Obedience Class
Real World
Proofing your dog's commands
Dog training isn't just about the commands your dog knows. Just like anything, it's not about your dog's ability to perform the command in practice, but can your dog do it when it counts. Would they heel if a squirrel runs off into a busy street? Would they listen to you with other dogs or people around? Could they focus on you in different situations? Distractions are everywhere, and you want to ensure you can command their attention in challenging situations.
Dog are really impacted by their environment. The slightest change in their surroundings can impact your dog's ability to perform and listen. You need to practice in many different locations and environments before you can be confident you dog truly knows a command.
A person who has probably practiced sit and down with their dog inside their house a thousand times is shocked when they come to our facility during a training class and their dog won't sit or lay down when asked. The owner will say "s/he knows this; s/he's just being stubborn". We then inform them that they haven't "proofed" the command; that is, they haven't practiced that command in many different environments and settings. Ultimately, your house or our facility isn't just where you want your dog to listen to you. You'll want to ensure they'll give you attention anywhere, not matter how distracting or how different; that's why we created Real World Class, a class where we travel to different locations and perform all the basic obedience commands. We'll show you strategies and tactics for keeping you're dog's focus and you'll discover your dog's weaknesses that needs some work and how to handle it with professional guidance from an instructor.
Funny story: Some folks went to a dock diving competition a few years back where the bottom of the pool was white (99% of the dock diving pools have a blue bottom). Guess what happened, more than half of the dogs competing wouldn't jump into that white-bottom pool! That's right. Dogs that have jumped hundreds, maybe thousands of times into different dock diving pools wouldn't jump into that white-bottom pool simply because of that one small change. The rest of the dogs that did jump have probably been exposed to other situations or simply have more experience jumping in different locations - indoors, outdoors, ponds, and lakes.
Real World Training Class
Ultimately, your house or our facility isn't just where you want your dog to listen to you. You'll want to ensure they'll give you attention anywhere, not matter how distracting or how different; that's why we created Real World Class, a class where we travel to different locations and perform all the basic obedience commands. We'll show you strategies and tactics for keeping you're dog's focus and you'll discover your dog's weaknesses that needs some work and how to handle it with professional guidance from an instructor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I've taken basic obedience with you (or at another facility).
Is this class the next step for me?
A: Yes, If you've taken basic obedience at our facility, then, we'd likely recommend this class as the next logical step. If you haven't taken an obedience class with us, this may be a good fit, but you may want to start with a private obedience lesson with us to ensure your dog doesn't need to brush-up on the basics first.
Q: why is the first class at your facility without the dog?
A: We like to have the first class at our facility, so we can go over the game plan and get everyone's goals for the class. We like you to leave your dogs at home during the first session so you can focus on what is being said. We encourage you to bring a pad and pen to take notes.
Q: Do I need to bring anything to the offsite classes when they start?
A: Please bring high value treats for your dog. We'll use this to build attention and reward them throughout the process.
Q: Where do the offsite classes typically meet?
A: It can vary, but some examples include Tractor Supply in Carver, Nelson Park in Plymouth, Lowes in Kingston, Mayflower Brewing Company in Plymouth, or Village Landing in Plymouth. all of these locations are dog friendly.
Q: If I want to start with a private lesson, how do I schedule that?
A: You can schedule a private obedience lesson; you can see the schedule, book, and pay online. If you can't find a day/time that works, please email us at info@thedogmallinc.com
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You can view the schedule, book, and pay online with the link above
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Look for the Real World Class ($175 6-week class) in this schedule
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If you don't see it offered in the coming months or have questions, Email info@thedogmallinc.com