Dog Training in Big Rapids, MI
Your puppy has a lot to learn--and maybe your adult dog does, too! At Riversbend Animal Hospital, our dog training helps you build a deeper bond with your dog through better communication. Our long-time instructor Debbie Szot teaches all our courses, offering years of experience to dog owners of Big Rapids, MI.
Debbie is an evaluator of the American Kennel Club (AKC). Through Debbie your dog can be tested for the S.T.A.R. Puppy Program, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Urban Canine Good Citizen, Advanced Canine Good Citizen (CGCA), and Trick Dog Titles including: Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Performer, Elite Performer. Debbie is also a Tester/Observer for Alliance of Therapy Dogs.
Debbie competes in AKC Agility and CPE Agility with her Boxer, Journey. Her youngest dog, a Shetland Sheepdog named Sketch, is in training for competition in agility. Debbie enjoyed competing with her dog Riley in AKC RALLY Obedience. Over the years Riley, Kegan, Hannah, Rusty, Zoe, Lexy, Traveler, and Britta have worked with her as volunteer Therapy Dogs. Currently, Zubie, Annie, Journey, and Sketch volunteer with Debbie and her husband David as Therapy Dogs.
Contact our veterinary practice at (231) 796-3507, to se up your next cat and dog training consultation.
What to Expect at Dog Obedience Class
We have two main classes for puppies and adult dogs. Both classes feature a mix of basic dog training as well as confidence building and social skills. The goal of these classes is to not only teach commands such as heel, sit, down, and come, but to help you and your dog live a well-balanced life. Once you are signed up, you need to come to your first class prepared with the following:
- Standard 6-foot leash
- Proper fitting collar. You can use a standard buckle collar or training collar. Training collars are available for purchase at class.
- Treats! We highly encourage treats for positive reinforcement, so please bring your dog's favorite!
- Proof of current vaccinations. Vaccines needed are rabies, DHLPP, and Bordetella. Puppies must be current in accordance with their age.
If you have any questions or you feel your dog may be overly aggressive toward people or other animals, give instructor Debbie Szot a call at (231) 796-3507.
Beyond the Basics
After your dog has completed a basic dog training, they will be eligible for more advanced training. Here are more classes to enroll your dog in:
Additionally, for more individualized training, private and semi-private lessons are available. These sessions are particularly useful if you struggle to communicate with your dog, or behavioral issues are preventing you from making progress.
For behavioral consultation, please contact Debbie Szot at (231) 796-3507 to arrange an appointment.
The What, When, and Where
We hold each class at our animal hospital at 745 Water Tower Road in Big Rapids. Keep in mind that class sizes are limited, and prepaid pre-registration is required.
Class times are as follows:
- Puppy classes, for puppies 12 weeks to 6 months of age, are once a week at 6:00 P.M. Tuesdays or Thursdays
- Adult dog classes, for dogs over 6 months, are once a week at 7:15 P.M. Tuesdays or Thursdays
- Therapy, Obedience Level Two, RALLY, and Agility classes are offered at different times throughout the year.
For more information on class schedules and costs, please consult our resource page here.
Please don't hesitate to call (231) 796-3507 if you have any questions or concerns!
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