Introducing Pattern Games For Reactivity, our virtual 6-week dog training group class designed for dogs that display “reactivity” (barking, lunging, leash pulling, and/or growling) around other dogs/humans, particularly on leash. These behaviors can be out of fear or excitement. This course is perfect for dog owners seeking a laidback introductory class that combines positive reinforcement training techniques and pattern training games from Leslie McDevitt’s Control Unleashed program.
We understand that the focus should not be on simply acing obedience skills, as this approach sometimes backfires and adds unnecessary pressure on your relationship with your dog. Instead, our course emphasizes the unique connection between you and your dog, providing a platform to discover simple pattern-based training games, nurture growth, and establish a solid foundation for all your future endeavors together.
What Topics are Covered in Pattern Games for Reactivity Class?
Throughout the course, we will explore various pattern games designed by Leslie McDevitt from her Control Unleashed program. Our focus will be helping dogs that display reactive behaviors, particularly on leash, look to their owners for support and learn to be more neutral during encounters with dogs and people. We will also teach you positive reinforcement techniques to enhance your dog’s focus and desire to be by your side.
Understanding your dog's behavior and signals is an integral part of the course. Together, we will ensure that you can recognize when your dog is enjoying themselves or needs assistance, strengthening your communication with each other.
Learn how to read your dog’s behavior and understand when to step in before they go over threshold during training sessions.
Learn training games for use in the context of reactivity towards animals, people, and even household items like vacuums. (Reactivity is barking/growling at, lunging towards, and/or pulling towards/away from the trigger. This can be out of excitement, frustration, or fear for the context of this class.)
Learn how to build connection and focus through positive reinforcement-based training methods and pattern games at your dog’s pace.
Learn pattern games like 1-2-3, Look At That, Super Bowls, Whiplash Turn, LATTE, and more.
Build a solid foundation with positive reinforcement-based methods that can be used for any of your future endeavors with your dog.
Learn in a laidback virtual setting with professional guidance and suggestions without worrying about if you or your dog will “pass or fail” the class.
This is our most affordable class for reactivity with personalized feedback for all students attending live classes.
Who Should Take This Class?
This virtual format is ideal for dogs with fearful or reactive behaviors, as well as those who are a little shy or prefer to keep their distance.
We welcome dogs from ages 5 months and up, as well as dogs with medical concerns as long as the vet has cleared them for low-impact training. However, please let us know about your dog’s condition so, we can best help you during class.
Beginner human and dog students are the target for this class. However, we welcome more advanced students who just want to attend a laidback class focused on building connection with their dog.
Class is limited to 5 dog/human teams - only one dog per human handler please.
We also extend a warm welcome to any humans who may require specific accommodations. If you're uncertain whether this course is suitable for your needs or if you may need personalized modifications, please don't hesitate to reach out to us directly via email.
Payment for class is non-refundable once purchased.
Class Details
COST: $175 for the 6 week group class for 1 dog, which includes five 1-hr Zoom group classes with dogs and one 1-hr Zoom in the first week to discuss needed supplies and the basics of how class will run. All Zooms will be recorded for you to access later.
Not financially available to you? Please read about our sliding scale program or scholarships for those in urgent need.
LOCATION: Virtually over Zoom.
ZOOM DATES:
Week #1: Class Introduction w/o dogs: July 10th, 2024 at 7pm CT
Week #2 w/ dogs: July 17th, 2024 at 7pm CT
Week #3 w/ dogs: July 24th, 2024 at 7pm CT
Week #4 w/ dogs: July 31st, 2024 at 7pm CT
Week #5 w/ dogs: August 7th, 2024 at 7pm CT
Week #6 w/ dogs: August 14th, 2024 at 7pm CT
INSTRUCTOR: Lauren Tsao, MS, CDBC, CPDT-KA, CTDI
SUPPLIES:
3 bowls or flat lids to place treats in/on (or if your dog eats quickly, 3 lick mats or snuffle mats)
Several simple enrichment items like a snuffle mat, rolled towel dog can sniff through, and/or lick mat
A regular 5ft to 6ft leash and a front clip harness (We recommend Blue-9’s Balance Harness)
Various high-value treats
*Note: This class is taught using positive reinforcement-based methods. No prong/pinch collars, choke chains, slip leads, or e-collars (stim/shock/vibrate/beep) will be allowed in class. Dogs should have either a well-fitted harness that does not restrict movement.