Puppy Training & Programs

Here at Dog’s Day Out we believe the beginning stages of a dog’s life are extremely important and if you’re lucky enough to be able to have your dog at a young age, we are excited to be able to help you start him off right!

Early socialization and learning is imperative for puppies. In fact, this needs to happen BEFORE your puppy is 16 weeks old (ideally before 14 weeks!). If you wait until your puppy has “finished his shots” you are too late.  Preventing potential problems is much easier that correcting problems later!

PLEASE READ the following links on the importance of early puppy socialization as well as the position statement from the American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) on early socialization for puppies. Also, see What is Socialization and ways to safely do it.

We offer a variety of Ballard and West Seattle puppy training classes and programs designed specifically for young dogs.

PUPPY POUNCE: A 4-week class for dogs 8 to 16 weeks old
Pup must have had their initial Distemper/Parvo vaccine no less than 7 days prior to the start of class.  This puppy training course will cover age specific issues such as house training, desensitization to sights, sounds & handling, mouthing/nipping, bite inhibition,  jumping up and impulse control.  We will also start beginning work on basic cues including: focus (look, touch), sit, down, come and loose leash walking. We will discuss what to expect in different stages of canine development and allow pups to socialize with others during supervised “recess” periods. This class is more comprehensive and structured than Pupply Play & Train. Positive reinforcement only; no leash corrections will be used. INSTRUCTOR: Danette Johnston, CPDT-KA

PUPPY PLAY & TRAIN: 45-minute play sessions for puppies 8-20 weeks (Ballard only)Pup must have had their initial Distemper/Parvo vaccine no less than 10 days prior to session. Looking for a bit more socialization time for your pup? You can jump into this group anytime! In this rolling-start play group you can socialize your puppy in a safe and monitored environment and get a few training tips as well. Each week a trainer will be on hand to answer any questions on puppy specific management topics or teach new skills based on needs of the participants. Don’t let your pup miss out on learning crucial socialization, play and bite inhibition skills from his fellow pups. These sessions work very well when done in conjunction with Puppy Pounce but are not as comprehensive in education and training concepts. Play & Train is not meant to take the place of the more structured and comprehensive Puppy Pounce class.

You can register for 6 sessions for $140 online (paid 1^st week and used before pup is 20 weeks old). See listings for online registration at right – register for any upcoming date listed and start sooner! Or, pay as you go for as many or few sessions as you would like for $25/session (paid at session, no online registration for single sessions).

PUPPY 101: A special human-only seminar
Whether you have a new puppy, are thinking of getting one, or just missed getting into a puppy training class, this seminar will get you started on the basics of what you need to know to raise a great pup! We will discuss the best methods of management, house breaking, desensitization, socialization and stages of canine development. If this seminar is not offered when you need it, consider scheduling a New Puppy/Dog Consultation.

We also offer specialized private dog training sessions for puppies either at Dog’s Day Out in Ballard or in your home (select areas).

Not all classes are offered each season. Please check our Ballard dog training schedule or West Seattle dog training schedule for current listings and locations.

How much are the classes? Please see our rates and services page for class, daycare and seminar costs.

How do I sign up? Click the class you want on the right side of this page or, or more information, please contact us by phone 206-706-4875 or email at danette@dogsdayoutseattle.com.