"Make It Manners" class
Make It Manners classes are for any dogs aged 8 months and above. For some owners this class may be their first attendance at any dog training classes, for other they may have attended classes when their dog was younger and are struggling in specific areas. Make it Manners classes recap all of the basic commands addressed in the puppy classes and emphasizes how these commands can be used on a daily basis to encourage more mannerly behaviour from your dog. For adolescent and adult dogs that are poorly socialised attending a class is an extremely valuable exercise, but due to natural motivations and previously learned behavioural responses gaining their full attention can be difficult at times and frustrating for owners therefore all owners need to make a commitment to attend all classes and to practice exercises vigorously at home. Owners must be aware that this is not a Problem Behaviour Consultation class and severe behavioural issues can not be dealt with in this situation, yet at the same time teaching basic obedience and improving your dogs relationship with you is the initial critical step for dealing with problems.
What to expect from Make It Manners classes…
Make it Manners classes can vary quite dramatically depending on the previous work an owner has done with their dog. In general the basic commands taught include sit, down, stay, come, leave, wait etc, but first and critically we work on the dog being attentive to the owner and motivated towards them. Behaviours taught are then tested in games and simulations of real life situations as well as on occasions taken outside the training area and used with novel distractions such as livestock. Setting goals for yourself and dog is important, but at the same owners must be prepared to work at their (them and their dogs) own level and rushing can in many cases set a dog up for failure. We all like to win, and allowing your dog the chance to get things right gives them the chance to win the rewards you offer also.
What to do before attending Make It Manners classes…
Building a relationship between you and your dog is so important if you expect your dog to respond to you and abide by the rules you set. This is done by spending time with your dog, exercising them physically and mentally and providing (and associating for them) all the things they need, like and want in life. For most dogs this is easily achieved in feeding them, allowing them toys to promote natural doggy behaviours and giving plenty of affection. Remember these things must come from you for you to be the provider of all that they strive after in life! Don’t just throw down a bowl full of food and let them eat of their own free will, when it suits them- hand feed and provide challenging food times through a prepared stuffed chew toy. Don’t just leave toys in the bed for them to occupy themselves, spend time playing games; fetch, catch, hide and seek, tug of war etc. And certainly don’t ignore your dog when they are doing what you see is good-communicate with them, use your hands and your voice in continual feedback and the giving of affection.
How to book in my dog for Make It Manners classes?…
Just contact Alison if your dog is over 8 months and you want to attend Make It Manners classes. Make It Manners classes run for 6 weeks and cost a total of €85 for the six weeks. Owners need to commit to attending all sessions which are usually on a Tuesday evening. Make It Manners classes are held at Happier Hounds Dog Training, located approximately 3 miles from Abbeyleix, Co. Laois on the Carlow Road.
What else can I do with my dog?…
If you feel that your dog has good basic training, is motivated and attentive to you or you have graduated already from the Make It Manners classes you can continue your dogs’ training and mental stimulation whilst having plenty of fun together by attending the More Fun Matters classes, Clicker Training or Introductory Agility. A discount is available for owners that progress through the classes held at Happier Hounds Dog Training
Not sure if this is the class for you?…
Dogs owned by people and families since they were puppies, as well as dogs lovingly adopted as adults from rescue centres are both equally welcome at Make It Manners classes. On some occasions the owner or instructor of the classes may not feel these classes are suitable for certain dogs. This happens at times when a dog is very nervous of other dogs but displays it as aggression. In this instance owners will be giving individual assistance for the safety of all owners and dogs in the class and also so not to stress the dog displaying this behaviour and escalate the problem. Owners of rescue dogs may be interested in the Canine Rescue, Rehabilitation and Re-homing weekend workshop.