Here's your school supply list:
1. A treat pouch to keep your treats handy & accessible without having to hold them in your hands (impossible, I promise). This can be a fancy dog training treat pouch (we sell them at the schools), or you can use a fanny pack, chalk bag, apron, hoodie pocket, etc.
2. Treats! The most important part.
a. High value, please. Real meat or cheese, something soft, and it likely won't be shelf-stable. Hot dogs, boiled plain chicken breast, cheddar cheese, deli meat, leftovers, etc.
b. Lots of them! Learning can only happen through repetition. For Puppy Start Right, you'll need approximately 100 treats (about one regular hot dog's worth). For Foundation Skills, likely 200-300 treats.
c. Small pieces. We don't want to overfeed our dogs. Please cut the pieces very small, about pea-sized for medium/large dogs and half a pea for small dogs and puppies.
3. Pacifier. Our dogs need to be quiet, calm, & occupied during times when instructors are teaching and demonstrating exercises. Please bring a pacifier (bully stick, Yak cheese, stuffed Kong, snuffle mat, etc.) to keep your dog busy so that you can learn.
4. Equipment. Nothing special! Regular harness or collar, and fixed 4-6 foot leash. Please, no Flexi leashes, slip leads, E-collars, prong collars, etc. Well-fitted martingales and head halters are OK.
5. Preparation. Please make sure your dog is a bit exercised, has pottied, and has skipped their meal. Morning class, skip breakfast. Evening class, skip dinner. We want them hungry and ready to work!