Enjoy Your Walks with Loose Leash Walking I and II Classes

Loose Leash Walking I

Taught by Kristina Ackerman, this 4-week class is for anyone who wants to learn the basics of Loose Leash Walking. In this class, we’ll start with the basics of Loose Leash Walking without distractions and then with mild distraction.

Class is held indoors and gives both the owner and dog the tools they need to work on both ends of the leash as a team. It’s not just about what to do when your dog pulls, but how to stay connected and teach the relationship-based walk. We also cover hardware and aids that can be used for leash walking. This class is recommended for all students before moving to Advanced Manners class.

When you come to class, please bring your pup in a collar and/or harness with a standard 4 ft – 8 ft leash (no retractable leashes allowed).  Please DON’T feed your pup at least 2 – 3 hours before class starts and come prepared with LOTS of TASTY, SOFT treats, like cheese, cooked chicken, or any soft flavored liver, chicken, or beef treats (NO Milk Bones or crunchy biscuits). Using the same treats you use at home might not work in a distracting class environment. Don’t forget your dog’s water bowl. And bring a Kong or stuffed bone to keep your dog occupied and not barking.

Loose Leash Walking II

This 4-week class, also taught by Kristina Ackerman, takes Loose Leash Walking to the next level by adding more distractions such as turns, slalom walks, and passing people and dogs.

Classes are held outdoors or in our sports dome (to increase distraction). The prerequisite to attend this class is successful completion of Loose Leash Walking I. We also recommend taking this class after Advanced Manners, where dogs learn to work around distractions.

Make sure to bring your dog to class wearing a collar and/or harness, along with a standard 4 to 8-foot leash (please leave retractable leashes at home) and a long lead between 10 and 15 feet. Avoid feeding your pup for at least 2 to 3 hours before class. Pack plenty of high-value,soft treats—think small bits of cheese, cooked chicken, or soft treats with liver, beef, or chicken flavor. (Hard treats like Milk Bones or biscuits aren’t ideal.) Keep in mind that what works at home may not be as effective in a stimulating class environment. Also, don’t forget your dog’s water bowl and a stuffed Kong or chew bone to help keep them calm and occupied if needed.