Dog Obedience Classes Sunshine Coast

OUR DOG OBEDIENCE CLASS LEVELS

Stage 1 – Foundation Obedience

Stage 1 of the program focuses on foundation obedience, introducing dogs to basic commands like sit, drop, recall, leave it, take it, accept nail trimming, preparation for vet visits, place training, asking permission to greet other dogs, and developing focus. This stage also emphasises socialisation and teaches dogs how to interact appropriately with people and other dogs. This class level is conducted on a standard length leash.

Stage 2 – Progressive Obedience

Stage 2 is designed to build on the foundation skills learned in the first stage. This stage introduces more distraction, distance and duration with commands and develops extra behaviours, including leaving food on the ground on walks. This stage is conducted on a long line so we start increasing the reliability of these commands at a larger distance.

Stage 3 – Advanced Obedience (Off Leash)

Stage 3 is the advanced obedience level and is for dogs who have successfully completed the first two stages and have been invited to enrol in the Advanced Class. This stage challenges dogs to master complex commands such as off-leash recall, distance commands, and more advanced skills – including out of sight stays.

To participate in the program, owners pay for the first two levels upfront and can progress at their own pace, taking as many classes as they need at each level. The classes are ongoing, meaning there is no set start or end date, and owners can join at any time. There is no limit to the number of classes an owner can do at each level, ensuring that their dog has ample opportunity to learn and practice the skills they need to become a well-behaved companion.

Assessments

Obedience Classes also include regular assessments to ensure that dogs are making progress and ready to move on to the next level of training. These assessments are held every 3-4 months and give owners and trainers a chance to evaluate the dog’s skills and determine whether they are ready to move on to the next stage.

During these assessments, dogs will be tested on the skills they have learned in the previous stage and given the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities. If the dog successfully passes the assessment, they can then progress to the next level of training. If there are areas where the dog needs improvement, the trainers will provide feedback and guidance on how to continue working on those skills.

These assessments are a valuable tool for both owners and trainers, as they help ensure that dogs are learning and progressing at a steady pace. By providing a structured program with regular assessments, Paws, Claws & Tails’ Group Dog Obedience Classes give owners a clear roadmap for their dog’s training and help them build a strong foundation of obedience skills.