Have you noticed your dog may need some training? Maybe basic commands would make things run smoother at home, or your puppy is growing up quickly and you need a little assistance. We have multiple group training classes suited to your pup’s individual needs. From Puppy Elementery to Basic Obedience and Rocket Recall, our expert trainers work to strengthen the relationship between you and your fur baby. Each class focuses on changing a dog’s behavior by using teachable moments to create success while rewarding positive behavior.      

Before you and your dog get started, there’s a few things you should know. Preparation is key, so you can get the most out of the time you spend in class with our expert trainers. Follow our tips to prepare for a successful class session.     

What do I need to bring to class? 

You'll need a few items to get started. These are required for each pet parent in each training class we offer.  

You'll need:   

  • A treat pouch: This will allow you to quickly reward your dog at the right moment for different behaviors they’re learning. Timing is everything when it comes to training!
  • Martingale collar: This is a type of no-slip collar with two loops of fabric. We require these for all services at JM Pet Resort.

  • Close-toed shoes: For your safety and others, please avoid sandals, flip-flops, etc. Sneakers are a safe bet!

  • High value treats: “High value” simply means treats that your pup gets very excited about and enjoys only on occasion. You want your training treats to feel “special” so they will be a great motivator! Read more on high-value treats here.

  • A good attitude: Your energy affects your dog and each class participant, so make a good impression. No need to be nervous, your confidence and positivity will be infectious. Go get ‘em!

Optional, but recommended:     

Don’t have everything on the list? We got you! We offer everything you need for group classes right here in our Retail store – and you can save more when you buy multiple training tools at once, with our bundle deals. Click here to fetch coupons!      

Your most important tool is a positive mindset

It’s been said before: attitude is everything! There is a lot of trial and error in training classes. If your dog has never been to a group class, be forgiving with yourself and your dog. You both are taking in a lot of new information. A new environment may cause your dog to become scared, act out, or ignore your instruction. Stimuli such as new smells, people, and other unknown dogs may overwhelm your pup.      

Mistakes will happen, and that’s how you grow. Everyone starts somewhere. Keep an open mind and celebrate the wins!     

3 Steps to prepare the morning of class

1. Skip breakfast (or keep it light)

Please do not feed your dog a full breakfast on the day of class, as they will be getting plenty of treats to motivate them throughout class. We don’t want your dog getting sick. The ideal situation is an active and attentive dog that’s willing to work for treats. If your dog already ate plenty, they may not be as motivated. Your dog will also be prone to weight gain if you feed them a typical full meal with an abundance of treats shortly after. If your dog doesn’t end up eating many treats in a training session, you’re welcome to feed them after class. If your pup is known to vomit due to not eating early in the morning, you can offer between a quarter to half of their typical serving of breakfast, so they have something in their belly.     

2. Go potty

This tip is for both you and your dog! We recommend that you both take a chance to use the restroom prior to the start of class. This will keep you and your pup from missing instruction. Be respectful of your trainer’s time and the attention of the other pet parents in class; interruptions may throw them and their dogs off their game. Minimize distraction for everyone by setting aside potty time for your pup before class.     

3. Arrive early!

Start your training right away. If you begin the day with productivity as a motivator, your dog will follow suit. Treat the ride to JM Pet Resort as a transitional period where you and your dog begin a bond that will strengthen throughout your training classes (and beyond!).      

Segueing from a familiar environment to an unfamiliar one can be jarring for your dog. Arrive 15 minutes early and double check your gear, assess your dog’s temperament, and run through a few familiar commands (if your dog already completes them with ease) as a jumping-off point to get your pet started. Asking your dog to perform a simple command they know well (like ‘Sit!’) and giving a small high-value treat will signal to them that it’s time to focus. This will help you and your pup walk into the class with purpose—literally and figuratively!     

After Class

Practice, practice, practice! Training won’t be completed in a day, and your pup needs to get acclimated to using the commands from class in a home environment. Most of our classes run 4-6 weeks long, and you should plan to build off of what was learned each week. Set your pet up for success by setting aside time to go over training daily. Use tools learned in class at home and you’ll notice a difference in no time.      

If you bring another person from your household to class, have them enforce the commands, too. In public and at home, you should be enforcing training wherever you go. Versatility is a benefit of training and will strengthen the bond between you and your pup. Make sure to give your dog praise and treats to reward them for their work!     

Ready to get started? 

If this will be your first training class at JM Pet Resort, please book your Training Consultation prior to signing up for a class. Our $40 Training Consultation is an opportunity to meet one-on-one with your dog and one of our trainers, giving us a chance to get to know your dog, address anything you’d like to work on, and make recommendations as to which classes will most benefit your pup’s needs. If you’ve already finished your Consultation or taken a class with us before, check out our upcoming group classes.