Leash and Learn Group Class

Generalize your dog's behavior in a variety of public settings

Our Leash and Learn Group Class is a progressive three-session program combining structured pack walks with targeted training stops and AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test items practice.

Leash and Learn - Basic Obedience

Program overview

Each session includes:

A pack walk appropriate to the week’s distraction level
Training stops to introduce, reinforce, and proof skills
A focus on developing handler engagement, leash proficiency, and reliable obedience in real-world environments
A brief CGC-style greeting each week
Gradual handler–dog separation exercises to build confidence and neutrality

Session 1 (Low-distraction environment)

Goals: Establish foundation behaviors, engagement, and leash handling.

Location: Quiet park, neighborhood, or open field with minimal foot traffic.

Training Skills

Sit
Down
Down-stay (intro): 6 ft distance, 5–10 seconds
Wait
Recall (intro): 3–4 ft, emphasizing handler clarity and dog commitment
Look / Watch Me for engagement and impulse control
Leash Skills Foundations:
- How to hold the leash
- Reinforced heel position
- Handler focus and dog orientation

Social Skills

CGC-Style Greeting: Calm approach, handler control, polite dog behavior

Confidence / Independence

Owner Separation (intro): 1 minute with neutral handler

Session 2 (Moderate-distraction environment)

Goals: Build reliability around people and mild traffic; increase duration and distance; add movement challenges.

Location: Neighborhood or urban setting with moderate foot traffic.

Training Skills

Polite Greeting
- Greeting without jumping
- Accepting petting without jumping or crowding
Leash Skills Advancement
- Walking through a light crowd
- Maintaining position despite environmental pressure
Automatic Sit: Reinforcing stationary control at halts
Down-stay (intermediate): 10 ft distance, 10–15 seconds
Recall (intermediate): ~6 ft with increased distractions

Social Skills

CGC Greet: Practicing calm, controlled interactions

Confidence / Independence

Owner Separation: 2-minute duration

Session 3 (High-distraction environment)

Goals: Proof behaviors in real-world scenarios; develop consistent response around traffic, movement, and unpredictable stimuli.

Location: Retail or urban area with high foot traffic. Preferably location with outdoor cafes and restaurants.

Training Skills

Automatic Sit + Wait at street crossings or intersections
Directional Walking Drills:
- Right turn
- Left turn
- About turn
- Halt
Down-stay (advanced): 10+ ft distance, 20 seconds
Recall (advanced): Long-line recall beyond 6 ft, increasing reliability under distraction

Social Skills