Puppy Kindergarten
January 10, 2026 @ 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meet the team
Cassandra
Animal Behavior & Enrichment Supervisor
Alex
Animal Behavior & Enrichment Specialist
PUPPY KINDERGARTEN is for puppies between 8 weeks and 5 months on the first day of class. This class is designed to focus on teaching basic cues only. Class topics may include the following, but are often tailored to individual classes:
- Basic cues (sit, name, down, polite greetings, etc.)
- Introduction to loose leash walking
- Additional focus on timing and reinforcement during training
- Introduction to foundation cues for everyday
- Problem solving
- Problem prevention
Fees
$85, 4 sessions of 50-minute lessons.
Note about Treats
The best way to train your pet is through the proper use of positive reinforcement and rewards. Please bring plenty of high-value treats to class, such as cut-up hot dogs, cheese, chicken, and chewy training treats. You’ll likely use more than you think!
Class Requirements
PREREQUISITES – There are no prerequisites for Puppy Life Skills.
ITEMS NEEDED – Standard flat collar and a 6-foot standard leash. Correctly fitted body harnesses are also allowed. Pinch collars, head halters, electronic collars, or retractable leashes are not permitted. Small, bite-sized treats in a pouch or bag.
VACCINATION RECORDS – All adult dogs are required to be dated on both distemper (DHPP/DHLPP) and rabies vaccines. Puppies are required to have age-appropriate vaccinations based on veterinarian recommendation. Bordetella is highly recommended.
Your pet’s records need to be received prior to class start.
Please email your dogs vaccination records to dogtraining@arl-iowa.org
Please have the owner’s name, the dog’s name and the class dates clearly identified.
DOG POLICIES – Females currently “IN HEAT” (estrus day 1 – day 21) are not allowed in classes. If this becomes a concern, please contact the Training Department at dogtraining@arl-iowa.org.
REGISTRATION – Register by clicking on the class dates you are interested in. You will be stepped through the online registration process. Payment will be through the online registration system. No registration will be considered confirmed without payment.
