This basic manners class is for dogs (5 months and older) and owners looking to learn core foundation skills — great for the beginner or as a refresher for those seeking an opportunity to learn new and advanced skills.

The Liberated Pup LLC uses reward-based techniques aligned with the most current behavioral theory, guiding dogs and their owners to a greater understanding and closer relationship.

When?

Wednesdays, April 2-May 14, 2025

• Class 1 (orientation) on April 2 is from 6-7 p.m. at the Pt. Boro Library meeting room
• Classes 2-6 are held 5-6 p.m. at Riverfront Park in Point Pleasant.
• No class: April 23, 2025

Class format and curriculum:

The class consists of 6 sessions (1 per week), rain or shine.

• Session 1: Is for humans only (orientation)
• Sessions 2-6: with your dogs.
• Make up classes: There is one make up class included if due to a weather-related cancellation. Class is held rain or shine.

Throughout the 6-week course you’ll learn:

• Touch cue (disengagement/casual recall)
• Leave it cue
• Emergency recall
• Name game (let’s make your dog’s name worth listening to!)
• Basic leash-handling skills and loose leash walking strategies
• Mat work (great for teaching your dog to settle)
• Intro on how to reduce jumping
• Impulse control strategies
  • Built in auto-stays, reducing impulse in daily life activities such as taking food from your hand, going through doors, and getting out of the car.
• Resource guarding prevention
• Sit and down refreshers
• We’ll also cover the basics of learning theory, dog body language, enrichment, and so much more!

Space is limited to 9 dogs per class.

Requirements

Vaccination requirements:

• Distemper & Parvo
• Bordetella
• Rabies

What’s required for class:

Additional details will be provided after registration and during orientation.

• Proper fitting harness that has 2 points of connection (front and back)
  • Note: no choke, slip or prong collars are allowed in class. Please reach out if you have any concerns or questions so we can help you before the start of class
• 6-8′ leash (no retractables)
• Small blanket, towel, rug or flat mat
• A training pouch and plenty of mid to high-value treats