Class 6 – GRADUATION, TRICKS

This is an expanded version of week 6 (Graduation) of puppy class.  These are only highlights and the instructor should use the topic materials to expand upon each command or concept.
 

1. Introduction and Question and Answer Session – 5 min

As you know what we tried to achieve through these classes is to have malleable, socialized puppies.  Through the gentling techniques we have shown our puppies that we are all powerful treat-givers who can do anything to their bodies we wish. We have covered the subjects of housebreaking, biting, chewing, separation anxiety and barking.  We have also learned among other things the commands sit, stay, and down. Through our puppy parties we have attempted to increase the confidence of the shy dogs and decrease the confidence of the dog so everyone can meet to the point of friendly.   (Talk a few minutes about some personal successes)                                  

2. Demo your gentle, passive “Rag Dog” – 5 min

3. Intro “WAIT” command – 5 min
    
1. Use for: Food, home doors, cars, curbs

                     i.  Begin with SIT-STAY training, until the dog responds well in situations where there are few distractions such as indoors or in your backyard.

                    ii.  Next, find a situation where the dog might try to pull ahead, such as at the front door, so that you can begin to teach the WAIT command.

                   iii.  Training sessions should begin when there are no external stimuli outdoors (other dogs, people) that might increase your dog’s motivation to run out the door.

                   iv.  Use a leash or leash and head collar to ensure control.

                    v.  Begin with a SIT-STAY by the front door. While standing between your dog and the door, and with only a few inches of slack on the leash.

                    vi.  Give the WAIT command and open the door. If the dog remains in place for a few seconds, begin to walk out the door and allow your dog to follow.

                    vii.  Then repeat, with longer waits at each training session.

                    viii.  If however, when you open the door or begin to walk out, your dog runs ahead of you, you should pull up on the leash, have your dog sit, release, give the WAIT command and repeat until successful.

                      ix.  Once your dog will successfully wait for a few seconds and follow you out the door, gradually increase the waiting time, and then try with distractions (dogs or people on the front walk).

This training should also be tried as you walk across the street, or before your dog is allowed to greet new people or dogs it meets.

4. Review of all commands taught in class – 5 min
1. COME
2. SIT
3. DOWN
4. HEEL
5. OFF
6. STAY
7. WATCH

5. Troubleshoot questions on class topics – 5 min

6. Ongoing training opportunities – 5 min
    
1. IdealDog™ On-Line Learning Program
2. In-home training
3. Behavioral Consults
4. Canine Good Citizen
5. ETC.

7. Class Picture – 5 min

8. Purchase any desired product – 5 min
    
1. Gentle Leader
2. Kong
3. Brush
4. Teeth cleaning tools

9. Class evaluations and settle any $ balance -- 5 min

10. Graduation Puppy Party with distractions – 15 min
     
1. Possible distractions

• Mentor Dog

• Toys

• Crutches

• Umbrella

• Bouncing Ball

• Paper Bag

• Stools

• Trashcans

Homework: Work on everything presented for at least 5 minutes per day for the rest of the dog’s life.