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Dog Training Classes

Canine Life Skills Training

Mount Carmel Animal Hospital is pleased to announce the return of Canine Life Skills courses, focusing on basic skills for puppies and young adult dogs. We are not currently offering individual sessions or advanced training for adult dogs.

Each course will consist of four 1-hour sessions. Registrants must attend the sessions for which they are registered. No make-up sessions or alternate session options are available. Please be sure to register for a session that meets your schedule. Please be sure to register for a session that does not conflict with any planned spay/neuter surgery and allows two full weeks of recovery following surgery.

While our training area is spacious, the HVAC system in that area makes the following COVID-19 safety protocols necessary:

  • One adult handler per registered dog.
  • If you feel unwell, please do not come to class.

About Canine Life Skills Courses at MCAH

We believe that all dogs deserve training and a responsible owner. Basic training courses are an important component of responsible pet ownership. Training classes for your new puppy or young adult dog teach you how to communicate with your new addition most effectively. They also provide an opportunity for your dog to socialize with other dogs and learn basic skills. Organized classes also provide an opportunity to learn about housetraining, addressing unwanted behaviors, and learning and executing basic commands in everyday situations.

All courses will consist of 4 one-hour sessions. The courses are designed to teach the handler a range of basic skills needed to foster a good relationship with the dog. Our goal is to create a well-behaved canine companion and a well-socialized pet able to engage positively with other dogs and people. Emphasis is placed on developing trust and communication between handler and dog.

The goals for each training course are general. The ability for handler and dog to reach these goals can be dependent upon the maturity and distractibility of the dog. Additionally, the owner’s ability and willingness to work with their dog at home is a significant factor in skill development. Each dog will be treated as an individual with his or her own unique personality. We will do our best to help each and every dog (and handler) achieve their goals!

Health Condition: canine participants in ALL programs must provide proof of the following:

  • Vaccinations: Rabies, DHPP or DHLPP (Canine Distemper), Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
  • Fecal testing with negative results (free of parasites) within last 12 months

Learn basic commands to help bond your puppy to you and your family. Our training class will provide support and guidance during that impressionable first year. Learning the basic behaviors of sit, down, stay, come, heel and more, will allow you to communicate with your puppy and build a strong foundation for the future. Discuss common puppy behavior and receive practical advice on raising a well-mannered puppy. For older puppies, learn increased focus and control, and how to deal with distractions such as noises, unfamiliar dogs, etc.

This is the ideal class for young adult dogs who were recently adopted or who did not receive training as puppies. All handler skill levels welcome – owners who have trained other dogs and owners who have never been pet parents before. For those looking to expand skills, increase confidence, and develop mastery of control commands.

All prices per dog. No refunds for missed classes due to personal scheduling conflicts. Please discuss any missed classes with your instructor to receive missed information.

Pre-registration required – call 410-343-0200 or email [email protected]

Puppy Level 1: For puppies 6 – 9 months of age — Wednesdays 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM

  • Session 1: 4/12 thru 5/3
  • Session 2: 5/17 thru 6/7

Puppy Level 2: For puppies 9 – 12 months of age — Wednesdays 11:30 am – 12:30 pm

  • Session 1: 4/12 thru 5/3
  • Session 2: 5/17 thru 6/7

Young Adult Level 1: For dogs 12 – 18 months of age — Tuesdays 11:15 am – 12:15 pm

  • Session 1: 4/11 thru 5/2
  • Session 2: 5/16 thru 6/6

Young Adult Level 2: For dogs 18 – 24 months of age — Tuesdays 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

  • Session 1: 4/11 thru 5/2
  • Session 2: 5/16 thru 6/6

Young Adult Level 2: For dogs 18 – 24 months of age — Thursdays 11:15 am - 12:15 pm

  • Session 1: 4/13 thru 5/4
  • Session 2: 5/18 thru 6/8
  • All prices per student.
  • No refunds or make-up dates for missed classes due to personal scheduling conflicts. Please discuss any missed classes with your instructor to receive missed information.
  • COVID Safety Polices:
    • One adult handler per registered dog.
    • If you feel unwell, please do not come to class.
  • Required Health Conditions in order to ensure the health and safety of all participants. Participants in ALL programs must provide proof of the following:
    • Vaccinations: Rabies, DHPP or DHLPP (Canine Distemper), Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
    • Fecal testing with negative results (free of parasites) within last 12 months
  • Collar
    • American Choke or Martingale preferred.
    • Buckle collars acceptable.
    • Shock collars not permitted.
  • Soft lead, 4-6 feet long. Retractable leashes not suitable for class.
  • For practice at home, a small, non-slip rug or yoga mat and treats easy to break into smaller pieces.
  • A positive and enthusiastic attitude!