Allowed in pet friendly locations only. Can accompany guardians to nursing homes, hospitals, etc with permission to provide companionship to residents. Emotional Support Dog- a dog that provides emotional comfort to their guardians. Allowed in pet friendly locations only. Service dog - a well trained dog that is public Access trained, obedient and has been trained tasks to help mitigate their guardians disability. Allowed in non pet friendly locations as a medical aid to their guardians.
Puppy Class 4 weeks $180 Private/semi private sessions. Covers 3 separate topics. For puppies under 5 months of age. Puppy problem prevention. Puppies naturally go through an adjustment period where they are learning how to live in a human household. They exhibit natural puppy behaviours such as chewing, mouthing/biting, jumping up, barking, house training issues, crate training issues and more. Learn how to prevent resource guarding behaviour and reactivity. In this session we go over prevention and management tips on how to solve/prevent these things from turning into problem behaviours. This class will give you and your puppy a positive start to your dog/human relationship. Obedience Cues- Teach your pup the foundation behaviours such as sit, down, come when called, touch, drop it, leave it, go to place, paws up, targeting, impulse control and more Socialization-Education about importance of early socialization. What socialization actually is...exposure. What types of things to do in the home to socialize puppy. How to socialize your puppy with attention to different personalities. Safer socialization prior to full set of vaccinations. Exposure to the sights, sounds of everyday life. Puppies who aren't socialized early may develop fear-based behaviors, including fear of strangers, new environments, or other animals, which can lead to behaviour issues later in life. A well-socialized puppy is better equipped to learn new things throughout their life, including training commands, adapting to new environments, and forming positive relationships.
Level 1 - 5 weeks $200. Private/semi private sessions. 5 months of age and up . This class teaches the basic cues as well as combats basic behavioural issues such as jumping up, hyperactivity/over arousal. Greeting strangers, intro to equipment. Must pass skills test to move on to level 2. Some cues that will be taught are touch/targeting, sit, down, impulse control exercises, recalls, leash walking, place and general confidence building.
Level 2 - 5 weeks $200 Private/semi private sessions. This class builds on Level 1 cues with the addition of distance, duration and distraction. Continuation of behavioural training/Manners. Must pass skills test to move on to Level 3.
Level 3 - 5 weeks $200 Private/semi private sessions. Fine tuning individual difficulties, introduction to canine good neighbour and therapy dog requirements. Must pass skills test to move on to level 4 public Access.
Level 4 Public Access Step 1 -5 weeks $225 Private/semi private sessions. Taking previously learned skills to the outdoors and into more distracting environments. Pet friendly locations such as pet stores, hardware stores, public parks etc. This isn't just going for a walk with your dog in new locations. This is a continuation of training but in public areas ensuring success at each level. Must pass skills test to move on to Public Access Step 2.
Level 5 Public Access Step 2 - 5 weeks $225 Private/semi private sessions.Continuing the public access skills and fine tuning any problem areas. Putting the previously learned skills to the test. Working in outdoor and indoor environments. Must pass skills test to move on to Level 6.
Level 6 - task training $60/hr Private sessions for those that require assistance with their disability. Must pass previous 5 levels in order to begin task training.
If you are interested in starting classes or would like more information about therapy or service dog training, please click on the button below to email us. Please type service/therapy dog in the subject line.
