Walking your dog is about more than simply getting from one place to another. A successful walk requires communication, leash skills, awareness of your surroundings, and the ability to work together when the environment gets busy.

In this 5-week course, you and your dog will start to build the skills needed for more enjoyable, cooperative walks while learning how to greet people and dogs appropriately, pass distractions, manage jumping, and coexist comfortably in public spaces.

We’ll start by building the foundation in a controlled environment and gradually add distractions as your skills develop, giving you and your dog an opportunity to practice these skills in real-world environments.

Loose leash walking is a learned skill—and a cooperative effort between both ends of the leash.

Is this class a good fit for your dog?

This course involves working around other dogs and people in an outdoor group setting. If your dog has a bite history, is severely reactive, or has significant concerns around other dogs or people, please reach out directly before registering.

We’re happy to discuss your dog’s individual needs and help determine whether this course is an appropriate fit or whether another training option would be a better starting point.

When?

Sundays, Oct. 11-Nov. 8, 2026
10:30-11:30 a.m.

• Weather-related make up class: Nov. 15

Location: The Point Pleasant Boro/Bay Head location will be sent after registration.

Class format and curriculum:

The class consists of 5 sessions (1 per week), rain or shine.

• Make up classes: There is one make up class included if due to a weather-related cancellation at the discretion of the instructor. Class is held rain or shine.

Throughout the 5-week course, you’ll learn:

• Leash handling, how to hold a leash
• Leash options and equipment
• Reinforcement placement
• Directional changes
• Building engagement and attention
• How to affectively pass people and/or dogs
• Appropriate greetings
• Working around dogs and other distractions
• Is your dog “ready to work”? Learn how
• Real-world walking skills, it’s more than a leash
• Learning how to read your dog’s behavior and adjust your approach

Space is limited to 8 dogs per class.

Cost

$230 for 5 weeks

Requirements

• For dogs 6 months and up.
  
  

Vaccination requirements:

• Distemper & Parvo
• Rabies
• Bordetella (recommended)

What’s required for class:

Additional details will be provided after registration.

• A great attitude and eagerness to have fun and learn
• Proper fitting harness that has 2 points of connection (front and back), collar or martingale collar
  • Note: no choke, slip, e-collar or prong collars are allowed in class. Please reach out if you have any questions about this so we can discuss your needs.
• 6-8′ leash
• A training pouch and plenty of mid to high-value treats