AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program

A Canine Understanding is happy to be offering the American Kennel Club's AKC S.T.A.R Puppy Program with a unique approach!

We have watched so many puppies and owners be successful in a traditional classroom, only to then struggle out in the community. This can cause frustration for both the puppy and the handler. Therefore, we altered the way we do things to help increase success and lower frustration.

We now hold our puppy classes spring through fall outside in parks within the Vancouver area. Meeting outdoors helps build a strong foundation for your puppy to grow on amongst distractions within the community. It also ensures you develop the skills needed through real world instruction to hold your puppy's attention and help them be successful as they grow and mature. 

During this 6-week in person puppy kindergarten we will focus on everything that puppies and their owners need to give them both the best possible start on their journey together.

You will learn to read and understand your puppy's body language, and how to implement positive reinforcement training to help them grow in their knowledge and skills. 

       We will cover:

• Sit,

• Down,

• Loose leash walking,

• Beginning Recall,

• Socialization, 

• Politely Greeting Strangers, 

• Exposure & Response to new things.

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Additionally, we will discuss crate training, house breaking, car safety, teaching impulse control, how to set your puppy up for success and more!
 

The class is open to all puppies of ANY breed/mix with or without AKC registration.

This class is best suited for puppies ages 8 weeks to 6 months.

If you have a puppy 7-12 months of age Beginning Obedience may be a better fit.  ​

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Class Requirements:

Current age-appropriate vaccines.

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The cost for the 6-week course is $220

Classes are limited to a maximum of 6 puppies to ensure you get the attention needed for you and your puppy to succeed!

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Classes are closed for the season. Please follow the link below to be placed on the waitlist for Spring Classes.