Obedience

All are welcome, no need to be a Club member or have a purebred dog.  

Foundation Class:
Starting September 20, 2023

This is a beginner class that is recommended for all for pets or for those wishing to continue on to more advanced classes. We use clickers, reward markers and tons of treats.  Harnesses, chain leashes and flexis are not to be used in these classes. Classes are six weeks: $100 for members, $125 for associate members and $150 for non-members.

Advanced Classes:
START DATE to be Announced
Instructor Sandra Esford.
6 dogs per class
These classes are not at the foundation or beginner level. I can adjust exercises for individual dogs and handler’s needs but to benefit from these classes some previous obedience training for both dog and handler is required. These classes will use many of the methods that we learned at the Connie Cleveland seminar this summer and through the Obedience Road Course on-line.
Your dog will need to be rewarded with toys and /or food. You may use a clicker or a specific verbal to indicate a behaviour is correct and will end with a reward. We will also learn use a verbal marker to mean carry-on with what you are doing.
We will be focusing heavily on proper use and timing of reward markers to mark and reward behaviours, that is connecting the reward with a behaviour and making the behaviour fun.
Heeling will concentrate on rhythm and smoothness for the team but especially for the handler. That means working on appropriate footwork for you and appropriate use of your leash to direct your dog.
To this end I will ask that we video tape weekly so please bring a phone or iPad for that purpose.
We will introduce jumps (as directed jumping) and incorporate practicing fronts in various ways.
Other exercises such as Positional Changes and Go Outs may be offered.
We will be working each week on “Stays” as in group exercises and for stand for exams.
Some weeks I will divide the room so one part is practicing individually while the other half is working with me.
Either a crate or raised bed for your dog to stay on, will be needed when it is not your dog’s turn.
You need to commit to practicing 10 minutes almost daily to see improvement.
I plan to offer two one hour time slots, 6 to 7 and 7 to 8pm. Hopefully we can divide the dogs and handlers in two groups depending on skill level.
Sandra

These classes are for all dogs and are focused on getting the dogs and handlers to competition levels, but trialing a dog is not required.

We use a treat, clicker or reward marker system, so be prepared to bring a lot of teats and clickers will be available to purchase.  A six foot leather or fabric leash, and a collar are to be used.  A harness is only to be used if there is a medical reason to do so.   

Classes are six weeks:
$100 for members
$125 for associate members
​$150 for non-members.


Location: Loyalist Veterinary Hospital Training Hall in Belleville @ 360 Bell Blvd.
Contact Adrienne Almey: adrienne.almey1950@gmail.com for more information.
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