Perfect for dogs of any age who need to start — or restart — with foundational training skills. Elementary School helps you and your dog build the skills that make everyday life together easier. Whether you have a puppy just getting started, a newly adopted dog who needs a fresh start, or an adult dog who "knows it at home" but struggles to use those skills in the real world, this class is a great place to begin. We focus on building communication, confidence, and practical skills in a positive, supportive environment — while helping you learn how to continue strengthening those skills outside of class. What This Class Covers: Attention & Focus: Building engagement with you, even when distractions are present Recall: Building reliable come-when-called skills Loose-Leash Walking: Teaching your dog how to walk with you without pulling Stay: Introducing the foundations of staying in place until released Leave It: Building impulse control around things your dog wants Place: Teaching your dog to settle on a designated spot Sit & Down: Building reliable foundational behaviors Cooperative Care: Target work and body handling to help make everyday care easier Real-Life Skills: Learning how to take the behaviors your dog knows at home and use them when life is happening around you Of course, Puppy Behaviors Are Welcome, Too! Puppies come with their own set of challenges! We'll also address age-appropriate behaviors like biting and nipping, house training, appropriate socialization, and other common puppy behaviors. AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy: Our Elementary School graduation assessment incorporates the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy test, with a few additional skills. Successful graduates can earn their AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy award and certification. We use positive reinforcement (R+) and Fear Free methods. Our training is science-based, humane, and designed to help dogs and their people build skills they can use in real life. Small Class Sizes: Classes are intentionally kept small so there’s plenty of room to learn, practice, and receive guidance along the way.