Manners & More Level 1

Class Description

In this six-week class, our experienced trainers will guide you and your dog through a series of exercises designed to build focus and attention, impulse control, and obedience through positive reinforcement techniques. Whether your dog is a new member to your family, or this is your dog’s first training class experience, this class sets a good foundation for future training and introduces your dog to the class environment.

Instructors: Leah Pacitto, Christine Glosson
Cost: $245.00 for six weeks (1 hr sessions)
If you took Foundations 1, the cost for Manners & More Level 1 is $80.00

Class Structure

Our classes are designed to be fun and interactive for both you and your dog. You'll learn effective training methods and techniques that you can continue to use long after the class is over.

Topics Covered

Through instruction and engaging activities, you'll learn:

Pay Attention: amidst distractions, laying the groundwork for effective communication and obedience.
Sit and Down: adding distance, distractions and duration to strengthen polite behavior in various situations.
Leave It: learning the concept to resist the urge to investigate or pick up tempting or dangerous items, promoting safety and preventing unwanted behaviors.
Drop It: how to get your dog to willingly release objects on command, crucial for preventing resource guarding and possibly ingesting harmful items.
Jumping: combating this behavior by teaching alternative behaviors.
Stay: gradually increasing ability to stay by adding distance, duration and distractions providing you with peace of mind in various situations, whether at home or out in public.
Recall/Come: exercises to improve a dog's response to the recall command and understanding why dogs may not come when called.
Bolting Out Doors: essential for their safety and your peace of mind. It's all about teaching them impulse control and boundary awareness.
What to do if your dog runs away.
Place: go to a designated spot/mat and stay there until released, a valuable skill for managing behavior and relaxation.

Class Schedule

Wednesdays
@ 3:30pm - December 11 - January 29 (off 12/25, 1/1/25)

Thursdays
@ 4:00 pm - December 5 - January 23 (off 2/26, 1/2)
@ 5:15 pm - December 5 - January 23 (off 2/26, 1/2)

Sundays
@ 6:15 p.m. - November 10 - January 5 (off 12/1, 12/22, 12/29)
@10:00 am - November 17 - January 12 (off 12/1, 12/22, 12/29)
@11:15 am - November 17 - January 12 (off 12/1, 12/22, 12/29)

Saturdays
@ 2:00 pm - November 23 - January 18 (off 11/30, 12/21, 12/28)
@10:45 am - December 7 - January 25 (off 12/21, 12/28)

We are always adding more dates! Please add your name to the waitlist by clicking the registration button and you will be notified when the class is scheduled.

FAQ's

WHAT IF I MISS A CLASS?

There are no make up classes for any missed classes. If your dog is sick or cannot attend class, we recommend that you come without your dog. If you are sick or cannot attend, Zoom is offered with advanced notice, but cannot be guaranteed. Follow up emails are sent after each class for your review.

What are the requirements to register for this class?

You may simultaneously take Foundations 1 and 2.
Pre-registration.
Proof of vaccination for DISTEMPER/PARVO COMBO booster and RABIES. A detailed receipt from the vet is acceptable
All necessary paperwork required by Dog Gone Good Dog Training prior to your first class.

when can I sign up for THIS class?

Take a look at our schedule and see what class works best with your schedule. If you do not see one, please add your name to the wait list.

Where is this class being held?

All classes are held at the Montgomery County 4H Center, located at 1015 Bridge Road (Route 113), Collegeville, PA 19426. In the winter months, classes are held inside the studio. The entrance to the studio is on the side of the building adjacent to the pavilions. Look for the white numbers on the building D16. The studio is not wheelchair accessible.
From May 1 - November 1, classes are held inside the studio and outside in the pavilions on the property. Please check the location of your class.

WHO CAN COME TO TRAINING CLASS?

Everyone is welcome to attend classes and take turns working with the dog. We ask that you do not alternate handlers each week, and have at least one consistent person attending all classes.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I CLICK THE REGISTRATION BUTTON?

When you click the registration button, you will be redirected to our ProPet scheduling software where you can create or access your account, view the training schedules, and provide online payment.

NOTE: IF THE CLASS IS FILLED, IT WILL NOT APPEAR ON THE LISTING TO REGISTER. PLEASE CHOOSE ANOTHER DATE.

Pre-payment is required to guarantee your place in class. We accept credit cards, cash or check. A nominal transaction fee of 3% is added on all credit card transactions. Payments can be mailed to Dog Gone Good Dog Training, Montgomery County 4H Center, 1015 Bridge Rd., Ste. I, Collegeville, PA 19426.

what should i bring to class?

Harness, 6 foot leash, 15 foot non-retractable leash, treat pouch & treats, poop bags, a non-squeaky toy, interactive food toy or bone to keep your dog busy.
It is a good idea to bring a variety of treats/food items - bronze, silver and gold. The treats/food that you are using at home may not be high enough value to use in class.