Puppy Sessions
Like Puppy Class, But Different…
Rather rather than a traditional class format, Doghouse Puppy Sessions run as a rolling 4 week block offering a blend of fun, exploration and learning for both you and your puppy.
Think of them as puppy “starter sessions” focusing on the essentials needed in developing the foundations of a happy partnership between you and your puppy such as understanding breed needs & how to meet them, how to prevent and build behaviour, kind approaches to connect & bond with your puppy, walking your puppy, recall, toilet training, biting and mouthing, proper socialisation, play and much more.
Time is allocated at the end of each class for Q&A and puppy play if appropriate.
“I took my very petit Italian greyhound to a puppy class that regarded all dogs equal. I was bullied by the trainer because I didn’t believe in dominant control of my dog. I left that class and went to Natalie’s puppy class and am so grateful that I found her. She is a compassionate, understanding dog lover that understands the individual needs of varied dog breeds. I highly recommend Natalie if you regard your dog as an extension of your family and want the best for them.”
- Sandra B & Gracie
Puppy Sessions
For puppies from 10 weeks up to 5 months old
5 puppies per class
4 sessions $270
Session One: Preventing bad habits, common puppy behaviour struggles, building good habits and engagement games.
Session Two: Proper socialisation, navigating interactions with people and other dogs, leash walking.
Session Three: Independence and separation, interactive play, fulfilling breed needs, outlets, mental stimulation and enrichment.
Session Four: Building your recall.
Adolescent Sessions
For puppies aged between 6 - 18 months old
4 puppies per class
4 sessions $280
*If your young dog is struggling e.g barking at dogs and/or people, a class environment may not be right for them and 1 on 1 sessions are recommended. Please get in touch if you would like more guidance on what support will be most suitable for you and your puppy.
What will we cover in these sessions?
Instead of obedience think life skills...
• the ability to interact appropriately with other dogs and people
• the ability to settle & switch off
• the ability to move with you on lead
• the ability to remain connected with you when off lead
• the ability to be happy alone for short periods
• the ability to move confidently through the world
These are the skills which will make a practical, positive difference throughout your life with your dog. There's absolutely nothing wrong with teaching traditional obedience skills (and doing so can be a fun thing to do with your dog) but I'd always start with these lifeskills because these are the things which will give you the most bang for your buck throughout your dog's life.
FAQs
How much does it cost?
The cost for our 4 week face to face program is $270 (10wks-5mths) $280 (6mths-18mths)
How many puppies are in a class?
In order to create a positive experience and avoid overwhelm for puppies during their sensitive period of development our classes are limited to 4 puppies per class.
Each puppy has their own private space for the full four weeks.
Safe, supervised puppy play is optional at the end of each class.
Can the whole family come?
We can accommodate 2 family members per puppy.
Any children attending are the parent’s responsibility.
How do you train dogs?
We take a relationship centred approach to raising and training dogs, choosing kindness and consideration for the dogs point of view to create positive learning experiences and trust.
What should I bring to class?
Your hungry pup with a flat collar and/or harness, lots of yummy soft bite-sized treats your pup loves, and a copy of your vaccination certificate if not already provided.