Puppy Head Start is for pups 17 weeks to six months of age. It is an introduction to the skills your dog will need to be ready for more advanced Gun Dog or Obedience training. We have found that people often don't know what to emphasize in their early training and many puppies are poorly started. Some people don't do anything at all thinking that at least they will not be doing the wrong things. For the Hunter, Head Start will help you and your pup develop into a successful hunting and retrieving team. For the Non Hunter, the focus of training will be obedience and the development of an enjoyable family companion. 

The cost is $385.00 for the two week program, due when you drop off your pup. Dogs stay at the kennel during their training and are housed in individual runs. We feed Purina Pro Plan Performance diet which is a top rated dog food and is suitable to meet the needs of your active, growing puppy. Your one on one, pre scheduled, owner training session is included in the fee.  The pups are worked individually and their training starts on the day following their arrival.

At the end of two weeks when you come to pick up your dog, we will spend approximately one hour working with you and your dog together

Puppy Head Start Obedience Training Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my dog forget me while being away from me so long during training? Dogs have a very long memory and six weeks to three months is not a long time for them. You will also be coming up to the kennel at scheduled intervals during the training to work with your dog and the trainer. Once your dog smells you and hears your voice he/she will recognize you and be happy to see you.

Will training change my dog's personality? Training changes your dog's behavior, but not their personality. Training helps organize your dog's thought processes so that he/she can be more self controlled and respond to commands.

Will training correct my dog's undesirable habits such as digging, destructive chewing or nuisance barking? Training teaches the dog to respond to commands when you are present. It does not teach the dog to behave in a certain manner when you are absent. Digging and chewing are best addressed by confining your dog in a crate or dog run when you are unable to supervise him. Nuisance barking is best controlled with an electronic bark collar which picks up the vibration of the dog's vocal cords when he barks. The intensity of the bark collar can be adjusted to a suitable level for the dog.

What vaccinations are required for kennel admittance?