Canine Good Neighbour

Adult     Canine Good Neighbour

ChooseCGN: upcoming dates TBA - $35.00

Description

In these classes we apply/practice/hone skills that you already have. You don't have to be perfect, but this it is not a class for beginners! The lessons are stand-alone, meaning that you can register for each lesson individually rather than a series. Note: while passing a Canine Good Neighbour Test is not a requirement for all therapy-dog programs this class covers many of the skills that would be required in those type of assessments.

Pre-requisites: Dog is at least 6 months old; friendly to humans and will allow strangers to touch them; has previously attended an indoor group class; is able to comfortably work in close proximity to other dogs; and is well-practiced with skills such as sit, down, coming when called and loose-leash walking around distractions.

The topics can be attended in any order. They are stand-alone lessons. While not required, once you are well-practiced and comfortable, there are Canine Good Neighbour Test offered periodically in the Calgary area.

Activities include:
Lesson 1: Accepting A Friendly Stranger, Walking Through A Crowd, Reaction To A Passing Dog
Lesson 2: Politely Accepts Petting, Sit/Down On Cue and Stay In Place, Reaction To Distractions
Lesson 3: Appearance and Grooming, Come When Called, Supervised Isolation
Lesson 4: Out For A Walk, Praise/Interaction, Walking Through A Door/Gate

Note for Lesson 3: Supervised Isolation means that you leave your dog with another person for a short period of time. The idea that is if you had to use the restroom, for example, that your dog could wait with another person. The dog just has to be able to be with that person (it is not a down-stay or a sit-stay).

Teams: Maximum of 4
Class Length: 45-60 minutes
Parking: in front of building or on the street
What to bring: treat pouch filled with pea-sized treats

More about the Canine Good Neighbour program from the CKC website:

The 12-step test is non-competitive and allows dog and handler to demonstrate confidence and control in 12 steps. It assesses the handler and dog's relationship, together with the handler's ability to control the dog. Dogs are evaluated on their ability to perform basic exercises as well as their ability to demonstrate good manners in everyday situations.

The training program embraces both purebred and mixed-breed dogs and is fun, rewarding, and useful. It encourages owners to have a better and richer relationship with their dogs. The program also enhances community awareness of responsible dog ownership and the numerous benefits associated with dog ownership.