Developed by the Association of Pet Dog Trainers* based on input from both dog owners and non-dog owners, shelter workers, and professional dog trainers, C.L.A.S.S. benefits pet owners, dogs, and everyone in the community! It is an educational program to promote training focused on the use of positive reinforcement and to strengthen relationships between humans and their canine companions.
C.L.A.S.S. is a three-level evaluation for dog owners to demonstrate the real-life skills of their dogs, as well as a knowledge assessment of the owners’ understanding of basic dog handling and care.
The three levels of the program are named after human university degree programs:
B.A. for Dogs™ (Bachelor’s level), the M.A. for Dogs™ (Master’s level), and the Ph.D. for Dogs™ (Doctorate level). The skills in each level vary in the level of difficulty and distractions.
At the B.A. level, we allow the use of treats as rewards after the completion of an exercise, and some of the “real life” skills that are assessed are waiting at the door, drop it, and settle.
In the M.A. level, dogs are asked to walk past several dogs of different sizes, breeds and genders, to wait in the car before exiting, and to allow the student to handle various parts of their body.
In the Ph.D. level, students must carry everyday objects such as a cardboard box or paper sack while walking their dogs on a loose leash, ask their dogs to back up, and have their dog demonstrate table manners during a simulated dinner session.
Each level also allows for two “bonus rounds” that students may elect to try or not with their dog.
***Please note that you must have completed a Basic Obedience course prior to signing up for this one.
General Information
Class meets once a week for 6 weeks
The cost of the class is Checks are payable to "AWS"
One primary handler is required
The dog MUST have completed a Basic Obedience class
Dogs should be up to date on vaccinations and in good health
Any cancellation of class will be on the AWS website or at 985-3244 x111
Materials Needed for Class
Collar and Leash
Treats and Rewards
*The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) is a professional organization of individual trainers who are committed to becoming better trainers through education. The APDT is dedicated to building better trainers through education, promoting dog-friendly methods and encouraging their use.
C.L.A.S.S. is a three-level evaluation for dog owners to demonstrate the real-life skills of their dogs, as well as a knowledge assessment of the owners’ understanding of basic dog handling and care.