Barking Hills Country Club - Class Descriptions

At Barking Hills we think that working with your dog should be fun for you AND your dog. We emphasize positive methods for building a better understanding between you and your dog. It doesn't have to be painful for you or your dog - in fact it should be fun! We want you to enjoy living and working with your dog. A well behaved dog is a pleasure to own and is welcome in many places. Our goal is to help you help you dog to become a better citizen. Please go to our schedule of classes for more information.

Class sizes are restricted so that you and your dog can receive the attention you deserve. Whether you want a companion for your children or an obedience trial champion (or both!) we can help you achieve your goal.

We offer group classes and private lessons for those who need some extra help or who are unavailable to attend the group classes. Please call us, or stop by and visit a class at your convenience (without your dog). We are located at the Lebanon Plaza shopping center, less than 1/2 mile off of Route 78.

Class Descriptions

Photo Credit: "Keegan" (7 weeks) Close Encounters of the Furry Kind Classes for Puppies	Puppy Parenting Seminar Being a puppy parent is a tough job; but you can avoid many of the common errors and pitfalls that go along with puppy raising. Learn about the stages of your pup's development, what to expect, and how to create a safe home environment for your pup.
	Housetraining Help Teaching your puppy to potty outdoors -- when and where you want it to happen -- doesn't have to be hard. You'll learn our proven method for quickly housetraining puppies, and put an end to those indoor "accidents."
	Canine Troubleshooting OH NO! What have you gotten yourself into? Your adorable pup is turning into a pest -- nipping people, jumping up, stealing things and chewing everything in sight! Learn how to curb bad habits and teach your puppy or dog replacement behaviors you approve of. Please leave your dog at home but bring your questions.
	The Prodigal Canine Bold, outgoing, curious, clever. Dogs with these traits lead happier, safer lives -- and become better companions for you and your children. They learn faster, and adapt to change more easily. Mentally stimulated dogs don't steal and destroy things or dig in the yard. Find out how you can help your dog become a prodigy -- or perfect his prodigal personality. Strategies for creative play, problem solving and environment enrichment will be discussed. Learn how and why dogs play and explore -- and use it all to your advantage.
	Puppy Kindergarten For puppies 2 to 5 months old at the start of class. Lay the groundwork for a wonderful life with your new puppy. This Puppy Kindergarten class focuses on establishing good routines and habits, and building your pup's confidence. You will also build a foundation for good obedience training by giving your pup a head start on important behaviors like coming when called and walking nicely on lead.
	Puppy Playgroup! Socialization and exercise for puppies up to six months. Your puppy must have veterinary clearance and you need to bring a copy of their inoculation records for us to keep. Puppies running, jumping and playing with other puppies. Great for socializing and tiring out your puppy! Drop In
	Puppy Agility! Yes, you heard it. Agility for puppies 16 weeks to 7 months! Special contact obstacles - puppy size. Have your puppy learn the basics of agility, have a terrific time and stay safe. No weaves and the jump heights stay very low to keep those soft puppy bones safe.
Photo Credit: "Winnie & Ebony" Close Encounters of the Furry Kind Classes for the Family Pet	Basic Obedience for the Family Pet A puppy is a puppy for a few months but a dog is forever. Why not have the best relationship possible between you and your dog? For dogs 5 months and up at the start of class. Your dog will learn the basic obedience commands including sit, down, stay, come when called, walk on a loose lead, heeling as well as house and car manners.
	Remarkable Recalls Does your dog have selective hearing when you call? Are you tired of chasing your dog across the park? Does your dog come when HE feels like it? Then this is the class for you! All recall work, all the time!
	Wow! We're Walking! Loose lead lessons for persistent pullers! Do you feel like your arms are being stretched? Does is feel like your dog is in training for the Iditarod (sled dog race?) Does your dog lunge and pull towards other dogs? Would your dog like to run and greet everyone she sees, even if that involves dragging your through the mud? If you answered "yes" to any of the questions above then this class is just what your chiropractor ordered.
	The Prodigal Canine Bold, outgoing, curious, clever. Dogs with these traits lead happier, safer lives -- and become better companions for you and your children. They learn faster, and adapt to change more easily. Mentally stimulated dogs don't steal and destroy things or dig in the yard. Find out how you can help your dog become a prodigy -- or perfect his prodigal personality. Strategies for creative play, problem solving and environment enrichment will be discussed. Learn how and why dogs play and explore -- and use it all to your advantage.
	Canine Troubleshooting OH NO! What have you gotten yourself into? Your adorable pup is turning into a pest -- nipping people, jumping up, stealing things and chewing everything in sight! Learn how to curb bad habits and teach your puppy or dog replacement behaviors you approve of. Please leave your dog at home but bring your questions.
	Intermediate Obedience for the Family Pet This class will focus on communication, attention, and teaching your dog how to learn. Participants will learn to use reward markers (verbal cues) and targeting as important tools in improving existing obedience skills and developing new ones. New skills will include an emergency drop/down (with the dog and handler in motion), stand for examination and grooming, and ‘go to your place.’ Dog/handler teams will build knowledge, as well as their relationship, and leave class with valuable skills that will last a lifetime.
