Pembroke & Cardigan Welsh Corgi - View Single Post

Peanut · 10-15-2007, 01:28 PM

puppy class #1

Hi everyone

I was a little nervous going to puppy preschool this last Saturday, mainly because I didn’t know what to expect. The class consisted of 4 med/large breed puppies (including Peanut) and 5 toy breeds. Right when we got there, I immediately noticed a puppy that might be trouble for Peanut, she was some sort of fighting breed named Jessica. (and my maternal instincts were right!) Jessica barked non-stop during class which caused Peanut and some other puppies to randomly bark as well. Already not off to a good start.

The instructor told us the break down of the puppy class: first 15 min was off leash socialization, next 15 min discussion of topic and issues, and last 30min was training.

First, the instructor allowed the large breed dogs off their leash, next Peanut (the only med size dog) and finally the toy dogs. Since Jessica was more aggressive the trainer suggested she stay on the leash. Once the trainer gave the OK, Jessica was released off the leash and immediately trampled Peanut. (This was my puppy’s first time socializing with any dog). Peanut stood frozen and once the trainer took Jessica off, Peanut immediately took cover near us. For the reminder of the socialization time, Peanut was doing his own thing and didn’t seem interested.

Then the instructor talked about puppy feeding, way to avoid alpha puppies, and a few other things I can remember off the top of my head.

Finally the last portion of class, the trainer introduced us to use the “clicker” method. I read about it in books, but never used this method before. The clicker is used to mark the exact instance the puppy does something correct, and reward with the treat. The first exercise was getting the puppy use to the sound. Next to use the clicker to “sit”. Since Peanut can “sit” without a clicker, I’d rather not confuse him. I’ll train Peanut to recognize the clicker, and only use it for new commands.

When we brought Peanut home from puppy school he didn’t seem as active or enthused (even during feeding time!). Do you think its from that instance with Jessica? Or maybe im just over reacting. What are people’s experience with the clicker method?

Thanks again everyone!

ps: class is canceled next week because the trainer is showing her dog at a local show. I’ll give everyone an update after 10/27's class

10-15-2007, 01:28 PM	#9 (permalink)
Peanut Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: California Posts: 53	puppy class #1 Hi everyone I was a little nervous going to puppy preschool this last Saturday, mainly because I didn’t know what to expect. The class consisted of 4 med/large breed puppies (including Peanut) and 5 toy breeds. Right when we got there, I immediately noticed a puppy that might be trouble for Peanut, she was some sort of fighting breed named Jessica. (and my maternal instincts were right!) Jessica barked non-stop during class which caused Peanut and some other puppies to randomly bark as well. Already not off to a good start. The instructor told us the break down of the puppy class: first 15 min was off leash socialization, next 15 min discussion of topic and issues, and last 30min was training. First, the instructor allowed the large breed dogs off their leash, next Peanut (the only med size dog) and finally the toy dogs. Since Jessica was more aggressive the trainer suggested she stay on the leash. Once the trainer gave the OK, Jessica was released off the leash and immediately trampled Peanut. (This was my puppy’s first time socializing with any dog). Peanut stood frozen and once the trainer took Jessica off, Peanut immediately took cover near us. For the reminder of the socialization time, Peanut was doing his own thing and didn’t seem interested. Then the instructor talked about puppy feeding, way to avoid alpha puppies, and a few other things I can remember off the top of my head. Finally the last portion of class, the trainer introduced us to use the “clicker” method. I read about it in books, but never used this method before. The clicker is used to mark the exact instance the puppy does something correct, and reward with the treat. The first exercise was getting the puppy use to the sound. Next to use the clicker to “sit”. Since Peanut can “sit” without a clicker, I’d rather not confuse him. I’ll train Peanut to recognize the clicker, and only use it for new commands. When we brought Peanut home from puppy school he didn’t seem as active or enthused (even during feeding time!). Do you think its from that instance with Jessica? Or maybe im just over reacting. What are people’s experience with the clicker method? Thanks again everyone! ps: class is canceled next week because the trainer is showing her dog at a local show. I’ll give everyone an update after 10/27's class __________________ -sarah