Puppy Class

Learn positive techniques and activities to motivate your puppy and build his or her confidence... and yours! Our approach is simply "positive". During the 7-week session, we cover everything from potty training to basic obedience skills.


This training is designed for pups who are 8-16 weeks old at the start of the session. If your pup is older, then he/she is ready for regular obedience.


2025 Puppy class sessions will be on Monday evenings at the indoor club

Next puppy classes start late summer/early fall 2025 - check back for details!


Registration form will be added to this page when dates are finalized.



Why Start Training Early?

The critical socialization period for puppies ends around 16 weeks. Early training helps:

  • Prevent behavior problems before they start
  • Build confidence during this crucial developmental period
  • Create positive associations with new experiences
  • Develop a well-adjusted, social adult dog
  • Establish good habits from the beginning


Many graduates continue to our Basic Obedience program to build on the foundational skills learned in Puppy Class.


See our Calendar for upcoming classes.


What You'll Learn

  • Potty & crate training
  • Nutrition guidance
  • Socialization through puppy play
  • Training fundamentals:
  • Motivation and targeting
  • Loose leash walking
  • Focus and attention
  • Coming when called
  • Meeting & greeting
  • "Leave it" command
  • Touch targeting
  • Place training ("On your rug")
  • New experiences (introduction to agility & medical equipment)
  • Grooming basics
  • Pet regulations and laws


Class Details

  • Time: Mondays, 6:30-7:30 PM
  • Location: Indoor Training Facility
  • Cost: $200 for 7-week session
  • Class Size: Limited to 10 puppies
  • Age Requirement: Puppies must be 8-16 weeks old at start of class
  • Payment: Cash or check/money order (payable to MDTC)
  • Payment in full required at orientation
  • Payments are non-refundable


Note: Classes fill quickly and are first-come, first-served

What to Bring to Class

Weekly Supplies

  • Small, soft training treats
  • Treat pouch or pocket for treats
  • 6 foot leash (no retractable leashes)
  • Flat collar
  • Poop bags
  • Water and bowl
  • Towel or mat for your puppy
  • Training log (provided at orientation)


For Puppy Play Sessions

  • Gloves recommended (leather or gardening gloves work best)
  • Extra towel for cleanup

Weekly Class Overview

Week 1: Orientation (Handlers Only)

The first class is a Mandatory Attendance Required class for the handlers that have been confirmed a spot. Due to the large amount of information that is covered, we require that the puppies stay at home until class 2. If you are confirmed a spot and do not show up for orientation, you forfeit your spot.


Weeks 2-7: Skills Development

  • Each class includes:
  • Skill learning and practice
  • Supervised puppy play
  • Problem-solving discussion
  • Take-home exercises
  • Progress evaluation

Classes build progressively - each week adds new skills while reinforcing previous learning

Important Policies

Attendance Policy

Two handlers per puppy are allowed. No switching of handlers can be allowed and no additional people will be allowed in the building to observe. There are no make- up classes.


Illness Policy

Handlers and Instructors should not come to class if they are feeling ill or fear that they may have come in contact with someone ill. If you consider yourself to be immune compromised, you must make a decision for your own safety based on the parameters set for this class.

 

Class Cancellation

It is rare that we have to cancel a class, but it could happen – especially due to cold weather. If we must cancel class, notification will be made as soon as the decision is made. We will work the material for that class into the remaining classes.

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