Program Outline 

Lesson 1 – Training Fundamentals: Your Puppy’s 1st Steps to Success

We start by building a strong communication foundation and showing you how to train effectively. You’ll learn how puppies think, how to get their attention, and how to reinforce good behaviors.

What we cover:

• How dogs learn and why it matters (Canine Learning Theory – loading the clicker)
• The three core teaching methods: Capture, Lure, and Shape
• Name recognition and focus skills
• Basic cues: Sit, Down, Stay
• Teaching your puppy to relax on a mat (stationing)
• Optional potty training guidance

Why it’s important:

By the end of this lesson, you and your puppy will understand how to communicate clearly, setting the stage for all future training.

Lesson 2 – Leash Manners Outdoors: Mastering Walks Without the Pull

We move into real-world skills to make walks enjoyable and controlled. This session focuses on manners and attention outside, even around distractions.

What we cover:

• Boundaries and waiting politely at doors
• Loose leash walking techniques
• Greeting people on a walk: Pin Pon Greetings – Go Say Hi or Stay to the Side Without Interacting
• Look At That (LAT) – a focus and impulse control game around distractions

Why it’s important:

Your puppy will learn to walk without pulling, greet politely, and stay focused even in exciting environments.

Lesson 3 – Improving Communication: Calm, Focused, and Ready to Listen

We bring it all together with impulse control, recall, and ending cues that keep training clear and consistent.

What we cover:

• Leave It & Drop It – ignoring or releasing items on cue
• Reliable recall – coming when called, even from a distance
• Go to Bed/Place – sending your dog to a spot and staying until released
• One fun trick (Spin, Paw, Rollover, or Play Dead)
• “All Done” cue – a clear end signal for training or playtime

Why it’s important:

These skills give you better day-to-day control, help prevent problem behaviors, and teach your puppy how to settle calmly when needed.