Revised 12-10-04

Class Name:     Beginning Clicker Obedience

Target dogs and age range:     dogs needing basic obedience skills, 4 months and older. Classes separated by age of dog.

Goals:     to help dogs become well-mannered members of the family, socialize with other dogs and people, problem solving for minor behavior problems, develop basic skills for dog sports.

Prerequisites:     none.

Promotion:     Must exhibit calm behavior around other dogs/people and owner must have control of dog verbally and physically (successfully completing this class allows entry into Beginner Agility, Pre-Novice Obedience and Rally obedience classes).

Class size, duration:     Maximum 6 dog/handler teams, 8 weeks, one hour per week.

Publications for instructor guidance: “Teaching Clicker Classes” by Deb Jones, Ph.D.

Skills covered in class:

    developing a bond with the dog

    general dog care and expectations

    shaping versus luring

    eliminating unwanted behaviors

    attention to handler

    basic commands using verbal and hand signals (sit, down, stand, loose-leash walking, coming when called)

    tricks

    interactive play with the dog

    targeting

    intro to agility (7th class)

    demo of other dog sports (8^th class)

Equipment provided by the handler:

    4' - 6' leather or cloth leash (NO nylon)

    plain buckle or quick snap collar (No tags) or head halter as needed

    variety of treats

    motivating toy

Equipment provided by GLKC: clicker, agility equipment.