Level 1 Obedience:  These classes introduce basic manners to the dog that is over the age of 4 months.  Using positive reinforcement and management techniques the handler will learn to teach his/her dog the signals and verbal cues for sit, down, stand and watch.  Name attention will be taught and this skill used to develop a more reliable recall.  The skills needed for heeling are introduced.  Manners in the home will be addressed with such skills as 'settle down' and 'off'.  One of the evenings will include grooming issues, and another, tricks.

The Canine Good Neighbour requirements will be introduced and practiced.  If you are interested in certification, Pembroke Animal Hospital's instructor Donna Whitmore, is a certified tester.

Equipment: Buckle collar preferred or a halter in addition to a collar, 6' leash, treats and toys of the dog's preference.

Classes will be offered Monday and Thursday nights 7-8:00 and 8-9:00 depending on demand.  Each class accepts 6-7 dogs.  The duration is 8 weeks at a cost of $110.00.  Please bring proof of immunization including the kennel cough vaccine.  Registration is the week before the first class.  For more information,contact Brenda at 613-687-4527.

Level 2 Obedience:  These classes are for people interested in developing their dog handling skills and gaining greater precision in their work with their dog.  The dog and handler should be able to walk together in a controlled fashion, come when called in a controlled environment and stay when left at a short distance for about 30 seconds.  They should have completed level 1 or have the equivalent skills.

The exercises covered are those included in obedience and rally competitions.  These are heel on and off leash, figure 8 (also a heeling exercise), stand for exam, recall and stays (sit, down).  Jumping and retrieving may also be introduced.   The dog's attention to the handler is emphasized.  Luring may still be used at the introduction of a new move, but the aim is to get the cue for the exercise in place and come to mean "Opportunity for reinforcement." 

Dogs and handlers will progress at their own pace.  The object is for both partners to have fun and not feel pressured to meet goals within a fixed time.  Some may wish to participate in a novice test at the end of the course to determine their progress.

Equipment: Buckle collar preferred, 6' leash, treats and toys of the dog's preference. 

The classes are held on Wednesday nights from 7-8:00.  The course runs for 8 weeks and costs $100.00.  Class size is 3-6 dogs.  Please call Donna at (613) 582-7442 for more information.

 Level 3 Obedience: This class is for people with a serious interest in training dogs and in competing.  It is offered when there are 2-3 people that have dogs who are working close to competition level and wish to polish their skills in preparation for trials in obedience or rally.

Competition  requirements and rules will be addressed in detail.  Handler skills will be emphasized with video taping if desired.  Skills required for Open and Utility will make up part of the curriculum.  Skills for Advanced and Excellent rally would be introduced if this is of interest to the participants.

Developing longer duration in the dog's commitment to his work will be a focus.

For more information contact Donna Whitmore (613) 582-7442 or Jill Kolar (613) 589-2863