Classes at K-10 Dog Training, no matter the age of your dog, focus on building a solid positive relationship between you and your pet.  The classes use methods backed by science and focus on life skills that most dog owners desire of their canine companions.  There is also one-on-one instruction for owners dealing with dogs with problem behaviors.  Whether you are building new desired behaviors or you need help modifying unwanted ones, there is something for you at K-10.

Private Lesson  Many classes at K-10 use a private lesson format.  Private lesson are purchased in packages of 5 lessons.  Private lessons allow one-on-one attention so that new behaviors can be taught, and problem behaviors can be resolved based on the individual needs of the dog owner and the dog.  These lessons allow flexibility so you and your dog can progress to the level of training you desire at your own pace.

Although most lessons are scheduled once per week, private lessons offer flexibility.  Training can be scheduled around your child’s school activities, scheduled appointments, shifting work schedule, etc.  Classes are scheduled based on a time when both you and your trainer are available.  It should be noted, however, that consistency is essential for your dog’s learning experience.  Too much time between lessons can be detrimental to the learning progression unless the owner is consistently reinforcing those skills during absences.

Small Group Classes  K-10 Dog Training also offers small group classes.  For most group classes, minimum class size is 2 and maximum class size is 5 unless otherwise noted.  Group classes teach your dog to focus on you while there are the distractions of other owners and dogs. If a group class format is available for a class, it will be indicated in the class description. It should be noted that a group class format is not a good fit for dogs with excessive reactivity or aggressive tendencies until those issues are resolved.

Current Classes at K-10 Dog Training

Let’s meet!

New students to K-10 Dog Training must take the “Let’s Meet” class prior to signing up for training.    This is a one-time orientation class intended for just dog owners.  This class gives you the tools to start building that solid positive relationship with your dog.  It is free to anyone who continues with training at K-10.  If no subsequent classes are taken, there is a charge for the orientation class.

Puppy Socialization

This is an opportunity for puppies up to 16 weeks of age which corresponds to the socialization period of a puppy’s life.  Experiences during this critical period can permanently shape their future personality and how they will react to their environment as an adult dog. Gently exposing them to a variety of people, places, and situations can make a huge, permanent difference in their temperament.

Socialization class is held on Tuesday evenings at 6:00pm.  Puppies should have at least their second round of vaccinations before attending this class.  Price is $25 plus tax.  Signup is necessary by calling 315-715-2900 as maximum / class is limited to 5 puppies.

Let’s Get Started – The Basics

Both Private Lesson and Group Class Format

There’s a lot packed into this introductory class.

For the handler:

• You will learn the foundation skills of positive reinforcement marker training.
• You’ll learn and practice maintaining a high rate of reinforcement which increases the reliability of learned behaviors.
• You will learn the importance of raising the criteria for reinforcement to shape well-honed behaviors all while building a solid relationship with your pet.

For the dog:

• All the basics are available such sit, down, stay, recall, and loose leash walking.
• The name game will teach the dog to quickly respond to his name and orient back to the handler.
• Handlers will be taught how to teach a default behavior and a release cue.
• Games that reinforce the dogs focus on the handler are part of this training as a strong focus on the handler and ability to ignore distractions is a foundation for later off-leash work.
• Leave-it will be taught so the dog will know what is available to him and what is not.
• Dogs will learn to orient, go to and stay of the mat until released.

Group Lesson Format is for dogs up to the age of 5 months.  Minimum class size is 2 and maximum class size if 5.  Class is held on Monday evenings at 7:00 pm.

Take it to the Next Level and Beyond

Prerequisite class – The Basics

Private Lesson Format

This is a 5-week package class where you add more distance, distractions, and durations to already known cues.  Your dog can work on longer-distance recalls and stays with increasing distractions.  There are no limits to this class.  Add new behaviors of your choice including fun tricks – it’s up to you.  Continue to build the relationship with your pup!

Really Reliable Recall

Group Class Format

Summer Workshop – Group Workshops where your dog learns a special recall cue which will  help to ensure your dog will respond in those emergency situations.  Workshops will likely be scheduled on a Sunday afternoon.  Watch for dates on the K-10 Facebook page.

The 5 student maximum does not apply to this workshop.

American Kennel Club S.T.A.R Puppy Class

Group Class Format

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), “The AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy is an exciting new program designed to get dog owners and their puppies off to a good start. The AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program is an incentive program for loving dog owners who have taken the time to take their puppies through a basic training class.”

This is a six-week class designed by the A.K.C.  Successful completion can be registered with the American Kennel Club.

AKC S.T.A.R Puppy Class is currently held on Saturday mornings at 9:00am.   Minimum class size is 2 and maximum class size is 5.  

For more information, check out the AKC website at https://www.akc.org/products-services/training-programs/canine-good-citizen/akc-star-puppy/

Canine Good Citizen Training and Testing

Private Lesson Format

Canine Good Citizen is a 10-skill test that teaches good manners to dogs and responsible dog ownership to their owners.  Successful completion can be registered with the American Kennel Club. This is a five-week prep class which prepares you to take the CGC Canine Good Citizen test.  The 10-skill test is conducted at the last class.

Canine Good Citizen Testing

This is for students that are ready to take the AKC CGC Test without initial instruction.  Testing will be scheduled as needed.  Find out more information about the AKC Canine Good Citizen test at http://www.akc.org/dog-owners/training/canine-good-citizen/.

Canine Problem Solving

Private Lesson Format

Some dogs have behaviors that are simply annoying while others exhibit behaviors that have the potential to be dangerous.  Using a combination of counter-conditioning and desensitization along with positive reinforcement, time and patience, dogs can overcome fears and anxieties that lead to aggressive displays.  They can also learn alternative acceptable behaviors to replace problem ones.  Don’t suffer through it alone – contact us for one-on-one help.