Training Steps

Training begins the day you pick up your puppy. Positive reinforcement should always be the method used for all forms of dog training.

Potty training of course is one of the first challenges you will face. It is your job to protect your pup from making mistakes in this area. Watching them constantly, giving them ample opportunity to relieve themselves outside, and rewarding their efforts, will pay off quickly.

Socialization is critical whether you intend on using your dog for Service, Therapy, emotional support, or simply a family pet. Start early! Seven to sixteen weeks of age is the prime time for social and disability training.

Disability Training may begin immediately, or be put off until your pup has gone through several months of training. Many medical or psychological alert tasks can be taught before a dog is physically mature enough to perform more physically challenging jobs. When raised with the handler, you can take advantage of instinctive responses to your condition.

The next step is Obedience Training. Even if you plan on training your puppy yourself, we recommend a group class with an experienced trainer as early as possible.

Your pup needs to be comfortable in public, and be able to walk quietly beside you, heel, sit, lay down... Once you have the basics down, you can start Social Service Training.

Now we can get back to Disability Specific Training. Even if you started training for some of these behaviors early, it is time to start putting the pieces together.

Advanced Obedience Training will give you longer arms. Your dog will learn to be more precise in their movements, and to listen at a greater distance from you. It will help build their confidence and yours.