"Dax, Storm, Tuka & Keegan" Close Encounters of the Furry Kind Canine Good Citizen	Canine Good Citizen Class Learn and practice the skills necessary to pass the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen test. This five-week course covers each of the 10 exercises included on the exam, and offers practical advice to help you avoid costly handler errors. The Canine Good Citizen test will be given at the last class. DUE TO NEW AKC FEES, THIS CLASS IS NOT CURRENTLY BEING OFFERED
	Canine Good Citizen Examination All breeds and mixed breeds can earn the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen certificate. Call for an appointment - we will not test any unscheduled dog. Look here for the 10 exercises required. DUE TO NEW AKC FEES, THIS CLASS IS NOT CURRENTLY BEING OFFERED
Photo Credit: "Tuka" recycling John Chester Fun with Your Dog Photo Credit: "Rascal" John Chester Photo Credit: Donna & "Baron" John Chester Zella Chievous RN First Barking Hills dog to achieve a AKC Rally Title She got her Rally Novice Title on January 2nd, 2005	Game Night Okay, so I know sounds crazy but where else can you take your dog on a Saturday night? Come join us and play games with your dog. No special training needed just the ability to relax and have fun with your dog. You need to bring a copy of their inoculation records for us to keep - no dogs are permitted in the building without it.
	Pet Tricks Every dog should have a few "stupid pet tricks" in his/her repertoire! Counting, shaking hands, jumping through hoops, dog bowling, find the treat, and wipe your nose are just some of the tricks your dog can learn. Fun stuff for you and your dog! Great for dogs interested in Pet Assisted Therapy.
	Lights, Camera, Action! Have you ever wondered if your dog could be a star? Find out what it is really like to have a working "show biz" dog. The Barking Hills Animal All Stars have been seen for seven seasons on Saturday Night Live as well as Conan O'Brien and One Life to Live as well as numerous commercials including Home Depot, Claritin, Citizen's Bank, Lowe's, Pedigree, Subway and Verizon. You may have seen them on the cover of US News and World Report or on the Purina Beneful Bag.
	Rally Level 1 Rally Level 2 It’s the latest and greatest in dog sports! An AKC event as of January 1, 2005. Use all the skills and communication you and your dog have developed in an organized event. You might even win prizes or earn a title! Rally is low-pressure, lots of fun and a great way to spend time with your dog. The courses cover the specific skills needed to participate in each level of Rally Obedience; participants will hone their skills, learn the rules, and, in general, have a great time!.
	Introduction to Agility Intermediate Agility One of the fastest growing sports in the United States. Not only fun and healthy for your dog - but for you too! For dogs and handlers who have never tried agility and for started dogs. Your dog needs to have taken a beginning level obedience class. We'll start running courses at the very first class! At the Frenchtown location - all classes will be held outdoors so please dress appropriately.
	Carting: Have kids and a big dog? Do you do Pet Assisted Therapy? How about gardening? Any size dog can learn to pull a cart or wagon - from Newfoundlands to Yorkshire Terriers! A great, fun way to spend time with your dog and develop a useful skill. Have your large dog pull the kids, garden stuff, groceries or firewood. Have your smaller dog entertain at nursing homes or hospitals. Any size dog may enjoy parades and exhibitions! A fun and unique activity for your dog.
	Introduction to Flyball For dogs who LOVE their tennis balls - fast and fun! Dogs of all sizes and breeds will love the fast pace and a chance to play with their favorite toy! Your dog needs to have taken a beginning obedience class. Indoors. Six Sessions
	Lure Coursing Fun and fast for all sizes. Lure Coursing is letting your dog do what comes naturally - chase stuff. The area is completely fenced and dogs who have never tried coursing are invited. Lure coursing is lots of fun but the dogs run hard so please check with your veterinarian.
Photo Credit: "Storm" & Antonio Ty Sanders Pet Assisted Therapy	Pet Assisted Therapy Have you ever thought about volunteering with your dog? This class prepares dog and handler teams to visit chronic and acute care facilities including hospitals, rehabilitation centers and nursing homes. These classes will help prepare dog/handler teams to take the Dogs In Service certification examinations as well as the national certifications offered by The Delta Society, Therapy Dogs Inc. and Therapy Dogs International. Your dog must have taken a Basic Obedience class and, before it can be certified, it must be at least one year of age.
"Mickey" Classes for Competition	Competition Classes (3 levels) Novice Open Utility If basic training is fun, how much more fun would it be to compete with your dog?! For dogs and handlers who have completed any beginners class who wish to train to compete in obedience trials. Emphasis on handling, teamwork and motivating your dog.
	Introduction to Agility Intermediate Agility One of the fastest growing sports in the United States. Not only fun and healthy for your dog - but for you too! For dogs and handlers who have never tried agility and for started dogs. Your dog needs to have taken a beginning level obedience class. We'll start running courses at the very first class! At the Frenchtown location - all classes will be held outdoors so please dress appropriately.
	Show Handling Classes Whether you are showing your dog in conformation (breed) yourself or having a handler take out your dog - give your dog the winning edge by having him/her comfortable and secure in all aspects of the breed ring. Learn how to show your dog to his/her best! Instructor: Denise Garber
	Junior Showmanship Juniors (under 18) who wish to compete in the Junior Showmanship classes. Emphasis on handling skills, dog structure, breed specifics and ring procedures. Learn how to show your dog to his/her best! You must bring proof of your dog's inoculations for our records. Instructor: Denise Garber