Manners & More Level 2

Class Description

Join our next level dog training class designed to improve your dog's obedience and responsiveness by incorporating distance, duration and distraction. We also focus on your verbal and non-verbal communication skills as a handler. In the final class we play Jeopardy! which is a fun way to recap the entire class. This class is fun and challenging!!

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.

Instructors: Leah Pacitto
Cost: $245.00 for six weeks (1 hr sessions)

Class Structure

We advance the basic skills (sit, down, stay, recall, leave it, heel) and learn new skills such as backing up, stopping, and send outs which will increase:

Reliability: By systematically increasing distance, introducing distractions, and extending durations, your dog’s basic skills become more reliable in a variety of real-life scenarios.
Focus and Engagement: Learning to obey commands despite distractions enhances your dog’s ability to focus on you and the task at hand.
Confidence: Mastering basic skills under varying conditions builds your dog’s confidence, making them more responsive and obedient companions.

Topics Covered

Distance:

Purpose: Distance exercises help dogs understand that commands must be followed regardless of how far away their handler is.
Application: We start with short distances and gradually increase them as your dog becomes proficient. For example, starting with a sit-stay at a distance of a few feet and progressing to several yards or even across a room.

Distraction:

Purpose: Introducing distractions teaches dogs to focus on commands despite external stimuli, which is crucial for real-world obedience.
Application: We systematically introduce distractions such as toys, noises, or other dogs during training sessions. This helps dogs learn to maintain their focus and obey commands even in stimulating environments.

Duration:

Purpose: Training duration helps dogs learn that commands must be maintained until released, which builds patience and reliability.
Application: Initially, we ask for short durations (e.g., a few seconds for a sit or down command) and gradually increase the time. For example, starting with a sit-stay for 10 seconds and progressing to several minutes.

Class Schedule

Saturdays
@ 3:15 p.m. - November 9 - January 4 (off 11/30, 12/21, 12/28)

Wednesdays
@ 7:30 pm - December 11 - January 29 (off 12/25, 1/1/25)

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?

Manners & More Level 1 or equivalent.
Able to perform foundational skills at least 50% of the time.
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.