We know that everyone doesn't know where to begin or what to expect, and we would like to remove as much stress as possible from your experience.  Everything has to start somewhere, so we will start with a question for you:

Should I attend Canine Good Citizenship preview classes  or in-home training?

Generally group classes are a good idea because it is a social environment for the dogs. The method of teaching is the same for the classes. There will be one-on-one interaction between the instructor and the dog. Your dog needs to learn to obey you as well as the the instructor,  the real point is to teach you how to train your dog. And in the group class your dog has the opportunity to see that other dogs are accepting the training from their masters. In-home training is great if you can't make the scheduled classes for some reason, your dog needs reinforcement in certain areas, or your dog does not behave well socially with other animals.

What can I expect from the Canine Good Citizenship preview classes?

Number one, we limit our classes to a maximum of ten dogs and and their owners.  That helps to make sure that each dog gets the proper amount of individual attention.  When you arrive at the class here is what you can expect:

1. Registration

Everyone has to register for the first class, and we need to get some information about you and your dog.  We will provide you with all the information you need, such as what is expected from you and how to get in touch with us if there is a problem.  At registration we also take the time to meet your dog and evaluate their personality and temperament.

2. Orientation

Once everyone is registered there will be a group orientation.  You are expected to have your dog on a leash. You shouldn't touch any of the other dogs without their owner's permission, and of course that goes for your dog as well. Bring a pooper-scooper or baggie; you'll need to clean up after your dog. If your dog is consistently mean or aggressive with the other dogs in the class, you will be asked to remove the animal from the program.

Since we train outdoors and it is Miami & Ft. Lauderdale, there is always the possibility of rain. Short storms are to be expected, but classes may be postponed if the weather is forecast to be bad for a longer period.  We will provide contact information to check on your class on such days.

3. Canine Good Citizenship Class

Each class will consist of training for a single command.  Your instructor will demonstrate how the command is properly used, and how to train the dog to obey it.  Each owner will practice the command as part of the group under the supervision of the instructor.  Then each owner will continue to practice the command individually, and the instructor will assist and evaluate each dogs performance individually.

4. Group Wrap-up

Coming back together as a group, all the dogs will perform the command together.  At this point the instructor has evaluated each dog and will assign individual homework to be practiced outside the class.  The performance of each dog will be checked at the next class.

Remember, a pooper-scooper or baggies are required for each class!

So if you are ready to join a group class then take a look at our schedule to find a class in Miami or Ft. Lauderdale.  If you feel individual in-home training would be better, more information is available here.  And if you still aren't sure, please call us or contact us online and we will be more than happy to answer any of your questions!