Sign up for our next puppy class!
For our Richmond classes please call us on 03 544 5566, or email us at [email protected].
For Motueka classes please us on call 03 528 8459 or email us at [email protected]
We run a 4 week course for owners of puppies 8-16 weeks of age at our clinic on certain weeknights; between Motueka and Richmond the nights vary
These classes are really important to ensure your puppy is well socialised and knows how to behave with other dogs and people. We love problem solving, and will help you deal with behaviour issues and discuss heath considerations for your four-legged friend. Below is a summary of what the class includes.
Basic Training
We help you teach your puppy the basic commands – Sit, Stay, Down, and the all-important Recall. We use positive reinforcement training, so we reward good behaviour with food and praise to help the puppies understand what we are wanting them to do. It always amazes us how quickly these little guys pick up new commands. We also discuss what is available to help with lead training – what is best for your dog; a collar, halti, harness etc.
Health Issues
Diet It is so important to get this right. A puppy grows at a rapid rate, and needs the correct balance of nutrients to grow healthy and happy. We also discuss the important do’s and don’ts of feeding puppies, and what treats are best suited for them. As part of the puppy class, you will be given discounts on premium puppy food and a free gift on graduation.
Preventative medicine We discuss the importance of regular annual veterinary check ups and discuss the dog vaccinations available, suitable de-worming protocol and the importance of regular flea treatment. You will also receive a free flea treatment that lasts 6-8 weeks to keep your pet free of unwanted hitchhikers. We also discuss the prevention of heatstroke and sun burn in the summer months.
Problem Solving
Toilet training – This is often the first issue you may need help with, as a puppy toileting indoors can be very stressful. We discuss the pros and cons of various methods of toilet training, including crate training vs paper training. Mouthing and biting – This is very common, and all puppies mouth and bite to some degree. A puppy that mouths a child is not meaning any harm, it thinks it is playing, but this can be very scary, and their teeth are quite sharp. We need to teach our puppies that mouthing and biting is not acceptable.
Digging – A very common problem that can quickly wreck your garden, so you will want to get on top of it promptly. We will give personalised advice to help solve this.
Separation anxiety – Dogs are pack animals and to be alone can be a bit scary at first. It is important that our puppies learn that it is OK to be alone, and that you will always be coming back. The most common symptoms of separation anxiety are excessive barking, inappropriate toileting and destructive behaviour. If you learn to recognise the signs of separation anxiety, you can help your puppy cope before it becomes a major problem.
Boredom busters – Puppies like to be busy, and we will show you plenty of ways to keep them busy so they don’t try and find things to do that may involve chewing on furniture or your shoes! We have an extensive range of pet supplies that can help keep your puppy entertained when you are busy.
Pet Insurance – Puppies can get themselves into all sorts of bother, from breaking bones, to eating items they shouldn’t, or just becoming unwell. These mishaps can be expensive, and pet insurance is one way of ensuring you can provide for your pet should something unforeseen happen. Many plans also cover annual vaccination costs and desexing as your puppy grows up. We discuss the pros and cons of pet insurance, and give you information on the companies that provide this service. You will also receive 6 weeks free no obligation pet insurance to cover your pet while enrolled in puppy classes
Dog Behaviour – We will ensure you leave puppy classes with a basic understanding of dog behaviour, what is appropriate and inappropriate behaviour with other dogs and people. We will also learn a lot of this through socialisation in the class with other pups.