WEST CAPE MAY – The fall session of area dog training classes will begin on Tue., Oct. 4 in West Cape May. Classes include Puppy Kindergarten, Beginner Training, and Advanced Beginner/Canine Good Citizen. Sessions run for eight weeks at a cost of $80. All dogs, both pure and mixed breeds, are invited to attend.
The training is conducted by the Cape May County Dog Obedience Training Club (CMCDOTC), an American Kennel Club (AKC) affiliated group, who have held training programs in the Cape May area for over 35 years. They are also the sponsor of the annual Mutt Strut, held this year on Sept. 17 on the Cape May Promenade.
In Puppy Kindergarten, for dogs three to six months of age, socializing dogs is emphasized, along with preventing bad habits. Puppies are introduced to basic obedience such as sit, down, come, and stay. The puppy training culminates with qualifying dogs receiving the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy distinction, showing both the dog and owner are off to a good start in Socialization, Training, Activity, and Responsibility.
Beginner Training, for dogs six months of age and older, instructs owners to teach their dogs the basic commands essential to everyday living. These dogs learn to walk on a loose leash, come when called, sit, down, sit stay and down stay. These sessions work to build the bond between owners and their pets.
The Advanced Beginner class, for dogs completing Beginner Training, continues the work of beginner with more advanced commands and includes preparation for the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test. The CGC program is dedicated to encouraging responsible dog ownership. The New Jersey Legislature recently honored the AKC and praised the work of the CGC Program.
For more information or to register for classes contact Ann at 609-425-6080, email cmcdotc@comcast.net or download an application at www.cmcdotc.com. Training classes are held three times each year, with fall, winter and spring sessions.