Introduction to Learning Theory. We introduce the student to Thordike’s Law of Effect, as well as Classical and Operant Conditioning.

Domestication of the Dog. How did we get the dog we know today? This section explores this question in detail.

Dominance Theory. We explore the myths of Dominance Theory and Pack Rules in this section and their consequences in a training environment.

Canine Development. This section covers the basic canine development stages, motor patterns, socialization and habituation.

Human Resources and Communication Skills for Humans and Dogs. This section will cover topics such as: how dogs learn, how people learn and presentation skills.

TTouch for Puppy Classes. In this section the student will learn more about canine body language and the observation thereof, as well as some basic TTouches.

Class Requirements and Instructor Protocol. Here the student will learn more about class requirements for a ThinkingPets Confi-Puppy class and instructor protocol.

Training. This section will explain the use of reward and no reward markers. Students will also learn various motivational training techniques, allowing the student to have several ‘back up’ positive training techniques if one method proves unsuccessful with any particular dog. We cover all the basic obedience exercises and how to teach them.

Puppy Class Rules. Students will learn the basic rules that apply to all ThinkingPets puppy classes, which are put in place to maintain the high standard of each affiliated school.

Behavioural Information. Students will learn, in detail, about behavioural information such as bite inhibition, resource guarding, frustration tolerance, etc.

Health, Nutrition, Grooming and Parasite Control. This section will deal with health issues, such as common canine diseases and vaccinations, grooming and parasite control. We also cover basic First Aid.

Information on Equipment. In this section students will learn about the different types of puppy/dog equipment they might come across and their uses. We discuss collars, leads, harnesses, calming bands and body wraps. We will also discuss equipment not allowed in puppy class, such as choke chains, shock collars, etc.