Classes are normally offered three times a year; January, March, and September. Our classes are very popular; often there is a waiting list. We consider our dogs first and foremost as pets and companions and believe that all dogs deserve responsible owners. Classes are taught based on positive reinforcement and behaviour shaping techniques
We see every dog and handler team as individuals and training methods may be tailored for individual needs as required. We pride ourselves on our low student: teacher ratio. Your success is our success! For your dog's protection, we require proof of inoculations for all classes. Bordatella vaccinations are strongly recommended. Puppies 10-16 weeks old are required to have a minimum of their first set of shots in their permanent inoculation series. Understand that participation in classes is not without risk to you or your dog. Please consult with your veterinarian should you have any concerns. At all levels, our goal is to increase your dog’s level of self-control and help you to develop a good working relationship with your dog by using motivational techniques in a fun atmosphere. |
Level 1 Classes (8 weeks in length)
You will learn how to train your dog to sit, lie down, stand, stay, come when called & walk on a loose leash. It is essential that you understand the lessons before you leave class so you can practise the exercises at home during the week. Working with your dog at home is essential to successful completion of Level 1 and developing a good relationship with your dog. Equipment needed: buckle or quick snap type collar is, 6’ leash; food or other rewards, fanny or treat pack that hooks to your belt.
Level 2 Classes (8 weeks in length)
Designed for handlers who have successfully completed Level 1, preferably with RVO & FTC. Exercises are arranged to alternate between active and passive exercises. New exercises are heel off leash and the finish to the left. Distraction training is also introduced. Graduation requirements - heeling off leash without distractions, and heeling on leash, stays, and recall with distractions.
Distractions consist of:
Level 3 Classes (8 weeks in length)
Designed for handlers who have successfully completed Levels 1 & 2 and is designed to refine and strengthen the skills already learned. New exercises include finish to the right (dog walking behind the handler to a heel position); figure 8; and attention is added to off-leash and distraction work.
Other Classes
Whenever there is enough interest, other types of classes (e.g., Obedience Handling, Open Level, Utility and Rally-Obedience , Tracking, etc.) may be offered. Please contact us for availability.
For further information or to register for classes, please call RVO & FTC’s voicemail at (506) 444-8874 or e-mail Sue Wishart at suespals@gmail.com
You will learn how to train your dog to sit, lie down, stand, stay, come when called & walk on a loose leash. It is essential that you understand the lessons before you leave class so you can practise the exercises at home during the week. Working with your dog at home is essential to successful completion of Level 1 and developing a good relationship with your dog. Equipment needed: buckle or quick snap type collar is, 6’ leash; food or other rewards, fanny or treat pack that hooks to your belt.
Level 2 Classes (8 weeks in length)
Designed for handlers who have successfully completed Level 1, preferably with RVO & FTC. Exercises are arranged to alternate between active and passive exercises. New exercises are heel off leash and the finish to the left. Distraction training is also introduced. Graduation requirements - heeling off leash without distractions, and heeling on leash, stays, and recall with distractions.
Distractions consist of:
- 1st degree - a visual cue (either stationary or moving)
- 2nd degree - an auditory cue such as clapping or encouraging the dog to come to the distractor by calling him (the dog's name is not used)
- 3rd degree - offering the dog and object of attraction (food or his favourite toy) as an inducement to come to the distractor
Level 3 Classes (8 weeks in length)
Designed for handlers who have successfully completed Levels 1 & 2 and is designed to refine and strengthen the skills already learned. New exercises include finish to the right (dog walking behind the handler to a heel position); figure 8; and attention is added to off-leash and distraction work.
Other Classes
Whenever there is enough interest, other types of classes (e.g., Obedience Handling, Open Level, Utility and Rally-Obedience , Tracking, etc.) may be offered. Please contact us for availability.
For further information or to register for classes, please call RVO & FTC’s voicemail at (506) 444-8874 or e-mail Sue Wishart at suespals@gmail.com