Winter 2020 Level 1 Curriculum
January 23-March 19,2020

Module 1: Canine Learning Theory

Learn about the history of dog training, the evolution of dog training and breeds, learning theory, luring, extinction, timing, schedules of reinforcement, habituation, counter conditioning, socialization, temperament evaluation and assessment, training approach and the common mistakes in dog training. We also cover clicker training and behaviour modification techniques.
Module length: 10 hours

Module 2: Canine Handling and Obedience

The focus of this module is to improve your confidence in training and handling of unfamiliar dogs. You will learn about non-aversive training equipment and how to use it properly. Students will learn and perform basic obedience commands and how to correct common faults in dog handling. You learn long line training and how to walk a dog with a loose leash. Additionally, we learn to manage and rehabilitate reactive dogs. 

Module length: 21 hours (includes 11 hours of group classes at the Training Center)

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Module 3: Dog Behaviour Assessment and Training

This next module you will learn how to read body language, understand canine communication, the importance of play in canine communication, the development of social skills during play, exercise and its effect on behavior, safe handling techniques, hormones and their effect on behavior, genetic influences on behavior, how to establish leadership without dominance and preventing and correcting common behavior problems in dogs.
Module length: 10 hours

Module 4: Designing and Marketing Classes

This last module teaches you how to design and conduct private obedience classes, group obedience and puppy socializing classes, intermediate obedience and agility classes and workshops. You learn how to conduct a behaviour evaluation, complete all client information forms including waivers and liability release forms.  We cover how to review client goals and creating appropriate training plans. 
We also cover business strategies like marketing techniques and how to start a dog training business.
Students attend at least two hours of private consultations with dog owners.
You must successfully pass a written exam at the end of this module.
Module length: 10 hours

Module 1

Canine Learning Theory

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1.  Thurs January 23, 6-8:30

2.  Sat January 25, 3-5:30

3.  Thurs January 30, 6-8:30

4.  Sat February 1, 3-5:30

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Module 2

Canine Handling and Obedience

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1. Thurs February 6, 6-8:30

2. Sat Feburary 8, 3-5:30

3. Thurs February 13, 6-8:30

4. No Class Sat February 15

5. Thurs February 20, 6-8:30

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Module 3

Dog Behaviour Assessment and Training

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1. Sat February 22, 3-5:30

2. Thurs February 27, 6-8:30

3. Sat February 29,3-5:30

4. Thurs March 5, 6-8:30

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Module 4

Designing and Marketing Classes

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1. Sat March 7, 3-5:30 - Observe and participate in puppy classes 10-2 pm

2. Thurs March 12, 6-8:30

3. Sat March 14, 3-5:30

4. Thurs March 19 6-8:30 (Practical Exam)

Final exam to be emailed to student

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