level one: puppy
the kuma way puppy course is designed for puppies under the age of one, and over the age of 8 weeks. this course will be very similar to the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy course for those familiar with it. below is a list of the expected skills and behaviors to be demonstrated by the puppy by the end of the class. the puppy should allow the following without showing signs of fear or aggression. right now i'm offering an introductory price of $200 for the full course, which includes 10 private, one-hour training sessions, once per week for 10 weeks.
skills
do a sit and down on command with or without a lure
look at owner on command with or without a lure for any duration
do a sit and down stay for at least 30 seconds either toe-to-toe, or ideally 3 feet away from your dog with a leash.
come from the end of a six foot leash to owner
heel on a leash by owner without excessive pulling
behaviors
allows owner to hold or hug them
allows owner to examine (touch) their ears, feet, tail, tummy, and teeth
allows trainer to pet or touch them
allows trainer to hold them on leash while owner walks 10ft away
allows trainer to walk them 15 feet on leash
reacts normally to distractions (i.e. to be startled by a loud noise, such as a metal bowl dropping, without running away)
owner handling and care knowledge
owner should demonstrate the ability to maintain puppy's health and happiness through vaccinations, regular play, exercise, feeding and grooming.
owner should have sufficient identification for puppy, i.e. a collar with a tag and optionally a microchip.
owner should understand how to mark negative and positive behaviors in puppy
owner should understand the basic uses of different training tools and skills including leashes, collars, harnesses, halters, treats, praise, etc.
owner should feel comfortable and confident in their ability to handle their dog