North St. Louis County
Obedience Training Club Inc
314-741-2445

Ground Rules & Suggestions for Classes

NCOTC DOG TRAINING CLUB
GROUND RULES AND SUGGESTIONS FOR CLASSES

It is necessary that all students follow a few basic rules and suggestions so that we may have a successful training program. These rules and our training procedures apply to everyone, whether you are training to make your dog a better mannered member of your family or to show in the competition ring.

If you have questions about any of the rules, feel free to ask your instructors.

BASIC RULES

  1. All dogs must have the following vaccinations before joining class: DHLPP, Rabies(if over 4 months of age) and BORDETELLA. Proof of the vaccinations must be presented the first night of class. Bordetella is not included in a normal round of vaccinations.
  2. If you cannot be present for the first class, prior approval by the head instructor is required for continuing the class. Call (314) 741-2445.
  3. All students must have proper training equipment. You may purchase the correct equipment at class or from other sources. All dogs must be on leash when enteringthe training facility. Chain and Flexi leashes are not allowed. Leather leashes are preferred, but nylon is also acceptable.
  4. Bitches in season are permitted to participate in class, but must wear doggy britches and use some means of reducing seasonal odor.
  5. Overly aggressive dogs may be required to wear a muzzle, or may be barred from class, at the discretion of the head instructor.
  6. Any dog suspected of having a contagious disease will be barred from class.
  7. Training fees will be refunded up to three days before the first class session. Fees will not be refunded for dogs barred from class under rules 5 and 6.
  8. Should your dog relieve himself, you must clean up after him. Supplies will be provided for this purpose. To help reduce accidents in the training classroom, feed your dog in the morning or after class and potty your dog before coming into the classroom. For puppies, allow at least four hours between the last feeding and start of class, if possible.
  9. Students must be at least 14 years old. If under 14, prior approval must be obtained from the head instructor.
  10. It is best if the same person train the dog throughout the entire class.
  11. Dogs over five months of age should not be allowed to socialize. This is for protection of all students and dogs.
  12. Flat, soft-soled tie shoes are a must while training. This type of shoe will provide secure footing and protect your dog should you accidentally step on his foot. Thongs, sandals and slip-ons are not good foot wear for dog training.
  13. All classes require a proper training collar with no tags attached. Puppy classes use a buckle collar, while all other classes may use a buckle, slip or pinch collar. All non-buckle training collars are for training only and should be replaced with a buckle collar for travel and home.
  14. If you know in advance that you will miss a week of class, ask the instructor to explain the exercises for that week and work at home. If you miss a class, come to the next class – we can get you caught up. Perfect attendance and being on time are very important for successful completion of these training programs.
  15. Students are expected to work with their dogs every day for a minimum of 15 to 30 minutes.

SUGGESTIONS

  1. Pants and slacks are most suitable for training. Avoid pants that drag on the floor or interfere with your dog in any way.
  2. Your dog’s comfort must be considered. Please be careful when working in extreme heat and keep sessions short. Also avoid working on hot blacktop or slick surfaces. A prime requirement for your dog’s safety is sure footing, therefore well trimmed toe nails are a must. If there is any sign of illness, please consult your veterinarian before working your dog.
  3. Playing with your dog before, during and after each training session is important for successful training.
  4. End each training session on a positive note. Make sure your dog is successful on the last exercise of the session, even if you have to repeat an exercise he knows well.
  5. For puppies, several short training sessions each day are helpful. TV commercials provide a great timed opportunity for training your puppy. Dogs in Beginning and Advanced classes, who have developed longer attention spans, can work several 10 to 15 minute sessions each day. Remember, keep it fun, be calm, be consistent and use lots of praise and play when training.
  6. NEVER, NEVER call a dog to you to punish him for unacceptable behavior. You go to the dog.
  7. If your are having trouble or do not understand an exercise, please ask one of the instructors for help. Questions are an important learning tool.

For additional information please call (314) 741-2445