Class may not run for an hour and a half due to the amount of distraction and level of concentration. This is a class to prepare the raiser for regular meetings, and how to approach any situation. This will also demonstrate to the raiser that some situations are too much for the puppy. Ending the outing is okay, and repeat exposures might be necessary. The puppy is the focus, and not just along for the ride. No matter what the raiser is intending to do while training, the puppy must be the focus.

Area Leader/Puppy Kindergarten Teacher should scope out a location where there are real life distractions that will challenge the puppy but ensure success. Start class the moment each puppy gets out of the car.

Goal

Puppy always demonstrates impulse control. Being out in the community gives the raiser practice with an experienced person to coach them through situations and answer any questions the raiser may have.

Set Up

• The puppy must have completed the first 5 weeks of kindergarten class
• The puppy demonstrates an understanding of all behaviors taught in class
• The handler must be confident and understand all protocols

Procedure

1. Place paw pad close to the car, before removing the puppy.
2. Get the puppy out of the car and immediately walk the puppy into position on the paw pad.
3. Mark and reward for standing calmly on the paw pad.
4. After several marks and rewards for calm behavior, start cuing puppy into other positions such as sit and down. This will set the tone for what is expected of a calm and focused puppy.
5. When the puppy is successful at moving into several positions near the car, pick up the paw pad and move closer to distractions. Keep in mind that success is key and short distances are crucial.
6. Mark and reward puppy for calm behavior several times then start cuing for other positions.
7. If the puppy is unable to remain calm and demonstrate various positions, retreat to where the last successes were achieved and repeat steps.
8. If the puppy is successful, continue moving short distances closer to distractions.
9. If the puppy cannot remain calm and focused, the session should end and the puppy should go home to work on impulse control with less distraction.
10. Some puppies may not leave the parking lot and that is okay. The raiser should be accepting of the puppy’s successes and limitations.
11. Raisers should work on approach at all meetings. They may need to spend the next month working on approaching all the distractions that occur at a meeting and may not get into the actual meeting. Puppies should be calm and focused at all meetings.
12. The puppy must be successful! There is no point in pushing beyond the puppy’s limits. If the handler becomes frustrated, embarrassed, or in any way discombobulated, the puppy will feed off it. The raiser must remain calm!