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How old does my puppy need to be to start attending classes? |
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Puppies go through various developmental stages as they grow and mature. One of the greatest factors that influences your puppy's development is socialization. Early and ongoing socialization, beginning as early as ten weeks old, will greatly contribute to your dog's temperament and trainability as an adult dog. |
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I've had a dog before that I trained myself. Why should I attend an obedience class with my new dog? |
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Training your dog should be a fun and exciting experience. In addition to giving you the opportunity to work one-on-one with your dog in a controlled environment, it also gives your dog exposure to different noises, people, surroundings, etc. Like people, dogs have varying personalities which affect how they learn and respond to stimuli. A qualified trainer can help you determine what is most effective for you and your dog, so the learning experience is positive and joyful for both of you, and not frustrating or tiring. |
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My dog has not been properly socialized. What can I do? |
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Training your dog should be a fun and exciting experience. In addition to giving you the opportunity to work one-on-one with your dog in a controlled environment, it also gives your dog exposure to different noises, people, surroundings, etc. Like people, dogs have varying personalities which affect how they learn and respond to stimuli. A qualified trainer can help you determine what is most effective for you and your dog, so the learning experience is positive and joyful for both of you, and not frustrating or tiring. |
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My dog has already done a basic obedience class but he seems bored. Is there anything else we can do together? |
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More and more we are recognizing both the abilities and needs of our canine companions. If a dog is not given a job to do, he will find himself something to do and become self-employed! There are a large variety of classes available, with new dog sports popping up on a regular basis. Everything from agility to freestyle to rally or flyball - there is something out there for you and your dog! Pet Planet offers agility training for all ages and levels of dogs, whether for competition or fun. Training of any kind provides our dogs with much-needed mental and physical stimulation. A tired dog is always a good dog! |
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My child wants to train the dog. Is this a good idea? |
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Dogs and children can truly be an incredible combination. There is an intense bonding that usually takes place quite quickly, and dog and child become inseparable. When a dog is learning a new behaviour, no matter how simple or complex it appears to us, they need consistency, practice, and often-times, help! In obedience classes, we generally recommend that children be 12 years of age or older. In agility classes, children that are considerably younger are able to work with the dog, most of the time. |
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Why should I put my dog in daycare? |
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Boredom can be dangerous. All dogs need socialization and exercise. Some guardians can't devote enough time to their dogs every day; some dogs experience separation anxiety when left during the day, or are destructive when left alone. That's where daycare can help. Professional, caring staff provide the companionship your dog is craving and positive reinforcement to your dogs socialization skills and manners. Best of all he/she is just as tired as you are at the end of the day! |
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What will happen the first time I bring my dog to daycare? |
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Prior to being placed in with the general population, your dog will be assessed by one of our Caregivers and introduced to the other dogs in a very gentle manner, one dog at a time. If your dog is not demonstrating any signs of stress, fear, or aggression, he will be introduced to a small playgroup whose personalities match that of your dog. As at least one of our experienced staff members is always with the dogs, they are able to watch and ensure the smooth integration of your pup into the group. |
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I'm finding it really difficult to train my dog, and I can't commit to a class. Can one of your trainers train my dog for me? |
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Absolutely! Our Training Academy location offers a fun and unique program called Play ‘n Train, which combines our daycare services with private training. Additional information can be found here.
What are the risks of leaving my dog in daycare?
The daycare is a public environment, and as such, there are certain risks that you should be aware of before committing your dog to a daycare regimen. Pet Planet's standards of care greatly exceed those of the industry in general, and as such, we do everything possible to create a safe and comfortable environment for all dogs.
Common risks to daycare dogs include lice, kennel cough, and papilloma. Your Caregiver can provide you with additional information on how to minimize and in some cases eliminate these risks to your dog.
Is daycare the best solution for every dog?
Most dogs will enjoy a daycare experience to some degree. There are many factors that influence whether or not your dog will enjoy daycare, however, daycare is not for every dog. If your dog is old, in pain, ill, aggressive, or suffers from severe behavioural disturbances, daycare may exacerbate these issues. The daycare setting is generally a fast-paced and high energy environment. We are happy to accommodate less active or playful dogs, or dogs with special requirements, and generally recommend a minimum of five visits before making a determination as to whether your dog will enjoy daycare. Sometimes it is apparent from the first visit that this is not the ideal environment for your dog, and in these cases, a Caregiver will discuss alternate options with you. |
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